Game of Thrones is, every season, an invitation to discover wonderful landscapes behind its screen. But why not follow in Jon Snow's footsteps? While the film crew has travelled the world to amaze us, it is in Northern Ireland that a large part of the scenes in the series were shot. The region's large natural areas adapt very well to the landscapes of Winterfell in the north. Petit Futé brings you its selection of the most beautiful Game of Thrones filming sites in Northern Ireland.
Slemish Mountain
Located in Antrim County, this mountain is an ancient volcano that is now inactive. According to legend, St Patrick, the patron saint of the Irish, was held in slavery there for several years before meeting God who gave him the task of evangelizing Ireland. In Game of Thrones, the Slemish Mountain was used as a backdrop for the Dothrakis' camp. It is also where the splendid Khaleesi met her husband Khal Drogo.
Cushendun Cellars
Formed in extreme weather conditions, the Cushendun caves are an unmissable spot for fans of the series. It is here that Melisandre gives birth to the famous "shadow baby" under the watchful eye of Davos. This is one of the defining scenes of Season 2. The place is actually composed of two tunnels that overlook a typically Irish pebble beach...
Inch Abbey
Inch Abbey depends on Furness Abbey, a Cistercian monastery that is now in ruins. Built in the 11th century in Down County, the former abbey is an unmissable site on a journey in the footsteps of the Game of Thrones heroes. In the series, the ruins were used as a backdrop for Walder Fray's castles in Riverlands. It is also here that Lady Catelyn Stark learns of her husband's death and swears to take revenge sooner or later. An emblematic place!
Larrybane Bay
Larrybane Bay is a must in Northern Ireland: its superb limestone cliffs make it one of the most protected coasts in the region. This place is still almost in its wild state and benefits from a wide variety of fauna and flora. Larrybane Bay is part of the "Storm Lands" in Game of Thrones. It is here that the mythical tournament between Brienne de Torth and Loras Tyrell took place
Ballintoy Harbour
Ballintoy is a village in Antrim County. Its picturesque and still pure landscapes give a crazy charm to this quiet little village. The fishing port was used as a backdrop for the "Iron Islands" when the famous Theon Greyjoy returned home
Dunluce Castle
Perched on a high cliff and surrounded by steep slopes, this 16th century castle is an exceptional monument. Located in Antrim County, it is accessed by a bridge that connects it to the mainland. In Game of Thrones, Dunluce Castle was used as the setting for Pyke Castle, the seat of the Greyjoy dynasty
Mussenden Temple
Mussenden Temple is located on Dragonstone Beach in Derry County. Built in the 18th century on the model of the Temple of Vesta in Italy, it was originally intended to house religious manuscripts. Perched more than 36 m above the sea, it offers a sublime view. The quote from Lucretia in the temple is significant: "How pleasant and safe it is to see the shore, the roll, and to hear the storm roar In Game of Thrones, this is where Lady Melisandre burns the seven idols of Westeros in the episode Le Nord se souvient
Tollymore Forest Park
The Tollymore Forest covers more than 630 ha in Northern Ireland. With its dense woods, caves and bridges, it is a real green lung in the region. Several scenes from the series were shot in the Tollymore Forest, including the very first one where you can see the White Walkers walking in snow-covered woods. When we visit the park today, we notice the remains of the artificial snow used by the production. It is also here that the Starks find and collect giant baby wolves.
Darth Hedges
Sometimes threatening, sometimes welcoming, the trees along the famous "Dark Hedges" path create a very special atmosphere, dear to photographers but also to directors! The perfect location for Game of Thrones, the "Dark Hedges" was used as the setting for the Royal Road where all Westeros' thugs meet. Feel free to walk around, the place is beautiful and safe in reality.... However, beware of the ghost who would occupy the place according to the inhabitants!
Castle Ward
A mix of classic and Gothic architecture, Ward Castle is a must for any good fan of the series who respects himself! It is indeed this castle that served as the setting for the fiefdom of the Stark house: Winterfell. Built in the 18th century, the building stands in the heart of a 332-hectare estate, ideal for pretty hikes!
