If you’re a fan of HBO’s popular fantasy television series, Game of Thrones, which is based on the literary works of George R.R. Martin, you should know that many of the program’s pivotal scenes were (and are) filmed in Belfast, Ireland or very close to the city of Belfast.
Today, it is possible to visit Belfast and view these Game of Thrones locations, up close and personal.
Currently, the show is being filmed in the city’s famed Titanic Quarter, which is the home to many film and television productions.
In fact, Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, the Duke of Edinburgh, recently visited the Game of Thrones set in Belfast, in order to look around and chat with the show’s cast and crew.
Game of Thrones Is Filmed at Paint Hall Studios
To the disappointment of many, the Queen did not deign to sit on the “Iron Throne” as she toured the set at Paint Hall Studios!
While you may not have the clout to visit the sets and to liaise with the stars of the show, such as Lena Headey (Cersei Lannister) and Kit Harington (John Snow), as the Queen and Duke were fortunate enough to do, you are free to explore the outdoor locations whenever you wish.
To help you learn more about Belfast’s connection to this critically-acclaimed fantasy series, we’ve created a fun quick guide…
You may pursue this adventure on your own or sign on for a guided tour.
Whatever you choose, you’ll find that visiting these outdoor locations will give you a closer connection to the bloodthirsty and supernatural world of A Game of Thrones: A Song of Fire and Ice…
Where to Go
Ballintoy Harbour
Many scenes from Season Four were filmed at picturesque Ballintoy Harbour, which is displayed at the top left of this blog post.
This harbour and its beach represented Pyke and the Iron Islands.
You’ll see Ballintoy Harbour when you watch Theon Greyjoy arrive at the Iron Islands.
In addition, this exterior location was utilized when Theon Greyjoy admired his ship, the Sea Bitch.
Ballintoy also functioned as a backdrop when Greyjoy met his sister, Yara.
Old Quarry at Magheramone
If you want to see the exterior set for the entrance of Castle Black, you’ll find it at an old quarry in Northern Ireland.
For this set, designers crafted The Wall from timber and rock. This Magheramone location was chosen for its ruggedness and authenticity.
Set designers found the locale perfect as its remaining quarry features offered the ideal look for certain scenes.
However, you won’t be able to view the Ice Wall here, as it was created via CGI technology…
Cushendun Caves at County Antrim
These beautiful caves developed over the course of four hundred million years and their unique shapes are believed to have been triggered by endless harsh weather conditions.
These caves were the place where Melisandre birthed her “shadow” infant, after she was taken to shore by Davos Seaworthy.
Located near the seaside town of Cushenden, the caves themselves offered little comfort to cast and crew, who needed to bundle up between scenes in order to stay warm!
Celebrate Ireland with Traditional Irish Jewelry
Belfast and surrounding area were selected by Game of Thrones producers due to their stunning beauty.
If you also appreciate the beauty of the Emerald Isle, why not celebrate your love of this country by wearing a piece of traditional Irish jewelry?
Inspired by medieval Celtic design, traditional Irish jewelry does have a “Game of Thrones” look, and it’s just so much fun to wear.
For example, our Silver Tree of Life Earrings, which are hand-crafted right in the Emerald Isle, have a mystical appearance and so much symbolism.
The Tree of Life is an ancient Celtic symbol – its leaves represent the heavens, its trunk represents the earthy plane and its roots represent the Underworld…
These earrings are stunning examples of traditional Irish craftsmanship and each pair is available for just $84.00.