THE 'magic of Middle-earth' is coming to Worcester as part of a Lord of the Rings exhibition which organisers hope will leave visitors spellbound.

The free exhibition is set to enchant visitors at Worcester City Art Gallery and Museum between Saturday, July 9 and Saturday, September 17.

It is something of a homecoming, perhaps, as Tolkien's Middle-earth was itself inspired by the landscape of Worcestershire, including the Malvern Hills which the author visited. 

Interest in Tolkien's world has peaked in recent weeks with anticipation building for 'The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power',  an upcoming American fantasy television series produced by Amazon Studios.

The display features one of the UK's 'finest collections of artworks and objects relating to Tolkien’s fantastical world', on show in the region for the first time.

Highlights include dressing up and taking a selfie in a Hobbit chair, a children's craft activity area and following a Mystical Quest family trail through the museum. Organisers have described the exhibition as a 'must see' for Tolkien fans.

The Magic of Middle-earth has been described as 'a celebration of the incredible fantasy world which has inspired so many' and a 'magical treasure trove of over 200 rare books, objects, and artworks to explore, providing family fun for all ages, from little halflings to wizened wizards'.

The exhibition includes first edition copies of the books, 'incredible' artworks and objects from across the decades including paintings of Dragons, Ents and Elves, dramatic models and dioramas including The Battle Of Helms Deep, and Middle-earth inspired video games and Lego sets.

Regarded as the “father” of modern fantasy literature, J. R. R. Tolkien has inspired creative minds of all types, from artists, musicians and film makers to environmentalists and game designers.

Tolkien himself took inspiration from Worcestershire’s landscape and was a regular visitor to the Malvern Hills in the 1930s with fellow writer C.S. Lewis.

This exhibition comes from collector Matt Fox, who has previously broken visitor attendance records around the country with his Star Wars-themed exhibition May The Toys Be With You which was on show at Worcester City Art Gallery & Museum in 2019.

Mr Fox said: “I want to really transport visitors with this exhibition and allow those who enjoy immersing themselves in Middle-earth that indulgence.

"This is the first exhibition to bring together and make sense of Tolkien’s cultural legacy. For me, it’s a feast for the imagination and I’m really happy to be able to share it with others.”

'Special guests' are said to be visiting the museum for the official opening of the exhibition. Visitors are also encouraged to come in their own Middle-earth-inspired costumes.

The Magic of Middle-earth is free and open Monday – Saturday 10.30am – 4.30pm from July 9 to September 17.