Game of Thrones – Winterfell Trek from Dublin

Experience the world of Westeros without leaving Ireland. For fans of Game of Thrones, this tour offers a detailed, immersive journey through the filming sites of Northern Ireland, especially the renowned Winterfell. Starting at just over $90 per person, it’s a full-day adventure that combines stunning scenery, expert guides who have actual on-screen experience, and a chance to step into the show’s most iconic locations.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the guides are not only passionate about the show but have also been extras in multiple seasons, so their stories are authentic and packed with insider details. Second, the interactive costumes and props—cloaks, banners, swords—add a fun, immersive layer that turns a sightseeing trip into a mini role-playing event.

However, it’s worth noting this is a walking-intensive tour covering roughly 5 miles, which may not suit travelers with mobility issues or those looking for a more relaxed pace. Also, the tour is well-paced but demands moderate physical fitness, making it ideal for active fans eager to explore on foot.

This experience is best suited for dedicated Game of Thrones fans, history buffs who enjoy scenic landscapes, and those who appreciate guided storytelling with a behind-the-scenes flavor. If you’re after a full-day, authentic, and thoroughly entertaining look at Westeros’ filming locations, this tour is hard to beat.

Key Points

• Authentic Guides: Guides are actual Game of Thrones extras, offering unique behind-the-scenes stories.
• Immersive Experience: Dress as Stark, carry banners, and wield replica swords for memorable photos.
• Scenic Locations: From Tollymore Forest Park to Castle Ward, you’ll see some of Ireland’s most beautiful and historic sites.
• Walking Tour: Expect around 5 miles of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Full-day Itinerary: Starts early, with visits to multiple iconic sites, including Robb Stark’s 12th-century ruins.
• Value for Money: At roughly $91, the tour includes costumes, props, and access to behind-the-scenes content.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting in Dublin:
The day kicks off bright and early at the Hilton Garden Inn in Dublin at 7:45am. The bus ride to Northern Ireland is smooth, with plenty of time to settle in and get excited. The group size is capped at 40, so you won’t be lost in a crowd, and the experience feels personal and engaging.

Stop 1: Tollymore Forest Park
At around 10:15am, the adventure begins with a walk through Tollymore, a forest famous for its role in season one of Game of Thrones. You’ll recognize the moss-covered trees and gentle streams, which served as the setting for many scenes, including the introduction of the White Walkers. Guides, often actors themselves, will use video clips and visual effects breakdowns to show how scenes were made, adding a layer of behind-the-scenes insight. Expect about 1.5 hours here, covering roughly 3 km of scenic woodland.

What reviewers love:
Many mention that the forest’s natural beauty is stunning, and the stories from guides who have been part of the show make the experience even richer. One reviewer raved, “The tour exceeded my expectations; I laughed my lungs out!” thanks to the guides’ humorous storytelling and behind-the-scenes revelations.

Stop 2: Strangford Lough & Lunch
Around 1:00pm, the group heads to Strangford for a relaxing lunch in the port village. The stop provides a chance to enjoy some local cuisine and reflect on the morning’s sights. No extra charge here, and many reviewers mention how worthwhile the included meal options are, especially the seafood chowder.

Stop 3: Castle Ward & Winterfell
At 2:00pm, the tour visits Castle Ward, the primary filming location for Winterfell in season one. Here, visitors are encouraged to don Stark cloaks, wave banners, and hold swords—props provided on-site—making the experience personal and playful. The guide will point out specific scenes shot at each location, showing you how the real-world setting became a fantasy fortress. Expect about 1.5 hours exploring the grounds, walking through the historic castle and nearby filming spots like Walder Frey’s Twins and Robb Stark’s camp.

What reviewers enjoy:
Guests mention the fun of dressing up and taking photos, plus the detailed storytelling from guides who have actual Game of Thrones experience. One noted, “Lar’s stories made the landmarks come alive; it was like walking through the episodes.”

Stop 4: Inch Abbey & Robb Stark’s Kingship
The final stop at Inch Abbey is at 4:15pm, where you’ll see the ruins that served as Robb Stark’s coronation scene. Here, you can snap pictures of the ancient stones and imagine the epic battles and political upheavals. The tour concludes around 5:00pm, heading back to Dublin, with plenty of time to discuss favorite moments.

