Are you visiting Northern Ireland for the day and want to hit all the Game of Thrones sites? Ok, let’s do this!
There is just one thing you are going to need before we get started, and that is a car! Without having your own wheels it will be next to impossible to visit ALL the GOT sites on this list.
If renting a car is out of the question, the next best thing is to join a tour! But more on tours later.
![Game of Thrones Sites in Ireland Worth Visiting](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Game-of-Thrones-sites-in-Ireland.jpg)
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Game Of Thrones Sites Actually Worth Visiting in Northern Ireland
First, let’s be clear on the must-visit Game of Thrones locations and a couple that you can skip.
Must Visit Sites 🗡️
- The Dark Hedges (Road to King’s Landing)
- Dunluce Castle (Castle Greyjoy)
- Ballintoy Harbour (Pyke Harbour)
- Cushendun Caves – (Shadow Creature Birth Site)
- Inch Abbey
- Castle Ward (Winterfell)
- Haunted Forest of Tollymore Park
- Downhill Beach (Dragonstone)
Sites You Can Skip ⚔️
- Larrybane Quarry also known as Renly Baratheon’s Camp! Not far off from the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.
- Portstewart Strand is where Ellaria and the Sand Snakes plotted to go against the Lannisters. A beautiful beach in County Antrim.
Best Order to Visit Each Film Location
If you only have the day to see all these sites you want to visit in the order that will make the most sense logistically.
I found the best way to visit each was to start south of Belfast in the Tollymore Forest Park and then work your way up the coast.
Here is a map you can download for yourself that already has each site numbered in the order to visit.
📲 Grab The Downloadable Itinerary Map
This Google Map has all the site locations pre-pinned as well as the infamous “10 Doors of Thrones“
#1. Visit the Haunted Tollymore Forest
Remember the scene where the Starks meet their baby dire wolves? It was all filmed at Altavaddy Bridge here in Tollymore Forest Park!
Tollymore Forest Park is also where they film scenes such as:
- North of the wall haunted forest
- King’s Road nearby Castle black
- The Wildling camp & where the watch finds dismembered bodies in the snow
- Visit the Campfire where Tyrion and Jon talk just north of the Wall
![An old stone archway with a crenelated wall on a pathway, suggesting an entrance to an ancient castle or garden. The path curves gently towards the arch, flanked by greenery and shaded by mature trees.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Tollymore-forest.jpg)
![A tranquil stream flowing through a lush forest, with sunlight filtering through the canopy above. The rocks in the stream are blanketed in vibrant green moss, creating a serene and picturesque woodland scene.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Tollymore-.jpg)
#2. Inch Abbey (House of Tully)
You will recognize this GOT site as Riverrun. Way back in the 1st season when Robb Stark camps out after the Battle of the Whispering Wood against the Lannisters.
This ruined Cistercian monastery is located in Downpatrick, County Down, in Northern Ireland.
GOOD TO KNOW: Inch Abbey’s filming location is more remote compared to other “Game of Thrones” sites and is frequently not part of day trip tours.
![The weathered remains of Inch Abbey's arches, captured from within the ruins, showcase the juxtaposition of solid stone structures against the softness of surrounding greenery under an overcast sky.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Inch-Abbey.jpg)
![Sunny day at Inch Abbey, with its ancient stone ruins standing among vibrant green grass, a clear blue sky above, and a paved pathway leading towards the historic site.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Inch-Abbey.jpg)
#3. Castle Ward
You can’t go to the places where many Game of Thrones scenes were filmed in Titanic Studios in Belfast.
But, you can visit Castle Ward, also called Winterfell, where Jon Snow and the Stark family lived in the first season! It’s an old house from the 18th century with big grounds you can explore.
