Northern Ireland offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to all interests, whether you’re a die-hard fan of Game of Thrones, an outdoor adventurer, or a history lover. For fans of the series, visiting the Game of Thrones Studio Tour provides an immersive experience in the actual filming locations and behind-the-scenes secrets. If you’re after fresh air and unique encounters, the Guided Scenic Alpaca Trekking or the Tollymore Forest Trek bring the landscape to life with local guides and beautiful scenery. Those interested in Irish culture can explore St. Patrick’s Way, or enjoy a musical evening on the Ballycastle Traditional Music Trail. Outdoor activities like kayaking or foraging make for active days, while historical tours round out the list.
We’ve curated a list of the 13 best tours in Northern Ireland, balancing adventure, culture, and entertainment. Each experience offers something special, whether it’s exploring iconic Game of Thrones filming locations or discovering the natural beauty of the Mourne Mountains — read on to see which tours match your style.
1. Game of Thrones Studio Tour Admission Ticket
At number 1, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour turns fans into part of the story. Located at Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge, this tour offers a full immersion into the world of Westeros. You’ll walk through authentic sets such as Winterfell’s Great Hall and King’s Landing’s throne room, with original costumes and props on display. The tour includes insights into how the epic battles and visual effects were created, making it a real treat for anyone who loves the series.
What makes this experience stand out is the chance to get up close to dragon skulls in the crypt of King’s Landing or explore the Winterfell Great Hall. Interactive exhibits, storyboards, and behind-the-scenes footage deepen your understanding of the show’s production. Plus, complimentary parking makes logistics easy. Rated 5.0/5 by over 285 reviewers, it’s a must for superfans or anyone curious about how TV magic happens.
Bottom Line: If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, this tour offers unmatched access and insight into the series. It’s a well-rounded, engaging experience that’s worth every penny.
2. Guided Scenic Alpaca Trekking Experience Northern Ireland
Number 2 on our list is the Guided Scenic Alpaca Trekking Experience, a charming outdoor activity perfect for families or those seeking a peaceful nature escape. The tour takes place on Ireland’s only purpose-built alpaca trail, where a gentle alpaca will accompany you along a 1.4km stone pathway through farmland, woodland, and wetlands. The route includes crossing bridges and wandering over undulating terrain, with plenty of opportunities for photos.
What makes this tour truly special is the combination of adorable alpacas, scenic countryside, and a relaxing stop at a coffee trailer on a small island. It’s a leisurely, up-close encounter with these friendly creatures, yet also offers a dose of fresh air and natural beauty. At just under $70 per group, it provides excellent value, especially for animal lovers or anyone needing a gentle break from sightseeing.
Bottom Line: A delightful and tranquil experience, perfect for families or anyone wanting a slow-paced outdoor adventure with adorable animals.
3. Game of Thrones – Tollymore Forest Trek
The Tollymore Forest Trek ranks high because it combines stunning woodland scenery with iconic Game of Thrones filming locations. Located in the forest that featured heavily in the series, this guided walk covers about 2 miles and visits three legendary spots from the show. You’ll explore the wildling pit from the opening episode and stand at the campfire where Tyrion and Jon Snow shared a quiet moment.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the small group size ensures a personal experience. Cloaks are provided to help you get into the Thrones mood, and rain ponchos keep you dry if the weather turns. A highlight is learning behind-the-scenes tales about the forest’s role in the series.
Rated 5.0/5 by fans, this tour is perfect for series fans and outdoor lovers alike. The blend of lush scenery and cinematic history makes it a top choice.
Bottom Line: For a manageable, story-rich walk in the woods that also offers spectacular scenery, this tour hits the mark.
4. Muddy Tots Go Wild Forest School Ballynahinch County Down
If you’re organizing a day out for young children, Muddy Tots Go Wild Forest School promises hours of muddy, messy fun. With activities like swinging in tree hammocks, mud kitchen cooking, mini-beast hunts, and muddy crafts, it’s an active, engaging experience designed to stimulate little minds and bodies. The highlight involves Sparky the friendly dragon, who teaches kids about fire safety and fairy tales around the woodland fire pit.
This tour is ideal for parents seeking a day of natural play and exploration. The price—just under $7 per person—makes it accessible for families. The relaxed, unstructured environment is perfect for kids to discover nature at their own pace, with plenty of surprises and sensory experiences.
Bottom Line: A fantastic choice for families with young children looking to enjoy outdoor play and nature learning in a safe, fun setting.
5. 1/2 Day Pilgrim’s Walk on St Patrick’s Way and Lunch
Number 5 offers a cultural and scenic hike along St. Patrick’s Way, blending history, legend, and beautiful landscapes. This small-group tour covers notable sites like Saul Church, Inch Abbey, and the St. Patrick Centre, with plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere and legends. The tour includes a traditional Irish lunch at Saul’s Barn Pub, adding a hearty local touch.
The guide shares stories about Patrick’s journey and Ireland’s spiritual history, making this more than just a walk. The tour’s intimate size ensures personalized attention, and all entrance fees are included. It’s a great mix of history, scenery, and authentic Irish culture.
Rated 5.0/5, this tour suits travelers interested in walking history, religious sites, and legendary stories. It’s a peaceful way to connect with Irish roots.
Bottom Line: A thoughtful, scenic, and cultural experience ideal for history buffs and those wanting a meaningful day outdoors.
6. Unforgettable Beauty of Northern Ireland from an E-Bike
Number 6 is a flexible, multi-day E-Bike experience that takes you across Mourne Mountains, coastal villages, forests, and even the famous Game of Thrones locations at Tollymore Forest (see more). The electric bikes make exploring hills and trails easier, allowing you to cover more ground comfortably.
