Game of Thrones and Giant’s Causeway Day Tour from Belfast

Taking a day trip from Belfast to explore some of Northern Ireland’s most famous sites offers a mix of fantasy, history, and natural beauty. This particular tour, offered by Brit Movie Tours, combines the magic of the Game of Thrones filming locations with the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, making it a compelling choice for fans and nature lovers alike.

What makes this experience stand out? For starters, the knowledgeable guides who bring stories from the series and local legends to life, the breathtaking views at each stop, and the well-organized itinerary that maximizes your day without feeling rushed. A potential consideration? The tour lasts about 9 hours, so it suits those comfortable with long days on a coach, and the lunch stop in Ballycastle is at your own expense.

This tour is ideal for Game of Thrones enthusiasts, outdoor explorers, and anyone interested in Northern Ireland’s cinematic and natural highlights. Whether you’re eager to walk the Dark Hedges or marvel at the geological wonders of the Causeway, you’ll find this trip a rich, engaging experience.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Guides who are both informative and engaging, with some having appeared in the series themselves.
• Stunning Scenery: Iconic landscapes like the Giant’s Causeway and Dark Hedges that are perfect for photos.
• Filming Locations: Recognized sites from the Game of Thrones series, ideal for fans seeking authenticity.
• Convenient Trip: Round-trip transportation from Belfast, saving you the hassle of navigating on your own.
• Flexible and Well-Planned: Stops are timed to allow for exploration without feeling rushed.
• Price and Value: At around $48, the tour offers a good balance of cost, content, and memorable moments.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting in Belfast: The Gateway to Fantasy and Reality

The journey begins bright and early at the centrally located Donegall Square West. The coach departs at 9:00 am, setting the tone for a long but rewarding day. From the outset, the guide’s enthusiasm shines through, making the long drive feel lively and informative. Based on reviews, guides like Stuart and Gavin are praised for their wit and storytelling — some even having insights from their own appearances in the series.

Carnlough: Arya Stark’s Waterfall Escape

Our first notable stop is Carnlough, a small town with a big claim to fame — it’s where Arya Stark falls into the water after being stabbed in Season 6. The location is a quick 25-minute stop, enough for a few photos and to get a sense of the show’s real-world filming sites. Reviewers mention that the stops are well-timed, allowing for exploration without feeling hurried, which enhances the overall experience.

Bushmills Distillery: Ireland’s Oldest Whisky

Next, we visit the Bushmills Distillery, a highlight for those interested in Ireland’s famed whiskey. While this stop is free of charge and lasts about 45 minutes, some reviews note that the tour doesn’t include a whisky tasting or a detailed tour — it’s more of a photo and quick look-around. Still, the historic ambiance and the chance to see one of Ireland’s most iconic distilleries add flavor to the day.

The Giants Causeway: A Natural Wonder

The UNESCO-listed Giants Causeway is the star of the natural scenery segment. Here, we spend about 1.5 hours exploring the thousands of basalt columns that look like they belong to another world. While the site isn’t explicitly a filming location, its otherworldly vibe resembles some of the series’ mystic landscapes, a point noted by many reviewers. The firm, geometric formations make for fantastic photos and memorable walks. Reviewers describe it as “breathtaking” and “a must-see,” emphasizing how striking the natural beauty is, even for those not familiar with the series.

Dunluce Castle: Greyjoy’s Home

A brief 20-minute stop offers a perfect photo opportunity at Dunluce Castle, famously used as the exterior of the Iron Islands’ House of Greyjoy. The ruins provide a dramatic backdrop, and visitors often comment on its atmospheric presence. Some mention that the short visit leaves them wishing for more time but appreciate the quick glimpse into this historic site.

The Dark Hedges: The Iconic Tree Tunnel

On the journey back to Belfast, the tour makes a final stop at The Dark Hedges, the acclaimed tree-lined avenue that served as King’s Road in the series. The dense canopy creates a hauntingly beautiful setting, perfect for photos. Reviewers love this spot, with many noting it as a highlight and an excellent place for otherworldly pictures. Guides like Stuart are praised for their storytelling here, sharing anecdotes about Arya Stark’s escape and the location’s history.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation: The tour uses a coach with a maximum group size of 45, ensuring a comfortable ride. Many reviews highlight the drivers’ skillful navigation through winding roads — some even remarking on how they handled tight curves with ease.

Timing: The entire trip lasts about 9 hours, with well-paced stops that balance sightseeing and travel time. The tour starts at 9:00 am in Belfast and returns around 6:00 pm, allowing you to comfortably plan your day.

Cost: At approximately $48, this is a budget-friendly way to see some of Northern Ireland’s most treasured spots. Although food and drinks aren’t included, the stop in Ballycastle offers options for lunch at your own expense. Many reviewers suggest that local cafes are charming and worth exploring.

Guides: The value of this tour lies heavily in the guides’ storytelling skills. Multiple reviews mention guides like Stuart and Gavin as engaging, knowledgeable, and funny, adding depth and humor to the journey. Some guides have appeared in the series, providing behind-the-scenes tidbits that fans love.

Booking in Advance: The tour is popular, with bookings averaging 33 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure a spot.

Authentic Experiences and Unseen Details

What really stands out from the reviews is that this tour isn’t just about ticking boxes. Many travelers appreciate the personal stories, local legends, and the guide’s ability to make the long day feel lively. For example, one reviewer remarked how their guide shared stories about the history of Northern Ireland, not just the series — this adds richness to the trip.

A few noted that the tour could improve by expanding options for lunch or providing more detailed information at certain sites. However, the overall consensus remains positive, especially regarding the breathtaking scenery and the fun storytelling.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for Game of Thrones fans wanting to see the real locations that brought Westeros to life. It’s also a good choice for travelers seeking a mix of natural beauty and cinematic history, with enough flexible stops to soak in the scenery or take photos.

If you’re interested in learning about Northern Ireland’s landscapes, legends, and history, this tour offers more than just series sites. And if you’re short on time but want to hit a number of highlights in one day, it provides a convenient, well-organized option.

Final Thoughts

This 9-hour day trip from Belfast offers a compelling blend of fantasy, history, and natural wonder. While it caters to Game of Thrones lovers with filming locations and stories, it also appeals to nature enthusiasts who simply want to see the iconic Giants Causeway and dramatic castles.

The guides, often praised for their humor and knowledge, elevate the experience, making long travel hours feel lively and engaging. It’s good value at around $48, especially considering the convenience of round-trip transportation and the quality of stops.

If you’re eager to explore Northern Ireland’s scenic and cinematic treasures, this tour will leave you with plenty of photos, stories, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and storytelling power of this remarkable region.

FAQ

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

What is the starting point?
You’ll meet in central Belfast at Donegall Square West at 9:00 am.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there is a stop in Ballycastle for lunch at your own expense.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Check the specific provider’s policies for age restrictions.

What are the main stops?
Key sites include Carnlough, Bushmills Distillery, Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and The Dark Hedges.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund.

Is the guide knowledgeable about Game of Thrones?
Many guides have insightful stories and some have appeared in the series, making the experience more authentic and fun for fans.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, a camera, and some cash for lunch. It’s also wise to bring a raincoat or umbrella, as weather can be unpredictable.

Is the rope bridge included?
The famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is not part of this tour, as it’s off-limits for group visits. The focus remains on other filming locations and natural wonders.

This tour offers a fantastic balance of cinematic sights and natural beauty, making it a memorable addition to any Belfast itinerary. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply eager to see some of Northern Ireland’s most iconic landscapes, it’s a day packed with stunning views, engaging stories, and authentic experiences.