![An arched stone gateway leading to a grassy path with a tall, leafless tree growing over it, creating a historical and serene entrance.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Castle-Ward.jpg)
![A view from below of a stone castle tower against a clear blue sky, with a person leaning out of a niche, appearing small in comparison to the structure's massive walls.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Winterfell.jpg)
#4. The Dark Hedges- Road to King’s Landing
![A person in medieval attire, complete with a fur cape and sword, standing on a road lined with twisted, gnarly trees, evoking a sense of ancient times.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Dark-Hedges-Northern-Ireland-1.jpg)
![A solitary figure walks down a secluded path flanked by imposing, intertwined trees known as the dark hedges, creating an almost surreal atmosphere that might be straight out of a fantasy tale.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Dark-Hedges.jpeg)
If you only have time for of these GOT sites, the Dark Hedges are worth visiting! This avenue of beech trees is one of the more recognizable sites and something you’ll love seeing even if you aren’t a fan of the show.
You will have seen The Dark Hedges in the first episode of the 2nd second when Arya Stark escapes from King’s Landing dressed as a boy.
#5. Cushendun Caves – Shadow Creature Birth Site
This is one of those Game of Thrones locations that is recognizable if you are an avid fan. It appears early in the series in season 2, episode 4.
The caves formed over a period of 400 million years creating this dark and ominous place to film the shadow birth scene.
It is also here that someone decided to make and put an “iron throne”. This iron throne is an armchair with some swords sticking up in the back! (not pictured)
![A pebbled pathway leading to the entrance of the Cushendun Caves, with lush greenery atop the rocky arch, blending natural beauty with a hint of mystery](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Cushendun-Caves.jpg)
![View from within the darkened interior of the Cushendun Caves, looking out towards the light with vibrant green vegetation framing the cave's mouth.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Cave.jpg)
#6. Fair Head -Dragonstone Cliffs
Fair Head or known in the show as Dragonstone Cliffs. It was here that Jon Snow encountered Daenerys Targaryen and her dragon. This is a beautiful spot on the coast of Northern Ireland.
#7. Murlough Bay
Murlough Bay is known in the show as Slaver’s Bay. This beautiful location on Northern Ireland’s Antrim coast is where Tyrion Lannister and Jorah Mormont went on their way to Meereen.
Also film location for Renly and Stannis Baratheon in the Stormlands.
#8. Ballintoy Harbour -Pyke Harbour
This is where Theon Greyjoy went back to Pyke, his old home, after being away for a long time. Now, you can visit the harbor, also known as the Iron Islands, for free.
It’s an awesome place to take pictures. It feels like you’re right in the middle of the show, with all the cool scenery that looks just like the Iron Islands.
Whether you really like Game of Thrones or just enjoy seeing beautiful and interesting places, you should definitely check it out.
The area by the sea with big waves makes for some really great photos. Plus, it’s cool to be in the same spots where the characters from the show were.
![Scenic view of Ballintoy Harbour with a white fishing boat moored in calm waters, seaweed-strewn beach in the foreground, and a quaint white building by the stone harbor walls.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Pyke-Harbour.jpg)
![Informational display board for 'Game of Thrones' at Ballintoy Harbour, known as Pyke Harbour in the show, featuring Alfie Allen as Theon Greyjoy in armor. The background shows a picturesque view of the harbor, blending the fictional world with the real-life filming location.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Game-of-Thrones.jpeg)
#9. Dunluce Castle – Castle Greyjoy
The famous Dunluce medieval castle reportedly built in the 13th century sits perched up on a cliff in Portrush. First built by the 2nd Earl of Ulster, Richard Óg de Burgh, before belonging to the McQuillan family in 1513.
A long line of history passed through this castle before becoming known to GOT fans at Pyke Castle.
Pyke Castle, home to Euron Greyjoy, in Game of Thrones, looks unrecognizable in real life. That is due to some creative CGI! The location of this 13th-century castle is unbeatable, and likely why it was used in the series.
You can go inside the ruins of this castle for a small entrance fee.
