Southport Tolkien Trail : All you need to know

A new trail arrives in Southport town centre this June, with activities celebrating the works of fantasy author J.R.R. Tolkien.

Fantasy fans, families, and newly formed fellowships can enjoy the new Southport Tolkien Trail between 21 June and 27 September.

The trail spans nine unique locations, each celebrating all things The Hobbit and Lord of The Rings.

Nick McCoy, owner of Harp Coffee and Games, is organising the trail to run alongside the The Magic Middle-earth exhibition at The Atkinson, which also launches on Saturday 21 June.

The trail is best enjoyed with multiple visits to the town centre, as different activities take place throughout the three-month period.

How to take part

Southport Tolkien Trail maps can be picked up at either HARP Coffee and Games or The Atkinson from Saturday 21 June.

People are then invited to visit at least four of the participating venues and collect a stamp at each one, either by taking part in a specific activity or purchasing an item from a business (each location is different).

The first 50 people to collect four stamps can choose from a selection of limited edition Lord of the Rings badges by presenting their trail maps at Make It Workshop.

The nine town centre businesses taking part in the Southport Tolkien Trail are :

• Harp Coffee and Games
• The Plant Room
• Legacy Records
• Tap and Bottles
• Make it Workshop
• The Atkinson
• Parkinson's Books
• Southport Bijou Cinema
• Ricketys Vintage Store

What's On

There is plenty for everyone to enjoy on the first Southport Tolkien Trail!

Magic Of Middle-earth is a brand-new exhibition at The Atkinson and will feature an extensive collection of Tolkien memorabilia.  Visitors can pick up a stamp here whilst enjoying a curated selection of paintings, sculptures, Lego sets, and family activities.

Harp Coffee and Games stock a wide range of Tolkien-themed board games, books, and activities that can be enjoyed over a coffee or a snack.

Tap and Bottles have collaborated with Southport Brewery and will be offering a special version of their beer Eagles Dare for a limited time, as well as two other special Middle-earth beers brewed with other local breweries.

Participating shops will all have themed gifts in stock, such as Legacy Records offering Lord of the Rings soundtracks and merch.

Please check with individual venues on availability before your visit, as some products and activities are only available for a limited time.

Later in September, Harp Coffee and Games will celebrate Bilbo Baggins birthday by hosting a three-day party, complete with themed games, cakes, and snacks (including Lembas bread!).

• Follow Harp Coffee and Games on Facebook and Instagram for up-to-date news
• Contact Nick nick@harpcoffeeandgames.co.uk for any further enquiries
• Visit The Magic of Middle Earth at The Atkinson