Game of Thrones Filming Locations in Northern Ireland: Guide and Itinerary

Winterfell, the Kingsroad, the Iron Islands… Much of the cult series was filmed in Northern Ireland. Visit the Game of Thrones filming locations, This is a journey through a spectacular region, encompassing rugged coastlines, ancient forests, and castles, all less than an hour from Belfast. Based in the UK and Ireland since 2012, we organize these tailor-made trips. Here are the must-see places, how to visit them, and our suggested itinerary.

In short: The main Game of Thrones filming locations in Northern Ireland are the Dark Hedges (the Kingsroad), Castle Ward (Winterfell), Ballintoy Harbour (the Iron Islands), Cushendun Caves, Tollymore Forest, and Downhill Beach. Don't miss the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge, with its original sets and costumes. Allow 2 to 3 days from Belfast, ideally by car.

Why Game of Thrones was filmed in Northern Ireland

The production established its main studios in Belfast, at Paint Hall Studios, now known as Titanic Studios. It then took advantage of the region's diverse landscapes, all close to one another: rugged coastlines, forests, moors, and castles. Thus, in just a few hours' drive, one could travel from the icy North to the Iron Islands.

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The must-see Game of Thrones filming locations

The Dark Hedges, the royal road

This avenue of ancient beech trees with intertwined branches, near Ballymoney, has become the most famous image of the series: it is the royal road taken by Arya in season 2. Note that the road is now closed to cars, and it is best to come early in the morning to avoid the crowds.

Castle Ward, Winterfell

In County Down, the Castle Ward estate served as the setting for Winterfell in the first season. The castle courtyard and tower are easily recognizable. Furthermore, the site offers costumed archery experiences in the courtyard where Bran learned to shoot.

Ballintoy Harbour, Iron Islands

On the Antrim coast, this small fishing port served as the equivalent of Pyke on the Iron Islands. It is here that Theon Greyjoy returns home. Furthermore, the site is just minutes from the rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede and the Giant's Causeway.

The Cushendun Caves

These sea caves were the setting for one of the most memorable scenes in season 2: the birth of Melisandre's shadow. They can be visited freely, near the charming village of Cushendun.

Tollymore Forest

At the foot of the Mourne Mountains, this forest appears in the very first episode: it's where the Starks find the direwolf pups. It was also used for several scenes beyond the Wall.

Other places not to be missed

• Downhill Strand and the temple of Mussenden: the beach of Peyredragon; ;
• Larrybane's career, near Ballintoy: Renly Baratheon's camp; ;
• Inch Abbey Riverrun, where Robb Stark is proclaimed King in the North; ;
• the Mourne mountains : several landscapes of the wilderness.

The Game of Thrones Studio Tour from Banbridge

About 40 minutes from Belfast, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour is located in the studios where part of the series was filmed. There you'll discover real sets, such as the Great Hall of Winterfell, as well as original costumes, weapons, and props. It's the perfect outing for fans, especially on a rainy day. Remember to book your tickets in advance, particularly during the summer months. More information is available at [website address]. official Northern Ireland tourism website.

Our 3-day Game of Thrones filming locations itinerary

• Day 1: Belfast, the Titanic district and Titanic Studios, then the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge.
• Day 2: The Antrim coast: Cushendun Caves, Ballintoy Caves, Larrybane Caves, Carrick-a-Rede Caves, Giant's Causeway and Dark Hedges.
• Day 3: County Down: Castle Ward, Inch Abbey and Tollymore Forest.

Finally, this tour combines very well with a longer trip to Ireland. Discover our guide to...’Northern Ireland, our ideas for visit Belfast and our road trip from Titanic to Connemara. Do you enjoy filming? Also read our guides on... Outlander filming locations and Harry Potter in Scotland.

A Tommy Shelby fan? Check out our guide to... Peaky Blinders filming locations, between Birmingham, the Black Country and Liverpool.

Discover all our guides to trip to the filming locations in the United Kingdom and Ireland, film by film.

Frequently Asked Questions about Game of Thrones Filming Locations

Do you need a car to visit the filming locations?

This is the most convenient option, as the sites are spread between the Antrim coast and County Down. Alternatively, guided day trips depart from Belfast and Dublin.

Can the filming locations be visited from Dublin?

Yes. Belfast is only about a 2-hour drive from Dublin. However, to truly enjoy the sights, we recommend spending at least two nights in Northern Ireland.

What is the best time to go?

From May to September, the days are long and the Antrim coast is stunning. However, the Dark Hedges and the Giant's Causeway are more crowded. Spring and autumn are quieter.

How much does a Game of Thrones trip to Northern Ireland cost?

Expect to pay from €600 per person for 3 days including accommodation, car and assistance, excluding flights and Studio Tour tickets. The price varies depending on the season and type of accommodation.

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