![The historic ruins of Dunluce Castle perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the sea, with grassy slopes and a partly cloudy sky providing a serene backdrop](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Dunluce-castle.jpg)
![A panoramic view of Dunluce Castle ruins extending into the distance, with the contrasting green fields and the rugged cliff faces emphasizing its dramatic location.](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Dunluce.jpg)
#10. Dragonstone – Downhill Beach
On the beach here on this site is where Melisandre burns statues of the Seven Gods of Westeros. This was the offering to the Lord of the Light. It was also here where she warns that the dead will rise in the north!
Downhill Beach, AKA, Downhill Strand is the best beach in Northern Ireland. From here you can see the nearby counties Antrim, Londonderry, as well as Donegal.
If you drive to this location, parking is available directly on the beach.
![Sandy beach in Northern Ireland](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Downhill-Beach.jpg)
![The beach in Northern Ireland](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Downhill-Beach-.jpg)
Other Notable Game of Thrones Sites
The Famous 10 Doors of Thrones
What are the Doors of Thrones and where can I find them? When trees from the Dark Hedges were destroyed in a storm in 2016, HBO and the Northern Ireland Tourism Board put that wood to good use.
As an homage to Game of Thrones, 10 doors were crafted and bestowed upon local businesses, predominantly along the Causeway Coast.
The places you can see these doors are:
- The Cuan
- Fiddler’s Green
- Percy French
- Blake’s of the Hollow
- The Fullerton Arms
- Gracehill House
- Mary McBride’s
- Ballygally Castle
- The Dark Horse
- Frank Owens’ Bar
Where to Stay In Northern Ireland
Ballygally Castle
Ballygally Castle Hotel is a 17th-century castle now, a hotel you must check out! Even if just for dinner! located in the village of Ballygally, County Antrim, it is the perfect place to stay while checking out Game of Thrones filming locations!
The rooms all have high ceilings and modern amenities. Truly an experience to stay in a CASTLE by the Northern Irish Sea!
Belle Isle Estate Castle & Cottages
Stay in a castle, Ned Stark style! This 17th Century castle, now a hotel is located 5 miles from the town of Maguiresbridge. It has Winterfell vibes for sure!
The perfect place to stay when you are planning your journey around Westeros!
The Bushmills Inn
Spend the night at the unique Bushmills Inn, which is only a short drive from the distillery. I really suggest eating at their restaurant. It’s also a perfect spot to stay if you want to rewatch the first season of Game of Thrones!
![Exterior of Bushmills Inn Northern Ireland](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Bushmills-Inn.jpg)
![A woman in front of the Bushmills Distillery in Northern Ireland](https://asinglewomantraveling.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Busmills-near-Dark-Hedges.jpg)
Game of Thrones Themed Tours to Consider
- Game of Thrones – Winterfell Trek from Dublin
- Game of Thrones and Giant’s Causeway Day Tour from Belfast
- Game of Thrones – Iron Islands & Giant’s Causeway from Belfast
Wrapping Game of Thrones Sites in One Day
If you plan your day by starting early and get strategic you can definitely see all the Game of Thrones sites worth seeing in Northern Ireland.
If you are a solo traveler like me, and unsure about seeing these sites alone, I would recommend joining a group tour leaving from either Dublin or Belfast.
Northern Ireland is such a magical place, filled with castles to explore and landscapes that seem to bring the fantastical realms of Game of Thrones to life right before your eyes.
Ireland has never been on my bucket list, but you just convinced me to add it.
Even though I never watched GoT I can still definitely appreciate the photos in this post!
Ireland looks lovely! Thanks!
Wow these destinations are so beautiful. I don’t even watch the show and I’d love to go! Thank you for sharing.
Well I didn’t realize that there were so many amazing places to see there! I don’t even watch the show and I would love to go. Thank you for sharing!
Even though I have never watched the Game of Thrones, there is obviously a lot to love about Ireland and so many beautiful places to see.
I love this show and have travelled to quite a few places in Spain where it was filmed. Hoping to go check them out in Ireland next!