From Belfast: Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour

Exploring Northern Ireland becomes effortless with the From Belfast: Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Day Tour offered by Allens Tours. This 8.5-hour fully-guided journey departs from Belfast’s city center, taking you through some of the most iconic sights along the Antrim coast. The tour includes entry to the Giants Causeway—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and several famous Game of Thrones filming locations, making it perfect for history buffs, scenery lovers, and fans of the show alike.

What makes this tour stand out is the combination of stunning coastal scenery, rich folklore, and entertaining guides. While it covers a broad list of stops — including Carrickfergus Castle, Glenarm Castle, and the Dark Hedges — it also offers practical features like skip-the-line access to the Causeway. The price point, combined with well-paced stops and lively commentary, makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a comprehensive day trip from Belfast.

Key Points

• Duration: 8.5 hours, with a flexible starting time depending on availability
• Inclusions: Transport in an air-conditioned coach, guided commentary, entry to Giant’s Causeway and Dark Hedges
• Highlights: UNESCO World Heritage Site, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Game of Thrones filming locations, scenic Antrim coast drive
• Stops: Includes Carrickfergus Castle, Glenarm Castle, and Dunluce Castle
• Guide: Known for being knowledgeable, humorous, and helpful, with many reviews praising the entertaining storytelling and local insights
• Limitations: No included meals or drinks; lunch stop at a pub is available but not included in the price
• Booking flexibility: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, with pay later options

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Tour Starts at Belfast’s Donegall Road Office

The journey kicks off at the Allens Tours office on 27 Donegall Rd in Belfast. From there, a comfortable air-conditioned coach whisks you away on a carefully planned 8.5-hour adventure. The tour is designed for those who want to experience Northern Ireland’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets.

The departure process is straightforward, with friendly staff ensuring everyone is comfortable and aware of the schedule. The tour’s duration allows ample time at each stop, balancing sightseeing with enough breathing room to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Visiting Carrickfergus Castle: A Norman Landmark

The first major stop is Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman fortress. With about 20 minutes allocated, you have time to explore the castle’s sturdy stone walls and admire its views over the harbor. The castle’s history adds a sense of stepping back centuries, and the self-guided aspect lets you take in the architecture at your own pace.

This stop offers picturesque scenes perfect for photos, especially with the historic structure contrasting against the modern port. The proximity to Belfast makes it an ideal first glimpse into Ireland’s medieval past.

Traversing the Scenic Antrim Coast Road

After Carrickfergus, the coach travels along the famed Antrim Coast Road, which is renowned for its breathtaking views. This scenic drive passes through nine Glens of Antrim, small towns, and villages, each with their own stories and legends. The landscape features rugged cliffs, lush greenery, and glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean.

The guide shares engaging folklore about leprechauns and fairies during the drive, adding a layer of local charm. The drive showcases small coastal towns like Ballygally and Glenarm, where the views are postcard-perfect and perfect for quick photo stops.

Glenarm Castle and the Spirit of Irish Heritage

The tour proceeds through Glenarm, passing Glenarm Castle and the Ballymena area. These locations highlight Ireland’s historic estates and castles, emphasizing the region’s noble past. While the castle itself is viewed from the coach, the surroundings offer plenty of photo opportunities of the estate’s gardens and land.

This part of the trip introduces travelers to Ireland’s feudal history and noble families, enriching the experience with stories and scenic landscapes.

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Exploring Carnlough Harbour and Waterfoot Caves

Next, the coach passes Carnlough Harbour, famous for its charming fishing port, and Waterfoot Caves, dramatic natural formations along the coast. The brief stops here give travelers a chance to appreciate the fresh sea air and take photos of the rugged coastline.

While not long enough for extensive exploration, these stops add authenticity and variety to the tour, mixing natural beauty with historical sites.

The Magnificent Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge

One of the most exhilarating stops is Portaneevy View Point, where the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge awaits. Travelers have the opportunity to walk across this iconic swinging bridge, suspended high above the sea, connecting the mainland to the tiny island.

From the viewpoint, you can admire views towards Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre and Rathlin Island. The guide shares stories behind the bridge’s history, making it a highlight for adventure seekers and photo enthusiasts alike. The scenic vistas and the thrill of crossing the bridge make this stop memorable.

The Dark Hedges: The Kingsroad in Game of Thrones

Next, the tour visits The Dark Hedges, a gorgeous avenue of beech trees famous as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones. This location offers about one hour for walking among the hauntingly beautiful trees and capturing photos.

