Belfast: Game of Thrones Winterfell Locations Tour

Belfast: Game of Thrones Winterfell Locations Tour – a detailed look at a fan-favorite adventure

If you’re a Game of Thrones enthusiast or simply love discovering authentic filming sites, this Belfast Winterfell Locations Tour offers a full-day journey through some of the most iconic spots from the series. Led by a guide who was a former Game of Thrones extra, the experience promises insight, fun, and plenty of photo opportunities at real-world locations that brought Westeros to life.

What makes this tour especially appealing is its attention to detail: from donning Stark cloaks to walking through the same forests where the White Walkers made their first appearance. We also love the fact that it’s designed to be both immersive and practical, with options for pre-ordering lunch, ample time at key sites, and a knowledgeable guide who truly cares about sharing stories behind the scenes.

A potential downside? The day involves quite a bit of travel and walking, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues or limited stamina. But for dedicated fans, history buffs, or anyone craving a deep dive into Westeros, this tour hits all the right notes.

This adventure is ideal for travelers who want authentic, behind-the-scenes insights, enjoy outdoor walks, and appreciate a good mix of history, scenery, and storytelling. If you’re after a memorable, well-organized day that combines sightseeing with fandom, this one’s a winner.

Key Points

Authentic filming locations bring Westeros to life with real castles, abbeys, and forests.
Guided by a former extra, adding insider stories and fun facts you won’t find elsewhere.
Includes costume and weapon props for memorable photo moments.
Takes you to multiple sites, from Winterfell’s courtyard to the Haunted Forest.
Optionally pre-order lunch or bring your own, with many charming local pub options.
Ideal for GOT fans and those eager for an active, immersive day outdoors.

Contents show

An in-depth look at the Belfast: Game of Thrones Winterfell Locations Tour

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting point and transportation

The journey begins at the Leonardo Hotel Belfast, formerly known as Jurys Inn, where your guide will be waiting outside early in the morning. The tour departs promptly at 8:00 AM, so arriving by 7:45 AM is recommended to settle in and get ready for an exciting day. The coach ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, giving travelers a chance to settle in and get a first glimpse of the Irish countryside.

The coach itself is comfortable, and the timing is designed to maximize your day’s sightseeing. As you leave Belfast behind, the scenery shifts to lush green landscapes and historic sites, setting the tone for a day packed with exploration.

Looking for more options in Belfast? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

First stop: Old Castle Ward and Winterfell

The first major stop is at Castle Ward, the historic estate serving as Winterfell in season one. The location is a highlight for any fan—imagine walking where the Stark children played or where the first season’s epic battles unfolded.

Here, you’ll spend around 105 minutes exploring the estate. The guide—who actually worked as a Game of Thrones extra—will lead you through the courtyard and explain how the scenes were filmed. You’ll get to see Walder Frey’s Twins, the twin towers where Robb Stark declared himself King in the North, and Robb’s camp in the Riverlands.

One reviewer, Sabrina Fernandes, highlighted how special it was to see scenes from the series come to life with her guide’s wealth of knowledge. She appreciated that the guide could point out exactly where filming took place, making it easier to re-watch episodes with a new perspective.

Lunch break at The Barn Bar & Country Kitchen

Post-exploration, you’ll stop for lunch at a charming local pub. You can pre-order a hot pub meal or bring your own packed lunch—cost of food is not included, but the experience of enjoying a hearty meal in a traditional setting adds to the trip’s authenticity. Many guests noted the delicious food and friendly atmosphere at this stop, making it a perfect midday break.

Inch Abbey and the “King in the North” scene

Next, the tour visits Inch Abbey, a picturesque ruin where Robb Stark was crowned “King in the North”. This spot offers a beautiful backdrop of ancient stonework and expansive skies—ideal for photos. For many, this site evokes a sense of medieval grandeur mixed with cinematic history.

Expect about 30 minutes at Inch Abbey, giving you enough time to wander, take photos, and soak in the feeling of stepping back into Westeros. The guide provides context about the filming, adding depth to the experience.

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Tollymore Forest Park: The Haunted Forest

The final major site is Tollymore Forest Park, where the Night’s Watch first encountered White Walkers and the Stark pups were discovered. This forest is a fan-favorite, with its moss-covered trees and winding paths creating a moody, atmospheric setting.

