Barliman Butterbur is the proprietor of inn called The Prancing Pony, in the town of Bree. The Pony boasts the best ale in the area, and many Brandybucks from the Shire make excursions there just for the ale. It is no simple task maintaining an inn with such repute, especially in troubled times, but Butterbur is equal to the task ? with the help of his hobbit-assistants, Nob and Bob.
Absent-minded and distracted, Butterbur is always in a rush, often forgetting what he is about. To some this makes him appear a dullard, but nothing could be further from the truth. He has a shrewd mind and sharp wit, though it sometimes takes a little longer for him to catch on than it might for others.
Barliman Butterbur is introduced to readers of J.R.R. Tolkien?s The Lord of the Rings when Frodo and his companions arrive at The Prancing Pony, seeking Gandalf. He lends aid to the hobbits and the mysterious Ranger called Strider when the Nazg?l of Sauron come calling. In The Lord of the Rings Online?: Shadows of Angmar?, Butterbur can be found at The Prancing Pony in Bree, where he introduces players to Strider and offers them tasks. Players of LOTRO can also speak with him if they wish to buy a nice, rich, foamy ale.
