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Carol Hopkinson and Karl WraggThe couple who built a hotel in the style of Hobbit holes
Country:
 Great Britain |
Content:
- Hobbit Hideaway Hotel in England
- Family-Inspired Home to Legendary Destination
- Community Support and Funding
- Bringing Joy and Inspiration
- Beyond the Shire
Hobbit Hideaway Hotel in England
Carol Hopkinson and Karl Reagh, a couple with a passion for J.R.R. Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, have created a unique hobbit hole hotel in Liverton, East Cleveland. It is the only place in New Zealand, excluding the "Lord of the Rings" movie set, where visitors can experience a hobbit hole as imagined by Tolkien.
Family-Inspired Home to Legendary Destination
The genesis of the project lies with the couple's children: Poppy (1), Holly (2), Rosie (3), Charlie (13), and Daisy (15). Carol and Karl initially envisioned a hobbit hole hideaway on their Liverton campsite for their family, but it soon grew into something much grander. Inspired by the cozy and snug homes of the Shire, they transformed the former Bunnyland area of Golden Hill Farm into a one-of-a-kind hotel.
Community Support and Funding
"When we started the campsite, we wanted to create a place where families and especially children could enjoy getting back to nature," Carol said. "We've strived to create an environment where the wildlife is king, and our new development keeps in the same spirit."
The couple received £10,000 from Redcar and Cleveland Council's Coastal Community Fund to build the first of seven planned hobbit holes. Construction on the underground cottage began several weeks ago. Each hobbit hole will feature two bedrooms, a living area, cooking space, and a wood-burning stove, as well as wheelchair access.
Bringing Joy and Inspiration
Carol and Karl plan to offer the hobbit holes for stays by children from Zoe's Place Children's Hospice and other organizations through the charity Five Lamps. "This is a really exciting project, and we were delighted to be able to play a small part in helping to make it happen," said Steve Goldsway, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities.
"We are very excited to be opening our first hobbit hole," Carol added. "It's thanks to our family and supporters and the organizations that helped us secure the funding to make this happen."
Beyond the Shire
In addition to expanding the number of hobbit holes to seven in the near future, Carol and Karl plan to build a replica of the hobbit pub, the Green Dragon. A three-night stay in a hobbit hole costs £650, a week-long stay is £850, and a two-week stay is £1450.
