Game of Thrones Locations Tour including Westeros & Giant’s Causeway

A detailed look at the Game of Thrones Locations Tour including Westeros & Giant’s Causeway

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan or simply someone eager to experience Northern Ireland’s breathtaking landscapes, this tour offers a compelling way to see both iconic filming sites and natural wonders. From the dramatic coastlines to legendary castles, the 9.5-hour journey from Belfast promises a mix of culture, scenery, and stories.

One of the standout features we love is the expert commentary that keeps the locations lively and informative — it’s clear the guides are passionate and well-prepared. Plus, the inclusion of the stunning Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site, adds a significant natural highlight to the itinerary.

A potential consideration? The tour involves some walking and uneven terrain, which might be tiring for those with mobility issues. Also, while it’s marketed as a Game of Thrones trip, some reviews suggest the show-related commentary isn’t as in-depth as dedicated fans might hope. Still, if you’re after a balanced mix of scenery and show stops, this tour could be just right.

It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate natural beauty, enjoy storytelling, and want a snapshot of Northern Ireland’s most famous filming locations without the hassle of planning multiple trips themselves.

Key Points

• Diverse Highlights: From castles to dramatic coastlines, this tour offers a broad look at Northern Ireland’s best sights.
• Guide Quality: Many reviews praise guides like Stuart and Lisa for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling.
• Value for Money: At around $34, the tour packs a lot of sites and information within a comfortable day.
• Flexible Experience: The tour is suitable for moderate physical fitness levels, but involves some walking on uneven terrain.
• Scenic Journeys: The coastal drive offers opportunities for dolphin sightings and stunning views.
• Mixed Feedback on GOt Content: Some enthusiasts find the show-related commentary limited, but others enjoy the locations themselves regardless of the TV connection.

The Itinerary in Detail

Carrickfergus Castle

The tour kicks off with a quick visit to Carrickfergus Castle. This well-preserved 12th-century fortress gives you a chance to step into Ireland’s medieval past. The 40-minute stop allows for photos and exploration—admittedly, the castle is free to enter, so if you’re a history buff, you might want to spend a little more time wandering around the grounds.

Reviewers mention that the castle serves as a nice introduction, and some appreciate the optional photo stops. It’s a good way to get your first taste of Northern Ireland’s historic architecture before heading to the coast.

Carnlough Harbour & Braavos Filming Locations

Next, the tour takes you to Carnlough Harbour, where some Game of Thrones scenes were shot. This small fishing village served as Braavos, the city of Arya Stark’s storyline. Reviewers note that the canal here is where Arya’s character was stabbed by the Waif in Season 6, Episode 7 (“The Broken Man”).

The guide provides insider details about the filming, which adds a layer of intrigue, especially for fans eager to connect the dots between the show and real locations. One reviewer loved that their guide shared stories about the filming process, making the experience more engaging.

The Dark Hedges

One of the most photographed sites on the tour, the Dark Hedges is an iconic stretch of road lined with centuries-old beech trees. It’s famous for its Game of Thrones scenes, notably as the “King’s Road.” Travelers often enjoy dressing up with props and taking photos under the canopy, as several reviewers did.

While the stop lasts about an hour and a half, some mention that it’s enough time to get great photos, especially with the help of the guide’s tips. It’s a magical spot, especially if you appreciate atmospheric scenery or want a fun photo opportunity.

Giant’s Causeway

The real highlight for many is the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by volcanic activity, it’s truly one of the most striking natural wonders in the UK. Many reviewers call it “spectacular,” and some mention spotting dolphins during the coastal drive en route, adding to the magical experience.

Expect about an hour and a half here — plenty of time to walk among the stones, take photos, and learn about legends such as Finn McCool’s giant feat. Guides often share myths and legends, making the visit both scenic and storytelling-rich.

Dunluce Castle

The tour also includes a visit to Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff edge. This medieval ruin has a storybook quality and has served as a filming location for several productions. The 30-minute stop allows for photos and exploring the grounds. While some reviews mention it being a quick visit, the views alone are worth it.

