Game of Thrones – Winterfell Trek from Dublin

The Game of Thrones – Winterfell Trek from Dublin offers a comprehensive adventure for fans eager to see the real-world locations behind the legendary series. Priced at $91.53 per person, this 11-hour guided tour departs from Dublin and takes visitors south of Belfast to explore iconic filming sites, including Castle Ward, the original Winterfell during season one. With a top rating of 5.0 based on 790 reviews and a 99% recommendation rate, this experience combines scenic landscapes, detailed behind-the-scenes insights, and immersive costume elements such as cloaks, banners, and prop swords.

This tour is especially suited for Game of Thrones enthusiasts who appreciate detailed storytelling from guides that include video clips and VFX breakdowns. It’s designed for those comfortable with walking and moderate physical activity, making it ideal for fans prepared to spend roughly 1.5 to 2 hours on foot across multiple locations. A highlight is the inclusion of local guides who are all extras from the series, adding authentic anecdotes and first-hand knowledge. While the tour does not include food or merchandise, the overall value and detailed itinerary make it well worth the price for dedicated fans.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Dublin that visits Winterfell filming locations south of Belfast.
• Guides are extras from Game of Thrones, providing authentic behind-the-scenes stories.
• Includes costumes, banners, swords, and visuals such as video clips and VFX breakdowns.
• Stops include Tollymore Forest Park, Castle Ward, and Inch Abbey, showcasing scenic and historic sites.
• Walking involved is about 5 miles total, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour.

Starting at Dublin’s Custom House Quay

The tour begins early at 7:45 am with a meet-up at the Hilton Garden Inn Dublin City Centre. From there, a professional bus transports the group first to Tollymore Forest Park, where the tour explores about 3 kilometers of forested scenery that served as the backdrop to many pivotal scenes. This initial stop lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving ample time to take photos and enjoy the natural beauty.

Exploring Tollymore Forest Park’s Game of Thrones Roots

Tollymore Forest Park is a key highlight, recognized for its atmospheric woodland setting. Guests see the locations where King Robert Baratheon’s party and other scenes were filmed. The manageable 3 km walk provides scenic views, but it’s important for participants to have moderate physical fitness due to the walking involved. The park’s natural landscape offers great photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate Ireland’s lush environment.

Lunch in Strangford Lough’s Historic Port

Post-forest walk, the group heads to Strangford Lough around 1 pm for lunch in the charming port town of Strangford. The stop lasts an hour, and while the tour doesn’t include food, many guests enjoy exploring local eateries, which are known for their seafood. The setting offers a relaxing break before the afternoon visits to Castle Ward and other filming sites.

Visiting Castle Ward, Winterfell’s Filming Location in Series One

At 2 pm, the tour moves to Castle Ward, the real castle used as Winterfell during season one. Visitors explore the 12th-century ruins and estate, with the guide sharing insights into how scenes were shot and how the castle’s architecture contributed to the series. The 1 hour and 30 minutes at Castle Ward not only includes a walk around the grounds but also a detailed storytelling session that makes the fictional Winterfell feel vividly real.

Walking Through Robb Stark’s Campaign and Walder Frey’s Twins

During the visit, guests walk to locations like Robb Stark’s camp and Walder Frey’s Twins, gaining context for the series’ key battles and alliances. The guide’s stories are filled with behind-the-scenes details, thanks to their first-hand experience as a series extra. This part of the tour emphasizes Ireland’s historic sites that doubled as Westeros landscapes.

Photos at Inch Abbey, King in the North

The final stop around 4:15 pm is at Inch Abbey, a 12th-century ruin. This spot is where Robb Stark was crowned King in the North, making it a significant moment for fans. The 30-minute stop allows for photo opportunities and to soak in the atmospheric remains of the abbey, which has appeared in multiple series scenes. The ruins add a dramatic medieval backdrop fitting for Westeros’ grandeur.

Immersive Costumes and Behind-the-Scenes Content

Throughout the tour, guests enjoy wearing winter cloaks, carrying banners, and wielding prop swords and shields—all provided at the start. This immersive element enhances the experience, making it feel like stepping into Westeros. The guides, being series extras, show video clips and VFX breakdowns on tablets and DVDs, revealing how the magic of the series was created. Many reviews praise how these insights bring scenes to life and deepen appreciation for the series’ production.

Practical Details and Group Size

The tour operates with a maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience with plenty of interaction. The meeting point is near public transportation at Dublin’s Custom House Quay, and the tour ends back at the starting point. The bus ride is described as comfortable, and guides are known for their enthusiasm and storytelling skills.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

Participants should have moderate physical fitness due to walking approximately 5 miles during the day and navigating uneven terrain at historic sites. The tour is suitable for adults aged 18 and over, and careful footwear is recommended for walking parts. While the tour involves some outdoor activity, most locations are accessible for those with a reasonable level of mobility.

Pricing and Booking

The price of $91.53 per person reflects the inclusion of cloaks, swords, banners, all behind-the-scenes content, and guided storytelling. All taxes and fees are covered, offering clear value for a full-day experience with immersive elements. Booking approximately 59 days in advance is typical, highlighting the tour’s popularity.

Customer Experiences and Ratings

With a 5.0-star rating based on 790 reviews, the tour is highly praised for knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and authentic storytelling. Reviews mention Lars and Lar as guides who share fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, making the locations come alive. Many note the fun of wearing cloaks and taking photos with swords as memorable highlights. A few reviews mention walking challenges or caution with the bus driver’s driving style, but overall, feedback is overwhelmingly positive.

Cancellation Policies and Practical Tips

Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. The experience is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered. It’s advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a full day of walking. The group size is limited to 40, so booking early is recommended to secure a spot.

Summary of the Tour’s Strengths and Considerations

The Winterfell Trek from Dublin delivers a well-organized, immersive experience for Game of Thrones fans wanting to see Ireland’s filming locations firsthand. The authentic guides, props, and visual content stand out as key features. Stunning landscapes and historic sites layered with series stories create a vivid journey. The main consideration is the walking distance, which requires a moderate level of fitness.

This tour offers excellent value and a chance to step into the world of Westeros, making it perfect for dedicated fans and history buffs alike. Fans who enjoy detailed storytelling and don’t mind a full day of walking will find this experience rewarding and memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers guided access to locations, costumes and props like cloaks and swords, video clips and behind-the-scenes content, and all taxes and fees.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 11 hours, starting at 7:45 am and returning to Dublin around 6:45 pm.

What locations will I visit?
Guests visit Tollymore Forest Park, Strangford Lough for lunch, Castle Ward (Winterfell in season one), and Inch Abbey. These sites showcase both scenic landscapes and series filming spots.

Is walking involved?
Yes, expect to walk about 5 miles across multiple sites, including outdoor ruins and forests. Good walking shoes are recommended.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable, and weather-related cancellations are fully refunded or rescheduled.

Are guides experienced?
All guides are seasonal extras from the series, offering authentic stories and behind-the-scenes insights that bring the series’ locations to life.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes are advised due to the walking involved and outdoor nature of the sites.

Is food included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included but stops are scheduled in local towns, offering plenty of options.

What is the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 40 travelers, ensuring a personal experience with plenty of interaction.

Can I take photos?
Yes, the locations are highly photogenic, and the props like cloaks and swords offer unique photo opportunities—just be mindful of other guests when posing with costumes.

How do I book?
Booking is recommended several weeks in advance, especially during peak seasons, through the provided links or contact details.