Phil and Sam Kilv, self-proclaimed fans of J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings," have invested £500,000 and seven years of work to construct their own Hobbit-inspired village. Located near the Cambrian Mountains in west Wales, the properties offer a retreat designed to bring the magical world of Middle-earth to life for holidaymakers.
The couple, who have been passionate about Tolkien's novels since childhood, transformed a 24-acre site into a unique holiday destination. The village, named Coed Y Ddraig, features one and two-bedroom cottages with curved architecture, log burners, and handcrafted interiors. Some accommodations include amenities like four-poster beds and flat-screen televisions, aiming to blend fantasy with modern comforts.
Phil, 60, and Sam, 53, previously renovated an old cow shed into a pirate-themed inn before embarking on their "Lord of the Rings" project. Their inspiration stems in part from Tolkien's documented appreciation for Wales and the Welsh language. Local blacksmiths were employed to create authentic bed frames and thrones for the hillside dwellings.
Among the themed cottages are Pen Y Bag, designed to evoke the year 1601 of the Third Age according to the Shire calendar, and Rhiw Ty'r Maes, a one-bedroom house offering an immersive Hobbit experience with amenities such as a 60-inch smart TV, walk-in shower, Wi-Fi, and underfloor heating. The third cottage, Crucywel, overlooks rolling hills and is described as being "something out of a movie."
The adult-only Hobbit homes are now available for hire, with prices starting at £180 per night. The couple hopes to offer guests a unique and memorable experience, drawing on the folklore and landscape of Wales. Phil stated that they believe "Lord of the Rings" fans will appreciate the dedication and detail put into the creation of the village, which they describe as a "labour of love."