Game of Thrones & Giant's Causeway: Guided Tour from Belfast

Planning a trip to Northern Ireland and a fan of the HBO series Game of Thrones? Or perhaps you’re just after breathtaking scenery and a little history? Either way, this full-day guided tour from Belfast delivers an impressive mix of both, with a dash of local storytelling that makes the experience truly memorable.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines several iconic filming locations, like Dark Hedges and Dunluce Castle, with the stunning natural beauty of the Giant’s Causeway. The guides are highly praised for their local knowledge and friendly attitude, making the journey both fun and informative. The value for the price is another highlight, especially considering the number of stops, the transportation, and the insider info you pick up along the way.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves quite a bit of walking over uneven surfaces, so it’s best suited for those comfortable on their feet. Also, as it’s geared toward fans and history lovers, very young children under 12 are not permitted — making it a better fit for older kids and adults. Overall, if you’re looking for an engaging, scenic trip with plenty of insight into the series and Ireland itself, this tour hits the mark.

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Key Points

Well-rounded experience blending filming locations, castles, and natural marvels
Expert guides share insider gossip and local stories, enriching your understanding
Comfortable transportation with a coach that makes long-distance travel easy
Great value for money considering all the stops, sights, and storytelling
Suitable for older kids and adults comfortable walking over varied terrain
Flexible booking options like free cancellation and pay later add peace of mind

This tour runs about nine hours, departing from central Belfast at around 8:30 am. It’s a long day but packed with diverse highlights that justify the time investment. The route is carefully curated to showcase both the most iconic Game of Thrones filming sites and some of Northern Ireland’s most stunning natural and historical spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Departure and Arrival

Check-in takes place at Donegall Square West, just beside Belfast City Hall, making it easy to find and access. The tour is conducted in English, and a knowledgeable guide and driver team work together to keep everything running smoothly. The bus is described as comfortable, and with many reviews praising the friendly guides, you know you’re in good hands.

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Walking and Sightseeing

The tour involves walking over uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are a must. Our guides often highlight what the scenes would have looked like, sometimes showing pictures to help you visualize the magic of filming. You might find that at key locations, like Carrickfergus Castle or Dark Hedges, your camera will get a workout capturing the scenery.

Dark Hedges: The Iconic Tree Archway

Arguably one of the most photographed spots in Northern Ireland, the Dark Hedges is a natural tunnel of intertwined trees that made Arya Stark’s escape from King’s Landing look dramatic. Reviewers have praised the guide’s storytelling here, with one mentioning how they appreciated learning about the series and the location’s real history. The tour stops here for a good amount of time, allowing visitors to take photos and soak in the eerie atmosphere.

Carrickfergus Castle: A Historic Fortress

While not directly featured in Game of Thrones, Carrickfergus Castle’s Norman fortress facade fits perfectly into the series’ medieval vibe. Visitors enjoy hearing the history behind the castle, which adds context to the architecture and strategic importance of these sites in Ireland’s past.

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Dunluce Castle: The House of Greyjoy

The exterior of Dunluce Castle was used as the setting for the House of Greyjoy, one of the series’ prominent houses. It’s an impressive ruin perched dramatically on the cliffs, offering fantastic photo opportunities. Many reviewed that the guide’s insights made the experience even more special, blending real history with the series’ lore.

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Giants Causeway: A Natural Wonder

Though not featured in Game of Thrones, the UNESCO-listed Giants Causeway is a must-see on any Northern Ireland trip. Its unique basalt columns and dramatic coastline make it a highlight. Reviewers mention that even non-fans find this stop awe-inspiring, with one stating it’s “a must-see” and worth every penny.

Cushendun Caves and Other Series Locations

The tour also visits caves associated with Melisandre’s shadow baby and a brief stop in Carnlough, where Arya Stark had a scene in Season 6. Reviewers appreciate the insider gossip about cast and crew, which makes the locations come alive with behind-the-scenes stories.

This tour’s guides are frequently highlighted in reviews for their enthusiasm and deep knowledge. One reviewer mentioned that Stephen’s exceptionally detailed commentary made the day special, while others appreciated the humor and friendly demeanor of guides like Andrew, Tommy, and Sharleen.

Many reviewers noted that guides often use visual aids to show what the scenes looked like in the series, which helps fans connect the dots between the filming locations and the real landscapes. Their stories often include gossip and fun facts about the actors and production, transforming a sightseeing trip into a mini-series history lesson.

The tour uses a coach that comfortably transports groups across Northern Ireland. The 9-hour itinerary is tightly packed but allows enough time at each stop to explore and take photos. Some reviews mention that the schedule can feel a bit rushed, especially at the Giants Causeway, so if you’re keen to linger, keep that in mind.

The pick-up and drop-off are straightforward, and the tour ends back at the original meeting point, making logistics simple. The flexibility of booking options, including free cancellation and pay later, makes planning stress-free.

Considering the cost of transportation, guide expertise, and multiple attraction stops, the tour offers good value. Several reviews emphasize that the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and entertaining, adding extra value beyond just the sightseeing.

While it’s priced as a full-day experience, many travelers feel the insider stories and photo opportunities make it worth the investment. Plus, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, the chance to walk among the actual filming locations adds a layer of excitement that’s hard to beat.

This trip suits fans of the series eager to see the filming locations firsthand, history lovers, and anyone who appreciates stunning coastal scenery. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer guided tours that provide insight without the hassle of planning each stop themselves.

However, those with mobility issues should consider the walking involved, and very young children under 12 are not permitted, making it more suitable for teenagers and adults. If you’re up for a full day of exploring spectacular sites with engaging storytelling, this tour is a solid choice.

This Game of Thrones & Giant’s Causeway tour is more than just a sightseeing trip; it’s an engaging experience that combines series nostalgia, history, and nature. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary make it a standout in Belfast’s tour options.

You’ll love the variety of stops—from the atmospheric Dark Hedges to the rugged cliffs of Dunluce Castle and the natural wonder of Giants Causeway. The stories and insider gossip shared by guides like Stephen and Sharleen add a personalized touch that makes the day special.

For those wanting a value-packed, fun-filled day with stunning scenery and series lore, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for series fans, history buffs, and nature lovers alike looking for an authentic, memorable experience in Northern Ireland.

Is this tour suitable for children under 12?
No, children under 12 are not permitted on this tour, likely due to the walking involved and content suitability.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, water, and comfortable clothes are recommended. Bringing a packed lunch is advised, as some stops may be rushed.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time and stops at key locations.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in a coach, a tour guide, and entry to the sites on the itinerary.

Are there any flexible booking options?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility.

Does the tour run daily?
Availability varies, so check the specific dates when booking.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking over uneven surfaces, which might not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Can I join if I’m not a Game of Thrones fan?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention that even non-fans enjoyed the scenic stops and learned interesting facts about Ireland’s history.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at Donegall Square West near Belfast City Hall and ends back at the same point.