Giant’s Causeway Tour Including Game of Thrones Locations

Northern Ireland’s spectacular scenery, legendary landmarks, and a sprinkle of Game of Thrones magic—that’s what you get on the Giant’s Causeway Tour including Game of Thrones locations from Belfast. For just over $34 per person, we embark on an 8.5-hour journey that’s packed with history, geology, and cinematic moments, all delivered by a knowledgeable guide (like Stuart or Troy).

What we truly love about this tour is the blend of stunning coastal vistas with historic castles and the chance to walk among the bizarre basalt columns of the UNESCO-listed Giant’s Causeway. Plus, the stops at Dunluce Castle and the Dark Hedges give this experience a cinematic flair, especially for fans of Game of Thrones.

One thing to consider is that, while the tour is a full day, it involves a fair amount of driving, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a comfortable coach ride and don’t mind a long day on the road. It’s ideal for travelers with limited time who want to see the highlights without the hassle of planning individual excursions. Families, history buffs, geology lovers, or Game of Thrones fans will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Stunning Coastal Views: The drive along the Antrim coast offers breathtaking scenery often away from crowds.
• Rich Cultural Stops: From Carrickfergus Castle to Dunluce Castle, history is woven into every stop.
• Iconic Film Locations: The Dark Hedges and Carnlough Harbour connect the landscape to Game of Thrones lore.
• Geological Marvel: The Giant’s Causeway’s 40,000 basalt columns are a natural wonder worth the visit.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides like Stuart and Troy enhance the experience with stories and humor.
• Good Value: For the price, you get a comprehensive tour with plenty of memorable sights.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

We meet bright and early at Donegall Square West in Belfast, a central spot that’s easy to find. The tour uses a luxury coach with air-conditioning, making the long day more comfortable. The group size is capped at 150, but most reviews highlight the benefit of having a personal guide to keep things engaging and well-paced.

Carrickfergus Castle – A Norman Fortress

Our journey begins at Carrickfergus Castle, built in 1177. This well-preserved Norman stronghold has seen sieges and battles, and our guide shares stories of Irish, Scots, English, and French sieges over its 800-year history. You can explore the thick stone walls and battlements, or simply enjoy the view if you opt to stay outside. Some reviews mention that the admission is not included, so you might decide whether to pay for entry or just snap photos from outside.

Scenic Coastal Drive and Glenarm Castle

After Carrickfergus, we enjoy a scenic drive along the coast. The highlight here is Glenarm Castle, an estate dating back to the 17th century. It’s one of Ireland’s oldest inhabited castles, and you’ll appreciate the natural beauty of rolling hills and the quiet bay. This part of the tour offers a peaceful contrast to the more crowded attractions and showcases the natural beauty of the Irish landscape.

Carnlough Harbour – From Film to Nature

Next, Carnlough Harbour takes center stage. Known for its starring role in Game of Thrones Season 6, it’s the scene where Arya Stark escapes her pursuers, leaping into the calm waters. Beyond its cinematic fame, it remains a charming fishing harbor with colorful boats, traditional stone buildings, and dramatic coastal views.

Glens of Antrim – Nature’s Artwork

The tour then passes through the Glens of Antrim, a series of nine lush valleys that stretch from the plateau to the coast. Each glen has its own personality, with stories and legends that our guides share enthusiastically. These landscapes are a favorite among travelers for their green, unspoiled beauty and the sense of timelessness they evoke.

Portaneevy View Point and Carrick-a-Rede

Our next stop is the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, where you can enjoy incredible views of the 75-foot chasm separating the mainland from Carrick Island. While the actual bridge isn’t crossed during this tour, the viewpoint alone offers prime photo opportunities of rugged cliffs and azure seas. The free admission here makes it accessible to everyone.

The Dark Hedges – A Living Tunnel

No visit to Northern Ireland is complete without the Dark Hedges—a haunting avenue of beech trees planted over 300 years ago. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize this as the Kingsroad, where Arya Stark made her daring escape. But even if you’re not a series fan, the natural arching trees are a sight to behold, perfect for photos or a leisurely stroll.

Restaurants near the Dark Hedges offer the chance to enjoy a hearty lunch or a coffee break while soaking in the scenery. Many reviewers rave about the delicious lunch and the opportunity to relax before heading to Dunluce Castle.

Dunluce Castle – Medieval Drama on the Cliffs

Perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic, Dunluce Castle has inspired countless legends and tales of betrayal and tragedy. Its wild setting makes it one of the most photogenic stops. You can pay for entry to explore more deeply, or simply enjoy the ruins from the outside—both options offer fantastic photo opportunities. The castle’s association with Game of Thrones’ House Greyjoy adds a layer of cinematic appeal.

The Main Event: Giant’s Causeway

Finally, we arrive at the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The sight of 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns rising from the sea is extraordinary. The landscape feels like a giant’s playground, and the stories of Finn McCool forming it add a mythical charm.

You’ll have around 1.5 hours here—plenty of time to walk the red trail, take photos, and marvel at the geological marvel. Many reviews mention how the bizarre formations and natural beauty live up to expectations, making it worth every step.

Final Thoughts and Who Will Love It

This tour offers a well-rounded taste of Northern Ireland’s coast, castles, and cultural landmarks. The combination of stunning scenery, engaging storytelling, and cultural sites makes it a great choice for those wanting a comprehensive day out. The expert guides tend to make the experience especially memorable, blending facts with humor and warmth.

While the tour is quite full, the pacing is generally well-managed, and the coach comfort helps make the long drive more enjoyable. The shared experience and the chance for photos at each stop make it ideal for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to maximize their time.

If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, a lover of natural wonders, or simply someone looking to see the best of Northern Ireland without the hassle of organizing every detail, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Giant’s Causeway included in the price?
Yes, admission to the Giant’s Causeway is included, giving you plenty of time to explore the basalt formations.

Can I pay to enter Dunluce Castle?
Yes, you have the option to pay for entry if you wish to explore the castle more thoroughly, but viewing the ruins from outside is free.

Is the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge part of the tour?
No, currently, the Rope Bridge itself isn’t crossed on this tour, but the viewpoint offers excellent photo opportunities.

How long do we spend at each stop?
Stops vary from about 15 minutes at Carrick-a-Rede to 1 hour at The Dark Hedges and 1.5 hours at the Giant’s Causeway. The pace seems well-paced for a full day.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there are stops with options for lunch, notably near The Dark Hedges.

What’s the tour length?
Expect about 8 hours and 30 minutes, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome, but they should be accompanied by an adult. Moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 150 travelers, which allows for a lively, but not overly crowded experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there is a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely—each stop offers incredible photo opportunities, from castles to rugged coastlines and mystical landscapes.

To sum it up, this tour from Belfast offers great value for those wanting a mix of natural beauty, history, and cinematic spots in a single day. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer guided comfort, have limited time, and love to see iconic sites while enjoying storytelling from passionate guides. Whether you’re a history buff, a geology enthusiast, or a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll find plenty here to make your day memorable.