With approximately 2 hours here, you’ll trek through the woods, walking in the exact spots where pivotal scenes were shot. The guide, who has inside knowledge, will share stories of how scenes were filmed and what filming conditions might have been like. Reviewers like Lorien appreciated the passionate guides, who made the forest come alive with tales about actors and production.

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Return journey and reflections

After a full day of exploring, the coach heads back to Belfast, arriving around 6:30-7:00 pm. The return trip offers a chance to relax and discuss the highlights of the day. Many guests feel the time at each location was well-managed, allowing for a thorough experience without feeling rushed.

What makes this tour stand out?

Authentic filming locations are the core appeal. From the Winterfell courtyard to Walder Frey’s Twins and Robb Stark’s camp, every site is real and accessible—no movie sets here. Many reviewers, including Manali Vinod, mention how the value for money is excellent, considering the number of sites visited and the depth of storytelling.

Guides with inside knowledge significantly elevate the experience. Richard, a guide praised in reviews, was noted for his passion, storytelling skills, and ability to make everyone feel engaged. The fact that the guide was a former extra adds an extra layer of authenticity—he’s been on set, knows the behind-the-scenes stories, and brings a genuine love for the series.

Props and costumes—including wool Stark cloaks, direwolf banners, and real swords—are provided for photos. This adds a fun, immersive element that many guests find memorable. The chance to don Stark gear and pose with banners makes the experience more than just sightseeing.

The value of the experience

While the tour isn’t cheap, many guests believe it offers excellent value. You’re spending a full day with a knowledgeable guide, visiting key locations that are otherwise difficult to access, and getting behind-the-scenes insights you might not find online. For fans, the chance to walk the same grounds as their favorite characters makes it a worthwhile investment.

Practical considerations

The day involves roughly 10 hours of travel, walking, and outdoor exploration. Comfortable shoes are a must, as is weather-appropriate clothing—rain or shine, you’ll be outside. Although the tour is fully guided, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, children under 18, or those with mobility or health issues, as the walking can be demanding.

Food costs are additional, but the option to pre-order lunch makes it convenient. No merchandise is included, but many guests find the photo opportunities and souvenirs well worth the extra expense.

Who will love this tour?

This tour is perfect for die-hard Game of Thrones fans who want to see the series’ filming locations in person. It’s ideal if you appreciate storytelling, enjoy outdoor walks, and love the idea of wearing costumes and taking photos in real medieval settings. History buffs and outdoor adventurers will also find it rewarding.

However, note that the long day, physical demands, and outdoor elements might make it less suitable for travelers with limited mobility or those seeking a more relaxed, indoor experience.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included in the tour. You’ll meet at the Leonardo Hotel Belfast and travel comfortably by coach to each site.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since you’ll be walking outdoors at each site.

Are lunch and refreshments included?
No, meals are not included, but you can pre-order a hot pub lunch or bring your own packed lunch.

Can I take photos wearing the Stark costumes?
Absolutely. Props and costumes are provided for photography, so don’t forget your camera or phone.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 18 and is unsuitable for pregnant women, those with back or mobility issues, or heart problems due to the physical nature of the day.

Final thoughts

For fans of Game of Thrones, this tour offers a rare chance to step onto the actual locations that made Westeros come alive. The blend of outdoor exploration, storytelling, and immersive props makes it a memorable day out. Led by a passionate guide with insider knowledge, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of the series’ filming magic.

While it’s a full-day adventure requiring some stamina, the quality of the sites visited and the authenticity of the experience make it well worth considering. If you’re looking for a way to combine sightseeing with your love for the series—and don’t mind a bit of walking—this tour will likely be a highlight of your Belfast trip.

This experience is best suited for:

Game of Thrones fans eager to visit filming locations in person
Those who enjoy outdoor activities and walking
Travelers looking for a guided, informative day with insider stories
Fans who appreciate authentic scenery over studio or set visits

It might be less ideal for:

Visitors with limited mobility or physical constraints
Families with very young children
Travelers seeking a less active, indoor-focused day

Enjoy walking in the footsteps of your favorite characters, wearing Stark cloaks, and exploring the landscapes that brought Westeros to life — a truly memorable journey for any fan or history lover.

You can check availability for your dates here: