5 Game of Thrones Filming Locations You Have to Visit in Northern Ireland

Believe it or not I’ve somehow made it through the last 8 years without ever watching a single episode of Game of Thrones. However, I realize that almost every other single person on the planet watches obsessively and that’s only been made clearer to me since moving to Ireland, where many major scenes of the show have been filmed. One of my best friends who loves the show recently came to visit and I couldn’t not bring her to some of these iconic filming locations.

Check-out the 5 Game of Thrones filming locations that you have to visit on any trip to Northern Ireland.. even if you don’t watch the show!

1. Castle Ward aka Winterfell

Located in one of the most eastern points of Northern Ireland, Castle Ward is located on beautiful national trust grounds. Knowing that they’re one of the most iconic locations in the Seven Kingdoms, they offer up the opportunity to take a Game of Thrones themed tour, learn archery, and even meet a direwolf.

2. The Dark Hedges aka the Kingsroad

Although this unique avenue of beech trees is only shown briefly as the Kingsroad, it’s become a huge tourist destination for fans of the show. Apparently, not many people visited the road pre-GOT but now it’s one of the most photographed spots in Northern Ireland. I can see why.

3. Ballingtoy Harbour aka the Iron Islands

If the idea of driving down a very twisty, narrow road terrifies you then this stop is not for you. But, if you can handle it then the views are absolutely worth it. According to Discover Northern Irelands website, the harbour is where Theon Greyjoy arrives back in the Iron Islands, admires his ship The Sea Bitch and also meets his sister Yara. But for any non-GOTers out there, the harbour is just a beautiful, scenic place that you make sure to stop at. Fun Fact: on a clear day you might even be able to see Scotland!

4. Dunluce Castle aka House of Greyjoy

What’s known as the House of Greyjoy on GOT is actually Dunluce Castle, a ruined medieval castle from the 1500s resting on a coastal cliff. It’s also rumoured to be the inspiration for the castle in Chronicles of Narnia (the book, not the movie).

5. Audleys Castle

Only a 10-minute walk along the coast away from Winterfell, Audley’s Castle and Field were used as the aftermath of the Battle of Oxcross.