A new global TV series spotlighting Manchester as a food, drink and travel destination has launched, fronted by The Lord of the Rings stars Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan.
Billy and Dom Eat the World follows the actors, known for their roles as Bilbo Baggins’ hobbit sidekicks Merry and Pippin in the film franchise, on a ‘hobbit-style’ approach to travel, with the duo eating their way across the globe.
For one dedicated episode, the pair explore Manchester’s vibrant food scene, uncovering hidden gems and iconic attractions.
Filming took place over five days in October 2024, visiting locations including Afflecks, where they sampled ice cream from Ginger’s Comfort Emporium, poured drinks at UK top 50 cocktail bar Stray, and tried their hand at cooking the iconic ‘rice and three’ curry at Northern Quarter hidden gem, Kabana [ed’s top tip for future hobbit travellers – Yadgar is better].
The pair also visited Antonelli, the UK’s first ice cream cone factory that has been making waffle cones in Manchester since 1960; took a trip to viral sensation Gooey, known for its indulgent desserts, and got hands-on making a classic Manchester Tart with the chefs at the Kimpton Clocktower Hotel.
The trip was also an opportunity for Dom, who grew up in Stockport, to see the city in a new light and reconnect with family and friends.
In a departure from the food theme, the pair also take a trip to Manchester United’s stadium for a behind-the-scenes tour and visit Salford menswear factory, Private White VC, to costume up for an Oasis-themed photoshoot with local photographer Mark Gregson during the show.
Monaghan said: “Manchester, where all my family hail from, is of course a place so close to my emotional heart, and I was so happy to see it shown for the vibrant, exciting, immersive, inclusive city it is. With a fantastic food and drinks scene and a welcome that asks you to visit it often and over again.”
Boyd added: “What an amazing time we had in Manchester. I had only been a few times for short visits, but getting to spend some quality time there was very special. The feeling of community and pride is palpable, no wonder so much great food, music and theatre comes from there. Such a beautiful place to walk around, hear about the past and plans for the future. I will definitely be back to make more memories in Manchester.”
The production was secured by Marketing Manchester, the promotional agency for Greater Manchester, and produced by Dash Pictures, an Emmy award-nominated TV production agency with a global distribution network.
The 50-minute episode is one of an eight-part series featuring destinations such as California, Costa Rica, Japan, and Texas. The show has already aired on platforms including Flavour Network Canada, Now TV Hong Kong, and SBS Australia, and will premiere in the UK on Virgin UHD TV on 16 June at 20:10.
