Discover ‘The Magic of Middle-earth’ at an exciting new exhibition at The Novium Museum featuring a  magical treasure trove of objects and artworks celebrating the epic fantasy novels ‘The Hobbit’ and ‘The Lord of the Rings’.

Dedicated to the incredible fantasy worlds brought to life by J.R.R. Tolkien and the generations of creators his writing has influenced, The Magic of Middle-earth will take visitors on a journey beyond the books to explore that expansive artistic legacy.

The exhibition features over 200 incredible artworks and objects from across the decades including:

• A rare first edition copy of The Hobbit from 1937;
• Dramatic models and dioramas including The Battle of Helms Deep;
• Concept artwork, theatre, music and movie-inspired memorabilia and prop replicas;
• Stunning paintings of dragons, Ents and Elves and artwork illustrating Tolkien’s deep passion for the natural world;
• Middle-earth inspired video games and LEGO sets;.
• A soundscape including music by Howard Shore, who composed, orchestrated, conducted and produced the music of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy (2001 – 2003) and ‘The Hobbit’ film series (2012 – 2014).

The exhibition includes gallery interactives in the ‘Hobbiton’ family area: take a selfie in a Hobbit chair and experience the surprise of an animatronic version of Smaug the Dragon! ‘Little halflings’ can get into character with fancy dress costumes and follow a Mystical Quest trail through the museum.

Relaxed SEN Sessions are available on selected dates throughout the run of the exhibition. Our relaxed sessions are aimed at people with autism and other needs, as well as their families and carers to be able to enjoy The Magic of Middle Earth in a relaxed atmosphere with limited numbers. All background sound, including Smaug the animatronic dragon, will be turned off for the duration of this session.

The exhibition is open Saturday, 1 April – Sunday, 24 September 2023

Admission: £4 adults, £2.50 children and £12 family of five (maximum 2 adults)

Book tickets for The Magic of Middle-earth

Please note The Novium Museum is open Tuesday – Friday 10am – 4.30pm, Saturday 10am – 5pm. Closed Sunday and Mon