It is a local legend that the rolling hills and mist-covered woods of the Ribble Valley served as the inspiration for Middle-earth. J.R.R. Tolkien was a frequent visitor to Stonyhurst College during the 1940s while he was writing The Lord of the Rings, often staying at a guest house on the college grounds.
Today, you can walk the Tolkien Trail, a 5.5-mile circular route that starts and ends in the charming village of Hurst Green.
Today, you can walk the Tolkien Trail, a 5.5-mile circular route that starts and ends in the charming village of Hurst Green.
🗺️ Route Details
- Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)
- Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
- Difficulty: Easy/Moderate (can be muddy in winter!)
- Starting Point: The Shireburn Arms, Hurst Green (BB7 9QJ)
📍 Key Highlights
1. The Village of Hurst Green
Start your journey in this picture-postcard village. As you walk past the stone cottages, it isn’t hard to imagine the quaint, peaceful atmosphere of The Shire.
2. Stonyhurst College
This magnificent Grade I listed building is the centerpiece of the walk. Tolkien’s son, Michael, taught here, and the author spent long periods in the college’s library. Look out for the “New Hall” wings—many believe the architecture and the dark, sweeping woods nearby influenced the descriptions of Buckland or even Minas Tirith.
3. The River Ribble & River Hodder
The trail follows the confluence of these two rivers. Crossing the Cromwell’s Bridge (a packhorse bridge dating back to 1561) feels like stepping directly into a fantasy novel. It is said that the ferry crossings and rivers in the Valley inspired the Brandywine River in the books.
4. Hacking Hall
As you walk along the river, you’ll see Hacking Hall. Local lore suggests this 17th-century house was the inspiration for the Old Grange or a dwelling in the Marish.
🍽️ Where to Refuel
No “Middle-earth” adventure is complete without “Second Breakfast” or a hearty pint.
- The Shireburn Arms: A classic 17th-century inn. Perfect for a post-walk lunch by the fire. (Dog-friendly!)
- Millie’s Coffee Shop: Located in Hurst Green, ideal for a quick caffeine hit and a slice of homemade cake before you set off.
🥾 Top Tips for Your Walk
- Footwear: The sections near the River Ribble can get extremely boggy. Waterproof hiking boots are a must.
- Parking: There is a small car park in Hurst Green near the village hall, but it fills up fast on weekends. Arrive early!
- Respect the College: While you can admire Stonyhurst College from the public footpaths, remember it is a working school. Stick to the marked trails.
🌿 Why it’s “Middle-earth”
While Tolkien never explicitly confirmed the Ribble Valley was the only inspiration for The Shire, the names in the area tell a story. You’ll find names like “Bag End” and “Underhill” scattered across the local maps, and the misty silhouette of Pendle Hill on the horizon provides the perfect “Lonely Mountain” vibe.
Check our [Explore] page for walks, adventures and places to discover in the Ribble Valley.
