Belfast: Game of Thrones Winterfell Locations Tour

If you’re a die-hard Game of Thrones fan, this tour promises a full immersion into the show’s iconic filming spots in Northern Ireland, especially the legendary Winterfell. It’s a well-organized 10-hour adventure that combines scenery, history, and a touch of fantasy, with a knowledgeable guide who’s also a former actor from the series. You’ll get to wander through real castles, ancient ruins, and lush forests that served as the backdrop for some of the series’ most memorable moments.

What really makes this experience shine is the opportunity to dress up in Stark cloaks, hold realistic swords and shields, and take photos at each location—making it perfect for fans wanting more than just a sightseeing trip. The reviews highlight the passion of guides like Richard and Andrew, who bring the magic alive with stories, behind-the-scenes facts, and genuine enthusiasm.

That said, it’s a fairly full day, with some walking and outdoor trekking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of physical activity and prepared for weather changes. Keep in mind, the tour is not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility or health issues. But if you love cinematic history, stunning scenery, and a chance to relive the series, this tour offers fantastic value and authentic experiences.

Key Points

• Authentic filming locations like Winterfell, Inch Abbey, and Tollymore Forest are included.
• Guides are former actors or passionate storytellers—adding depth and fun.
• The experience offers costumes, swords, banners for immersive photo ops.
• The tour balances scenic beauty with behind-the-scenes stories.
• It’s a full-day trip, so comfortable shoes and weather-ready clothing are essential.
• The tour is highly rated (4.9/5) with many reviewers praising the guides and scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off bright and early at the Leonardo Hotel Belfast (formerly Jurys Inn), with a prompt departure at 8:00 AM after a quick meet-and-greet outside the hotel. The group size tends to be moderate, ensuring you’re not lost in a crowd, and the coach journey lasts about 1.5 hours to the first stop. This setup helps you settle in, soak up some scenery, and get ready for a day packed with filming locations.

First Stop: Old Castle Ward

Your first encounter with the real Winterfell is at Castle Ward, a 12th-century estate that served as the exterior of Winterfell in season one. This is where you’ll get swept up in the magic, walking the same courtyards and open spaces where Bran, Arya, and Jon Stark roamed. The site’s atmospheric stone walls and historic vibe help you picture the battles, feasts, and secrets that made Winterfell so unforgettable.

Visitors often mention that walking through Castle Ward is like stepping back into Westeros. The guide points out specific filming spots, including Walder Frey’s Twins and Robb Stark’s camp, making it easy to connect the dots between the show and reality. The guide’s knowledge about the series and filming stories makes the experience even richer, often quoting reviewers like Sabrina, who appreciated how much the guide, Andrew, knew about both the show and the filming process.

Lunch Break at The Barn Bar & Country Kitchen

After a solid morning exploring, you’ll head to a charming local pub for lunch. The tour offers an option to pre-order a hot pub meal or bring along a packed lunch—whatever suits your pace. The reviews reveal that the food is well-received, with many mentioning the delicious pub fare and friendly atmosphere. This break is also a good chance to chat with fellow fans and swap favorite scenes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Inch Abbey: Robb Stark’s Coronation Site

Post-lunch, the journey continues to Inch Abbey, a historic ruin that doubled as the location where Robb Stark is crowned King in the North. Here, your guide will pass around authentic wool Stark cloaks, direwolf banners, and swords, allowing for fun and memorable photos. This spot marries history with fantasy seamlessly, and many reviewers like Steven emphasize the passion and storytelling skills of the guides, which add depth to the experience.

Tollymore Forest Park: The Haunted Forest

The final major stop is Tollymore Forest Park, famous as the Haunted Forest beyond the Wall and the first location where the White Walkers appeared in the series. The lush, mossy woods and twisted branches create an eerie, otherworldly atmosphere—perfect for fans looking to see where the Night’s Watch first encountered the supernatural.

Most reviewers describe this part of the tour as a highlight, noting the beautiful scenery and the guide’s stories about the scenes filmed here. The two-hour exploration allows ample time to wander, take photos, and soak in the cinematic surroundings. As one reviewer shared, seeing the forest where the Stark pups were found adds a layer of magic and nostalgia.

Return Journey and Final Thoughts

After a full day of sightseeing, the coach heads back to Belfast, arriving around 6 PM. The tour is designed to be relaxed yet packed with highlights, making it a good choice for fans who want to see the real-world locations behind their favorite series and experience Northern Ireland’s scenic beauty.

The reviews underscore the value—many praise the knowledgeable guides like Richard and Andrew, the authentic costumes and props that make photos special, and the overall good value for money. The tour’s structured itinerary with clear timing helps keep everything on track, ensuring you get the most out of each stop.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This tour is ideal for dedicated Game of Thrones fans eager to see the show’s iconic locations in person. It appeals to those who enjoy history and scenery, as well as fans wanting the chance to dress up in Stark gear and take memorable photos. It’s suited for travelers comfortable with outdoor walking and a full day of sightseeing. If you’re looking for a relaxed, storytelling-rich experience with plenty of photo opportunities, this is a fantastic choice.

However, it’s not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or those with mobility or health concerns—so plan accordingly. If you’re after a more casual or shorter activity, this might feel a bit long or physically demanding.

Final Thoughts

This Game of Thrones Winterfell Locations Tour offers more than just sightseeing; it’s an engaging, authentic experience that brings Westeros to life with the help of passionate guides and stunning scenery. It’s perfect for super-fans eager to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters and see where the series was brought to screen.

The inclusion of costumes and props elevates the experience, making it perfect for memorable photos and social media. The carefully curated itinerary includes all the key locations—Winterfell, Robb Stark’s crowned site, and the haunting woods beyond the Wall—delivering a comprehensive series experience.

While the full-day schedule requires some stamina, the value and depth of storytelling make it worth every penny. The positive reviews reflect a sense of genuine enthusiasm, with many travelers highlighting the expert guides and beautiful scenery as key highlights.

If you’re a series fan, history lover, or scenic explorer, this tour is a standout choice that combines cinematic magic with authentic Northern Irish landscapes. Prepare for a day of adventure, stories, and unforgettable moments that bring Game of Thrones to life in a way you’ll cherish long after you leave Belfast.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is provided via coach from the starting point at Leonardo Hotel Belfast, and the journey between locations is part of the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as there will be walking and outdoor exploration at each stop.

Can I bring food or drinks?
Food in the vehicle is not allowed, but you can buy a hot pub lunch at the stop or bring your own packed lunch.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts around 10 hours, starting around 8 AM and returning to Belfast in the evening.

Are costumes and props provided?
Yes, the guide will pass around wool cloaks, direwolf banners, and swords for photo opportunities at key locations.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 18, pregnant women, or travelers with certain health or mobility issues.

What is included in the price?
Entrance fees to Castle Ward and Tollymore Forest Park, a guide who is a former Game of Thrones extra, costumes, and props are included. Meals and merchandise are not.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviewers frequently praise the guides for their enthusiasm, stories, and insider knowledge—adding depth to the locations.

Is the tour good value for money?
Most reviewers agree it offers great value, considering the sites visited, the props, and the storytelling.

This Game of Thrones tour combines cinematic history, breathtaking scenery, and engaging storytelling to give fans a memorable day out. Whether you’re a die-hard series enthusiast or a curious traveler, it provides a well-balanced, authentic glimpse into Westeros—and the stunning landscapes that brought it to life.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby