Game Of Thrones Locations & Giants Causeway North Antrim Coast Tour

Discover Northern Ireland’s Iconic Sights with a Private Guide

This Game of Thrones Locations & Giants Causeway North Antrim Coast Tour offers a comprehensive day out that blends film history, natural beauty, and medieval castles. Priced at $952.79 per group (up to 7 people), the tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours, making it ideal for those who want an in-depth exploration without the rush of larger bus groups. The tour departs from Belfast, and includes private transportation with added comforts like WiFi and bottled water.

Led by seasoned driver guides known for their knowledge, friendliness, and humor, this tour stands out through its flexible approach. Unlike larger tour buses, the private vehicle can venture onto rural roads and make stops at locations most accessible to small groups. The tour also offers pickup options, making it convenient for travelers staying in Belfast.

The itinerary features a mix of ancient castles, scenic coastal roads, and famous film sites. Visitors get a chance to see the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Dark Hedges, a celebrated filming location from Game of Thrones. The tour’s carefully curated stops, combined with local insights from guides, promise a well-rounded day emphasizing both history and natural wonders.

Key Points

• Private, customizable day trip from Belfast for up to 7 people at $952.79.
• 7 to 8 hours of sightseeing, including top Game of Thrones locations and the Giants Causeway.
• Expert guides with years of experience, known for their humor and storytelling.
• Stops at Carrickfergus Castle, Dunluce Castle, and Bushmills Distillery.
• Focus on scenic coastal views, rare photo opportunities, and film history.
• Option to add crossing the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge for an extra fee.

Starting Point in Belfast and Private Transportation

This tour begins with pickup from your Belfast accommodation or designated meeting points, offering convenience and flexibility. The private vehicle ensures a relaxed pace, with room for personalized stops and time for photos. The WiFi onboard means you can share your experience or research as you go, while bottled water keeps you refreshed.

The small group size (up to 7 people) makes for a more intimate experience, ideal for families, friends, or small groups seeking a personalized day out. The tour is designed to be accessible, with most sights suitable for prams, though some locations may have limited accessibility.

Exploring the North Antrim Coast: Scenic Highlights

The journey along the North Antrim Coast is itself a highlight. The tour takes rural roads that larger buses can’t access, revealing the verdant hills, valleys, and the iconic 40 shades of green Ireland is famous for. As the vehicle travels, viewers are treated to breathtaking scenery that has drawn visitors for centuries, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos.

One of the first stops is Carrickfergus Castle, a fully intact Norman fortress dating back to the 1100s. Though the admission ticket is not included, the castle’s imposing structure offers a glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past, and its historical significance is noted as the spot where King William of Orange first arrived in Ireland.

Visiting the Dark Hedges: An Enchanting Tree Tunnel

The Dark Hedges is a 300-year-old avenue of intertwined beech trees, recognized as one of the top 10 tree tunnels in the world. This location is particularly famous as a Game of Thrones filming site representing the King’s Road. Visitors spend about 30 minutes here, enough time for memorable photos amid the hauntingly beautiful canopy. The site remains free to access, making it a favorite for photographers and fans alike.

Game of Thrones Film Locations on the North Coast

The tour highlights multiple filming sites from Game of Thrones. The Ballygally Castle Hotel is notable for its Game of Thrones doors, with Door Number 9 located there. Carnlough Harbour served as Bravvos Canel in Season 6, offering a charming glimpse of the show’s landscape. The Cushendun Caves are where characters Sir Davos Seaworth and Lady Melisandre landed, and where Melisandre gave birth to her shadow baby—a moment etched into fans’ memories.

Larrybane Quarry, sitting right on the coastline, was King Renly’s base camp in Season 2. Nearby, the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge provides spectacular views of the cliffs and the Atlantic. Visitors can opt to cross the bridge for an additional fee, but the viewing platform offers stunning vistas without the crossing if preferred.

Ballintoy Harbour is another prominent filming location. Its small harbour and rugged coastline doubled as the Iron Islands, and it provides beautiful views with free access.

Exploring Dunseverick and the Giants Causeway

Dunseverick, with ruins dating back to 500 BC, is one of Ireland’s oldest castle sites. It’s noted that St Patrick himself visited this site in the 5th century, adding to its historical allure. The site is easily accessible, with a short stop.

The Giants Causeway is the undisputed highlight. Recognized as Northern Ireland’s top tourist attraction, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features millions of years old hexagonal basalt columns. The tour dedicates about 2 hours to exploring this natural wonder, with no included ticket price, so visitors should prepare for a £15 entry fee. The formations are spectacular, and the legend of Finn McCool adds a mythic element to the experience.

Visiting Dunluce Castle and Bushmills Distillery

Dunluce Castle, perched dramatically on a cliff edge, offers stunning photo opportunities. The castle is also a Game of Thrones filming site, used as Pyke Castle. Visitors can choose to spend extra time here for more exploration.

The Bushmills Distillery provides a short stop where visitors can shop or sample some of Ireland’s famous whiskeys. While the distillery tour can be added for an extra fee, the stop itself is free, and the shop is open for browsing.

Optional Crossing the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge

While the tour stops at Carrick A Rede to enjoy the viewing platform, crossing the famous Rope Bridge is optional. For those seeking adventure, the crossing can be arranged as an extra, but it is not included in the standard tour price. The view from the platform alone offers breathtaking sights of the coastline.

Accessibility, Comfort, and Practical Details

This private tour includes air-conditioned vehicle transport and WiFi, ensuring comfort and connectivity throughout the day. The total duration of 7 to 8 hours allows plenty of time at each stop, with flexibility for breaks, photos, or additional visits.

Most sights are accessible for prams, though some locations might have limited access due to terrain. The tour is suitable for most travelers, and service animals are permitted.

Final Thoughts on the Game of Thrones & Giants Causeway Tour

This private, guided experience from Belfast offers an excellent balance of scenic landscapes, historical sites, and film locations. The expert guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness, making the day both informative and enjoyable. The flexibility of the private vehicle allows for personalized stops and the potential to include additional activities like the Rope Bridge crossing.

While the admission fees for attractions like the Giants Causeway and Dunluce Castle are additional and should be budgeted for, the overall experience provides great value given the all-inclusive transport, bottled water, and WiFi.

This tour is best suited for small groups or families wanting a personalized journey through Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights, especially those interested in Game of Thrones filming locations or natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most sights are accessible for prams, though some terrain might be challenging. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including families.

Can I add a crossing of the Carrick A Rede Rope Bridge?
Yes, crossing the Rope Bridge is available as an extra cost if desired. The standard tour includes only the viewing platform.

Are tickets for the Giants Causeway included?
No, the admission fee of approximately £15 is not included and must be paid separately.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours, including all stops and sightseeing.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 7 guests per private vehicle, providing a more intimate experience.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup options are available, making it easy to start your day in Belfast.

What makes this tour special?
The personalized service, expert guides, and access to rural roads for unique viewpoints set this tour apart.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there’s room for some customization, especially if booked in advance.

What are the main highlights?
The Giants Causeway, Game of Thrones filming locations, Dunluce Castle, Dark Hedges, and Bushmills Distillery.

Is there WiFi onboard?
Yes, WiFi is provided on the private vehicle for convenience during your day out.