Exploring the Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones Sites from Belfast
If you’re looking for an immersive day trip that combines natural beauty, historical sites, and a splash of pop culture, this full-day tour from Belfast fits the bill perfectly. For around 8.5 hours, you’ll visit iconic locations like the Giants Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and the Dark Hedges, all while hearing stories of folklore, history, and the making of Game of Thrones. The tour is operated by Allens Tours, with plenty of reviews praising guides, scenery, and the overall value.
What we love most about this experience is the careful balance of scenic drives and stops, plus the opportunity to learn about Ireland’s myths and legends along the way. The knowledgeable guides make these stories come alive, making even the most famous sights feel fresh and personal. Another highlight: the stunning coastal scenery that unfolds as you travel along the Antrim coast, with views that make it clear why this route is often called one of the most beautiful drives in the UK.
However, a potential consideration is the long day—covering many sites means a lot of travel time, so if you’re sensitive to bus trips or rushing from location to location, this might feel a little tight. Still, the pace allows you to see a lot without feeling overwhelmed, making it ideal for history buffs, Game of Thrones fans, and nature lovers alike.
This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy well-organized, guided excursions that blend culture, scenery, and storytelling. If you’re eager to see Northern Ireland’s famous landmarks without the hassle of planning, and appreciate good commentary along the way, you’ll find this tour both satisfying and worthwhile.
Key Points
- Beautiful coastal scenery and scenic drives along the Antrim coast.
- Expert guides who tell engaging stories about folklore, history, and Game of Thrones.
- Multiple stops including the Giants Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, and Dark Hedges.
- Great value, with entry included to major sights and plenty of time at each location.
- Comfortable transportation with air conditioning, making the long day easier.
- Limited food options during the day, so plan to bring snacks or budget for a pub lunch.
In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
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Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins at the Allen Tours office in Belfast, where you’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. With over 5900 reviews and a solid 4.4/5 rating, travelers consistently praise the professionalism of the guides and the smooth coordination of the day. The journey is quite scenic right from the start, with the guide providing a running commentary about what’s ahead. We found that the large, well-maintained bus made the long hours more bearable, especially with frequent stops and good airflow.
Carrickfergus Castle: A Medieval Welcome
After a brief drive, the first stop is Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman fortress sitting proudly on the harbor. This is a great chance to stretch your legs and walk around the grounds. The reviews mention that visitors enjoy the free time here to explore and snap photos of the castle and harbor scenes. It’s a good way to get a feel for Ireland’s medieval past before the scenic drive ahead.
The Coastal Route and Glens of Antrim
As you travel along the famous Antrim Coast Road, you’ll pass through several charming towns and villages while hearing stories of Irish folklore, such as tales of leprechauns and fairies. The route through the nine Glens of Antrim is often described as breathtaking, with lush landscapes and rugged coastline. The drive provides plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the often dramatic weather adding atmosphere.
More Great Tours NearbyGlenarm and Carnlough: A Peek into Local Life
Passing through towns like Glenarm and Carnlough Harbour, you’ll get a glimpse of everyday life in this quiet corner of Ireland. Many reviews mention how these stops add authenticity to the trip—you’re not just sightseeing but experiencing the local scenery and charm. The Waterfoot Caves and Cushendun Curfew House are picturesque stops that spark curiosity about local legends and history.
Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge: A Major Highlight
The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a favorite for many, offering both stunning views and a dash of adrenaline. You will have time to admire the views back toward Scotland and Rathlin Island. Several reviewers point out that hearing the stories behind the bridge enhances the experience, making it more than just a photo op. The fact that entry is included adds great value, especially as many other tours charge extra for this.
The Dark Hedges: The King’s Road from Game of Thrones
One of the most Instagrammable spots on the route, the Dark Hedges, is a must-see for fans of the series. The tour offers about an hour here to walk among the famous tangled trees, with many reviewers saying it’s a perfect spot for photos. One reviewer noted that the time here is just right, giving enough space to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed.