What you get:
Apart from the locations, the tour includes cloaks, swords, shields, and banners—which many reviews say elevate the fun factor. Behind-the-scenes DVDs and clips on tablets add a multimedia element, giving a peek into how scenes were created.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Group Size:
Traveling comfortably on a dedicated coach, the journey allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic drive through Ireland’s lush countryside. The group size of 40 ensures a lively, manageable experience, with personal interaction from the guides.

Timing & Duration:
The 11-hour day is long but well-structured. To maximize your time, be prepared for around 5 miles of walking across uneven terrain and historic sites, which some reviewers mention as a highlight but could be tiring for less-active travelers. The schedule is tight but offers a comprehensive look at the major filming locations.

Cost & Value:
Priced at about $91.50, this tour offers a lot for fans: guided storytelling from Game of Thrones extras, costumes and props for photos, and visits to key filming sites. Many reviewers feel it’s excellent value, especially considering the behind-the-scenes insights and the scenic landscapes.

Accessibility & Suitability:
The moderate physical activity means you should be comfortable walking on uneven ground. It’s ideal for fans eager to see the real set pieces and hear authentic stories from guides who appeared in the show.

Weather & Clothing:
Northern Ireland’s weather can be unpredictable, so packing waterproof clothing and sturdy shoes is wise. The cloaks provided are heavy wool, perfect for cooler days but might be warm in summer; dress accordingly.

Authentic Experiences & What We Loved

Guides with Real Show Experience:
Many reviews highlight how guides like Lar and others are extras from the series, which adds credibility and an insider’s perspective. They share stories that you won’t find in standard guidebooks, making the experience genuinely special.

Scenic and Historic Locations:
From ancient ruins like Inch Abbey to the lush forests of Tollymore, the tour combines natural beauty with historical sites. The landscape itself becomes part of the story, with many guests remarking on the stunning views.

Interactive and Fun:
The costumes, banners, and swords turn sightseeing into an engaging activity. Several reviews mention how dressing up and taking photos creates lasting memories. It’s a playful way to connect with the show’s world.

Behind-the-Scenes Content:
The inclusion of DVDs and video clips showing how scenes were shot helps deepen understanding of film-making, adding educational value for fans who want more than just pretty pictures.

Taste of Local Irish Cuisine:
A well-reviewed lunch break at Strangford offers delicious seafood chowder—another reason this tour feels well-rounded beyond just filming locations.

Conclusions: Who Is This Tour For?

This tour offers a fantastic mix of scenery, storytelling, and fun for dedicated fans of Game of Thrones. If you love the show and want to see the actual locations that brought Westeros to life, this experience will deeply satisfy, thanks to guides with first-hand experience and a well-curated itinerary.

It’s also a great option for those who appreciate historic sites, lush landscapes, and interactive activities, as the props and costumes make the day memorable beyond just sightseeing. The walking is moderate but substantial, so active travelers will enjoy the experience more.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding trip or aren’t a Game of Thrones fan, this may not be the best fit. Also, those with mobility issues should consider the walking distance and uneven terrain.

Overall, for about $91, you get a full, engaging day exploring Ireland’s scenic beauty and film history, guided by passionate experts who love sharing their behind-the-scenes stories. It’s a worthwhile splurge for fans wanting to step into Westeros and relive the magic.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 18, so it’s geared toward adult fans or travelers. The walking distance and moderate physical activity might be tiring for younger kids.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. The heavy wool cloaks provided are warm but might be too hot in summer. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, especially waterproof options.

How long is the walking?
Expect approximately 5 miles of walking across various historic and scenic sites, so be prepared for some physical activity.

Are the costumes and props included?
Yes, cloaks, banners, and swords are provided for all guests, making for fun photo opportunities.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee includes guided visits, costumes and props, behind-the-scenes DVDs, and all taxes and fees.

Are meals included?
No, but a stopping point in Strangford offers a chance to enjoy local seafood chowder and other options. Many reviews praise the quality of the lunch.

How early do I need to book?
On average, the tour is booked about 59 days in advance, so early booking is recommended to secure your spot.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience, with a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours aren’t refunded.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 40 travelers ensures an intimate experience, with plenty of opportunity for questions and interaction.

In summary, this Game of Thrones Winterfell Trek from Dublin offers a well-rounded, immersive experience packed with scenic beauty, fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, and a vibrant connection to one of TV’s most beloved series. It’s a splendid choice for fans eager to see the real locations, dress up for photos, and hear authentic stories straight from the cast’s own experiences. For those seeking a lively, physically engaging tour that brings Westeros to life, this is one adventure you won’t want to miss.