Many reviews highlight this stop as a favorite, especially for fans of the series. The walk is relatively short but immersive, giving a sense of stepping into a fantasy world. The guide explains the trees’ history and their role in the TV series.

Lunch Break at a Traditional Pub (Cost Not Included)

A stop at a local pub provides a chance to enjoy a pub lunch. The cost is not included in the tour price, and reviews suggest that portions can be large—sometimes enough for two people. The food quality varies; some mention that the buffet-style meals are generous but not always satisfying.

This pause offers a relaxing break, with opportunities to chat, stretch, and sample some local cuisine.

Game of Thrones Locations: From Castle Black to Water Swamps

After lunch, the tour continues to several Game of Thrones filming sites:

• The Carnlough Harbour, where Arya Stark swam in the series.
• The Magharamorne Quarry, serving as the backdrop for Castle Black.

These locations deepen the immersion for fans, and the guide provides stories and background details about each site. The feel of walking through the actual filming locations adds a special touch to the tour.

The Giants Causeway: Nature’s Spectacle

The Giants Causeway is the final major stop, offering around 105 minutes for exploration. This UNESCO World Heritage Site features unique hexagonal basalt columns formed by ancient volcanic activity.

Visitors can walk across the stones, learn about the legend of Finn MacCool, and take in sweeping coastal views. The entry is included, allowing for self-guided exploration and plenty of time to appreciate the natural wonder. Many reviews state that the Causeway is absolutely worth the visit, and the scenic surroundings make it a perfect ending point.

Dunluce Castle: A Picturesque Ruin

On the way back, a quick 15-minute stop at Dunluce Castle allows for photo opportunities of the dramatic ruins perched on a cliff edge. Its picturesque setting adds a medieval fairy-tale vibe to the day.

Though brief, this stop leaves visitors with striking images and stories of Ireland’s tumultuous past.

Return Journey: Inland Route to Belfast

The tour concludes with a 75-minute coach ride back to Belfast along an inland route, avoiding the coastal traffic. The drop-off points are city center or Queen’s Quarter, making it convenient for travelers to continue their day.

Throughout the return, the guide shares additional stories and tips, maintaining the lively and informative atmosphere until the final stop.

Why Choose This Tour: Value, Variety, and Expert Guides

The combination of scenic drives, historic sites, and popular filming locations makes this tour a well-rounded option. The price includes entry to the Giants Causeway—a major highlight—and skip-the-line access saves time. The guides are frequently praised for being knowledgeable, humorous, and helpful, which enriches the experience.

The pace is balanced, with ample time at key stops like the Causeway and Dark Hedges. Reviews highlight the value for money, considering the many stops and sights covered in one day.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour covers a lot of ground, it does not include lunch or drinks, which travelers should budget for separately. Some reviews mention that food options at the pub can be large portions but not always satisfying, and the duration at each stop is enough for sightseeing but not extensive exploration.

The scenic stops are often crowded, so arriving early can enhance photo opportunities. The coach’s comfort is generally good, though the lack of USB ports is noted as a minor inconvenience on such a long trip.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This day trip offers a comprehensive snapshot of Northern Ireland’s natural beauty, history, and pop culture sites. It suits fans of Game of Thrones, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike. The guides’ storytelling expertise and the scenic coastal routes bring the region’s stories alive.

While the tour provides a full and busy itinerary, those seeking a relaxed, in-depth exploration of each site may find the pace slightly brisk. However, for most visitors, the well-organized stops and engaging guide make it a memorable, value-packed day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in this tour?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks. There is a lunch stop at a pub, but meals are at the traveler’s expense.

How long do I spend at the Giants Causeway?
You have about 105 minutes at the Giants Causeway to walk, explore, and take photos.

Are there any optional activities during the tour?
The main activities include sightseeing and self-guided exploration; guided walks or tours inside sites like castles are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour suits most ages, especially those interested in scenic landscapes, folklore, and filming locations. Be prepared for a full day on the coach.

What is the guide’s style?
The guides are praised for being knowledgeable, humorous, and helpful, with many reviews emphasizing their storytelling and engaging commentary.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled departure.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Allens Tours office on 27 Donegall Rd in Belfast, a central location easily accessible by public transport or taxi.

Is there a recommended item to bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised, as stops involve walking and outdoor sightseeing.

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts 8.5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Is the vehicle accessible for people with mobility issues?
The data does not specify accessibility features; travelers with specific needs should contact the provider directly.

Would you recommend this tour?
Yes, especially for those wanting a scenic, varied, and well-guided day exploring Northern Ireland’s spectacular coast, castles, and cultural sites.

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