EPIC fantasy adventure The Lord of the Rings is expected to dwarf other attractions at a huge new UK theme park.
It would mean fans of the blockbuster movies would be able to enjoy an immersive experience for the first time.
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Movie giant Universal has signed a deal to build a 476-acre resort in Bedfordshire, modelled on its fun parks in Orlando and Hollywood.
And the company has logged a number of trademarks for use in the UK including Lord of the Rings and Middle-earth — where author JRR Tolkien set his fantasy novels.
The theme park is set to open in 2031 — 30 years after the first in a trilogy of Lord of the Rings adventures were brought to the big screen.
And attractions could include a rollercoaster ride featuring wizard Gandalf and recreations of the Shire home of Hobbits Bilbo and Frodo Baggins and the Green Dragon Inn.
A source said yesterday: “It’s really exciting.
“Lord of the Rings is a classic and by happy chance the park is due to open on the 30th anniversary of the release of The Fellowship of the Ring.
“JRR Tolkien’s world is so immersive and magical the possibilities really are endless when it comes to the options on the table.”
Tolkien’s classic novels were first published in 1954 and 1955.
Three blockbuster films — The Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers and The Return of the King — directed by Peter Jackson — came out in 2001, 2002 and 2003.
They went on to gross more than £2billion worldwide and The Return of the King won 11 Oscars, including Best Picture and Director gongs.
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