Lunch Break and Whiskey Tasting
The tour includes a lunch stop at a traditional pub, where reviews suggest the portion sizes are generous, but some also warn about the cost and quality—so you might prefer to bring snacks or eat beforehand if you’re budget-conscious. The Old Bushmills Distillery is included later in the day for a quick whiskey tasting and shopping, offering a fun flavor of local craftsmanship.
Giants Causeway: The Day’s Main Attraction
The Giants Causeway is undoubtedly the star of the show. You’ll have about 105 minutes here to walk along the iconic hexagonal stones, learn about the legend of Finn MacCool, and admire the rugged coastline. Several reviews emphasize that the walks are manageable and the views spectacular, even in less-than-perfect weather. The opportunity to self-guide on the Causeway makes it flexible—some prefer to linger and take photos, while others explore the visitor center or enjoy the scenery.
Dunluce Castle and Return to Belfast
A brief stop at Dunluce Castle offers a scenic photo opportunity of the ruins perched dramatically over the sea. The return trip takes about 75 minutes, giving you a chance to relax and reflect on a day packed with sights. Many travelers praise the knowledge of the guides during the drive, making the long hours both informative and entertaining.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out?
Guides and storytelling are frequently highlighted as the main value. Several reviews mention guides like Stewart, Lindsay, Kevin, and Mark as knowledgeable and humorous, adding personality and local insight that elevate the experience. The stories of Irish folklore, Game of Thrones, and the legends behind each site bring the sights to life, making the day more memorable.
The scenery along the coast and in the Glens of Antrim is consistently described as stunning. Whether it’s the rugged cliffs, lush greenery, or the iconic trees of the Dark Hedges, these natural vistas are the highlight for many.
Value for money is another recurring theme. With entry fees included for key sites and a large portion of the day dedicated to sightseeing, many reviewers feel they received good bang for their buck, especially considering the convenience.
Potential Downsides
The main consideration is the length of the day. Covering many sites means a lot of bus travel, and some may find the schedule somewhat rushed, especially if they want more time at each stop. The lunch options can also be hit or miss—portions are large, but the quality or price may not suit everyone. Lastly, the weather in Ireland can be unpredictable; a rainy day might temper the scenery, but it doesn’t seem to dampen overall enjoyment.
Who Would Love This Tour?
This trip is an excellent pick for history and folklore enthusiasts, Game of Thrones fans eager to see filming locations, and scenery lovers wanting to experience the stunning Irish coast. It’s also perfect for those who prefer a guided, hassle-free day with a lot of sights packed into one trip. If you’re comfortable with a long bus ride and enjoy storytelling and sightseeing in one, this tour offers a rich, well-rounded experience.
FAQs
How long is the total tour?
The entire day lasts approximately 8.5 hours, including travel, sightseeing, and breaks, making it a full but manageable day.
Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned buses that are generally well-regarded by travelers for comfort on long trips.
Are entrance fees included?
Most major attractions such as the Giants Causeway and Dark Hedges are included in the price, adding excellent value.
Can I explore on my own at the Giants Causeway?
Yes, you get about 105 minutes here for self-guided walking, photos, and enjoying the scenery at your own pace.
Is food included?
No, meals are not included. There is a pub stop, but reviews suggest bringing snacks or planning for additional costs if you want higher-quality food.
Are guides knowledgeable?
Very much so. Many reviews praise guides for their storytelling, humor, and local knowledge.
What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While the tour runs year-round, the experience is especially beautiful in good weather, but rain won’t ruin the scenery entirely—just bring appropriate gear.
Are there any restrictions for walking or physical activity?
The walks are manageable, but sturdy shoes are recommended, especially at the Causeway and Dunluce Castle.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy sightseeing, stories, and outdoor walks will find this trip engaging.
How do I book or cancel?
You can reserve with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk choice.
To sum it up, this Giants Causeway and Game of Thrones tour from Belfast offers a fantastic mix of natural beauty, cultural storytelling, and pop culture sights—all within a well-organized day. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail. With friendly guides, breathtaking scenery, and included entry to major sites, it’s a trip that delivers on both value and memorable moments. Whether you’re a fan of Irish myths, stunning coastlines, or the epic visuals of Game of Thrones, this tour will leave you with plenty to talk about long after you return home.
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