As a self-proclaimed nerd, Social News Reporter Alice Sjoberg didn't know what to expect when she arrived at the Sarehole Festival in Birmingham, but she was quickly blown away by the immersive experience.
Discovering the Festival
Alice admits to being a huge nerd, drawn to the worlds of films, TV shows, and literature. When she learned about a Lord of the Rings festival in Birmingham, she knew she had to attend. She discovered the Sarehole Festival in Hall Green through a random TikTok video from the Tolkien Society, which organized the event. The video had only a few hundred likes two weeks before the event, so she didn't have high hopes. Few people were talking about it online, so expectations were low.
Affordable Tickets and Easy Access
With tickets priced at just £8 for adults and £4 for children, Alice and her Lord of the Rings-obsessed boyfriend decided to pre-book tickets and head to Sarehole Mill for the day. They arrived 15 minutes before the festival opened and were guided to organized parking in the Shire Country Park for an additional £5. Walking across the road to Sarehole Mill, they were surprised to find a line of people waiting, many dressed as characters from the Lord of the Rings universe.
Entering the Shire
As a medieval horn marked the festival's opening, organizers asked attendees to form two lines: one for pre-booked tickets and one for on-site purchases. Surprisingly, everyone stayed in the same line, having all pre-booked. Despite the long line, they entered within five minutes and were immediately transported to the Shire, thanks to musicians playing by the entryway and attendees in elaborate costumes. One person had even created a silicone pet dragon that moved along his arm.
Exploring the Tents
The first tent they visited provided information about J.R.R. Tolkien's connection to Birmingham, particularly Sarehole, which inspired the Hobbits' home, the Shire. Numerous vendors sold handcrafted items, including replica weapons from the movies, jewelry, and clothing. Alice's boyfriend purchased a replica of Bilbo's map of Middle Earth for £5, and Alice bought two rings for £1 each and a hand-bound leather journal with handmade paper.
Entertainment and Activities
Hourly talks featured storytellers and experts explaining Tolkien's Birmingham connections. However, Alice and her boyfriend were more interested in other entertainment, such as Fantasy Flute's Laura, who performed beautiful renditions of Lord of the Rings and Hobbit film soundtracks. The Raven Company put on fighting shows demonstrating weapons from the films and medieval periods, including swords, axes, and spears.
A Memorable Day
Overall, Alice and her boyfriend had a great day out, and she believes most other visitors did too, as everyone they passed had a big smile on their face. The festival successfully transported attendees to the world of Middle Earth, celebrating Tolkien's legacy in Birmingham.