Belfast Return

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour wraps up back in Belfast at the Great Victoria Street near the Grand Opera House. Many travelers appreciate the comfort of the coach and the ease of the return journey, especially after a busy day.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

This tour is designed to offer a comprehensive snapshot of some of Northern Ireland’s most impressive sights, blending natural landscapes, historic castles, and film locations. The professional guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and humor, which makes the long drive more engaging.

The transportation is typically comfortable, accommodating groups of up to 48 travelers, with live commentary ensuring you don’t miss out on the stories behind each spot. Many reviewers mention the driver, Steve or Stuart, as friendly and skilled, especially when navigating narrow or busy roads.

While the tour is marketed as a Game of Thrones experience, many guests note that the show-related commentary varies. Some say it’s a highlight, with plenty of insider stories, while others felt the focus was more on the scenery and history rather than detailed show trivia.

Timing and Physical Demands

Starting at 8:45 am and running for about 9.5 hours, this tour requires a fair bit of sitting and some walking, primarily at sites like Giant’s Causeway and Dunluce Castle. The terrain can be uneven, so those with mobility concerns might want to prepare accordingly. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchairs, but service animals are allowed.

Cost and Value

At approximately $34.42 per person, the price is quite reasonable considering the number of sites visited and the guided experience provided. Several reviews emphasize that this tour offers excellent value for money. Guests often mention that they received a lot of interesting stories and sightseeing for the price.

Additional Notes

• The tour includes live commentary but does not include hotel drop-off.
• It operates in good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, a different date or full refund is offered.
• The meeting point is centrally located in Belfast, making it convenient for most travelers.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Insights

What really makes this tour stand out are the reviews from fellow travelers. Many mention the guides’ friendliness and knowledge, especially naming Stuart and Lisa. One reviewer appreciated the “soundtrack for the tour,” which added a fun element to the experience. Others loved the scenic drives and were delighted by the dolphin sightings.

A few guests who were less satisfied point out that the show-related commentary could be more detailed, which is fair if you’re a die-hard fan. Still, most agree that the sites themselves are worth the trip, regardless of the film connection.

The Sum Up

This Game of Thrones Locations Tour from Belfast offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally enriching day out. It balances the allure of iconic filming spots with the natural beauty of Northern Ireland’s coast, especially the awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway.

Guides seem to be a highlight, with their stories and friendly manner making the long day enjoyable. The sightseeing stops are thoughtfully timed, allowing ample opportunity for photos, exploration, and soaking in the views.

While it may not satisfy the most avid Game of Thrones fans looking for in-depth show trivia, it’s perfect for those who want a practical yet memorable way to see some of the country’s best sights on a budget. Nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and show fans alike will find something to love here.

In essence, if you’re after an affordable, scenic, and engaging day trip from Belfast that offers a taste of Ireland’s legendary landscapes and film history, this tour delivers.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s suitable for travelers with moderate physical fitness, but note that walking on uneven terrain is involved. It’s not wheelchair accessible.

Does the tour include hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, it does not include hotel drop-off. The meeting point is centrally located on Great Victoria Street in Belfast.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 9 hours and 30 minutes, including all stops and travel time.

Are the guides knowledgeable about Game of Thrones?
Guides like Stuart and Lisa are praised for their knowledge, humor, and storytelling, though some reviews mention that the level of show-related commentary varies.

What is the main highlight of the trip?
Most guests rave about the Giant’s Causeway, but the Dark Hedges and castle visits are also highly appreciated for their scenery and history.

Can I expect to see wildlife during the tour?
Some reports mention dolphin sightings during the coastal drive, adding an extra special touch to the landscape views.

This tour is ideal for those who want to combine a love of Game of Thrones with Northern Ireland’s stunning scenery without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a show fanatic or a nature lover, it’s a day packed with memorable sights and stories.