Game of Thrones Filming Locations: Belfast Region
Visit 25+ Iconic Filming Locations from the HBO Series
Book Your GOT TourLocations
25+ filming sites
Coverage
Full Northern Ireland region
Tour Duration
8-9 hours (full day)
Scenes
All 8 seasons featured
Why Northern Ireland is the Heart of Game of Thrones
Northern Ireland served as the primary filming location for HBO's Game of Thrones throughout all eight seasons. The region's dramatic landscapes, ancient castles, and mystical forests provided the perfect backdrop for Westeros, from the frozen lands Beyond the Wall to the rugged Iron Islands.
Over 25 filming locations are scattered across Northern Ireland, many within a short drive of Belfast. The production spent more than 10 years filming here, creating thousands of jobs and transforming the region into a must-visit destination for Game of Thrones fans worldwide.
Today, you can walk in the footsteps of the Starks, Lannisters, and Targaryens. Stand where Jon Snow took his Night's Watch vows, see where Arya escaped as a boy, and visit the real-life Winterfell courtyard. Many locations remain largely unchanged since filming, offering an authentic experience.
Top Game of Thrones Filming Locations
Dark Hedges (The Kingsroad)
The iconic tunnel of beech trees where Arya escaped King's Landing
Featured in: Season 2, Episode 1
Castle Ward (Winterfell)
The Stark family home and courtyard where Bran was pushed from the tower
Featured in: Seasons 1-8
Tollymore Forest (Haunted Forest)
Where the White Walkers first appeared and the direwolf pups were found
Featured in: Season 1, Episode 1
Ballintoy Harbour (Iron Islands)
Lordsport Harbour where Theon Greyjoy returned home
Featured in: Seasons 2, 6
Cushendun Caves (Birthplace of the Shadow)
Where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow creature
Featured in: Season 2
Larrybane (Renly's Camp)
Where Brienne defeated Loras Tyrell in combat
Featured in: Season 2
Planning Your Game of Thrones Journey
Self-Drive vs. Guided Tour
While it's possible to visit GOT locations independently, a guided Game of Thrones tour offers significant advantages:
- Expert Commentary: Learn behind-the-scenes stories, filming secrets, and connect scenes to specific locations
- Efficient Route: Visit 6+ locations in one day without navigation stress or parking hassles
- Hidden Spots: Access filming locations that are difficult to find or on private property
- Photo Opportunities: Guides know the best angles and can recreate iconic scenes for photos
- Time-Saving: No wasted time getting lost or searching for exact filming spots
Best Time to Visit
Game of Thrones filming locations can be visited year-round, but each season offers unique advantages:
- Spring (March-May): Mild weather, fewer crowds, lush green landscapes like in the show
- Summer (June-August): Best weather but busiest tourist season - book tours in advance
- Autumn (September-November): Dramatic foliage, moody atmospheres perfect for photos
- Winter (December-February): Quietest time, authentic "Beyond the Wall" experience, especially if there's snow
What to Bring
- Camera: Essential for recreating iconic scenes
- Weather-appropriate clothing: Irish weather changes quickly - layers and rain gear recommended
- Comfortable walking shoes: Some locations require short hikes
- GOT knowledge: Rewatch key episodes before visiting for maximum enjoyment
- Props (optional): Bring a toy sword or cloak for fun photo opportunities
Additional GOT Experiences in Belfast
Beyond the filming locations, Belfast offers other Game of Thrones experiences:
- Linen Mill Studios: Where much of the interior filming took place (not open to public, but drive-by possible)
- GOT Doors: Carved doors from fallen Dark Hedges trees displayed in pubs across Northern Ireland
- Themed Dining: Several Belfast restaurants offer GOT-themed menus and experiences
- Photo Opportunities: GOT-themed murals and installations throughout Belfast city center
Frequently Asked Questions
What Game of Thrones Fans Say
"Michael is a GOT encyclopedia! He took us to 7 filming locations and shared behind-the-scenes stories we'd never heard. Standing in the actual Winterfell courtyard gave me chills. Best tour experience ever!"
David & Lisa M.
Sydney, Australia
"Even my husband who hasn't watched the show loved this tour! The locations are breathtaking regardless. Michael helped us recreate iconic scenes for photos - we got hundreds of likes on Instagram!"
Rachel T.
Toronto, Canada
Game of Thrones Tours
Game of Thrones Experience
The ultimate GOT tour! Visit 6+ filming locations including Winterfell, the Dark Hedges, and the Iron Islands. Full-day private tour with expert commentary.
From £450
View Tour DetailsGiant's Causeway & GOT Combo
Combine UNESCO World Heritage Site with Game of Thrones locations. Visit Giant's Causeway, Dark Hedges, and coastal filming locations.
From £450
View Tour DetailsGame of Thrones Filming Locations Map
Filming locations span across Northern Ireland, with major sites within 1-2 hours of Belfast
Walk in the Footsteps of Westeros
Book a private Game of Thrones tour and experience the magic of Northern Ireland's filming locations with an expert local guide.
Contact: [email protected] | 07935 255781