The package is perfect for active travelers wanting to customize their itinerary, with routes suitable for all fitness levels. You can ride along the Mourne Coastal Route, explore beaches, or pedal through historic forests. The tour’s flexibility and the scenery combine for a memorable outdoor adventure.
Rated 5.0/5, it’s especially good for those who want an active, self-guided exploration with plenty of options.
Bottom Line: Ideal for energetic travelers who prefer independence but want supported, guided routes through Northern Ireland’s best landscapes.
7. Saint Patrick Centre Exhibition Experience
Number 7 is the Saint Patrick Centre, a must-visit for anyone curious about Ireland’s patron saint. Prebook your ticket to skip queues and enjoy an engaging exhibition that includes an IMAX film and sculptures about Patrick’s life. The exhibition explores his origins, missionary work, and legacy, offering a comprehensive view of his influence.
It’s a compact, well-curated experience suitable for all ages. The interactive displays make learning about Patrick’s story accessible and engaging, especially for those with limited time. It’s a good way to deepen your understanding of Irish culture and faith.
Rated 4.5/5, it’s perfect for history and religion enthusiasts or anyone wanting a concise, immersive introduction.
Bottom Line: A highly recommended visit for those interested in Ireland’s legendary saint and his enduring impact.
8. Ballycastle Traditional Music Trail
Number 8 offers a lively, intimate music and cultural tour of Ballycastle. Led by two local musicians, you’ll visit three historic pubs where live traditional Irish music, stories, and dances take center stage. It’s an authentic experience that celebrates Ireland’s musical heritage.
This private tour is perfect for music lovers or anyone wanting to connect with local culture. The guides share stories behind the tunes and teach some Irish dances, creating a fun, participatory atmosphere. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and is free of admission charges, focusing on the cultural experience.
Bottom Line: An engaging way to enjoy Irish music and stories firsthand, suitable for all ages and music fans.
9. Adult Foraging Walk & Bushcraft Cookery Course for Beginners
For those interested in wild foods and sustainable living, this foraging and bushcraft course offers practical skills in a natural setting. Led by an expert, you’ll learn how to responsibly harvest wild edibles, respecting nature’s limits. The course includes a walk through local flora, with tips on identifying and foraging edible plants, followed by bushcraft cooking techniques.
This hands-on experience is perfect for eco-conscious travelers and foodies, blending nature, science, and culinary skills. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it an enriching, educational outing. It’s a rare chance to learn sustainable foraging practices while enjoying the Irish outdoors.
Rated 5.0/5, it’s an excellent choice for curious minds eager to discover wild foods and bushcraft skills.
Bottom Line: Great for eco-minded travelers or anyone wanting to learn about wild edibles and responsible gathering.
10. From Belfast : Sit-On-Top Kayak Experience
Number 10 invites you to explore Castlewellan Lake by kayak. With rentals available for all skill levels, you can paddle at your own pace and enjoy views of the Mourne Mountains from the water. The tour provides kayaks, safety gear, showers, changing facilities, and a nearby coffee dock—making it a complete outdoor package.
This activity suits adventure seekers and families alike, offering both relaxation and an active challenge. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it an ideal introduction to outdoor water sports in Northern Ireland. The experience is flexible, with starting times available throughout the day.
Bottom Line: Perfect for water lovers and families wanting a fun, relaxed way to experience the Mourne Mountains from a different perspective.
11. From Belfast: Strangford Lough Kings and Queens Tour
Number 11 explores Northern Ireland’s regal and religious sites on a day trip from Belfast. Visiting castles, monasteries, and stately homes such as Killeyleagh Castle and Mount Stewart, this tour offers a broad look at Ireland’s historic architecture and landscapes.
The tour includes visits to Nendrum Monastic Site, Sketrick Castle, and Saul Church, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. It’s a good fit for history and architecture buffs wanting a rundown of the region’s royal and ecclesiastical landmarks in one day.
Rated 4.4/5, it’s a well-rounded cultural excursion that balances sightseeing and storytelling.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers interested in Ireland’s castles, monasteries, and historical estates, with convenience included.
12. Muddy Tots Go Wild Forest School – Ballynahinch Co. Down
Number 12 repeats the appeal of outdoor muddy play, this time emphasizing free play, den building, crafts, and fire-side stories. It’s designed to give children hours of hands-on fun in the woods, with activities like making mud pictures, roasting marshmallows, and exploring nature.
Ideal for families seeking a relaxed, engaging outdoor experience, the activities encourage creativity and physical activity. The tour lasts about 2 hours and includes hot chocolate, making it cozy as well as messy.
Bottom Line: A playful, natural adventure for young kids and families who love outdoor fun and simple pleasures in nature.
13. Titanic Belfast and City Tour
For a comprehensive introduction to Belfast, the Titanic Belfast and City Tour combines the iconic Titanic exhibit with highlights of the city’s streets and landmarks. The Titanic Museum admission is included, with ample time to explore the exhibition’s exhibits and history.
On the city tour, you’ll see Belfast’s top sights, with flexible options to customize your visit. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for travelers short on time. It’s a well-rounded look at Northern Ireland’s largest city and its maritime legacy.
Rated 4.7/5, this tour offers a good balance of cultural insights and interactive exhibits, suitable for all ages.
Bottom Line: For a complete Belfast experience, this tour combines history, culture, and the city’s story in one satisfying day.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
Choosing the ideal tour depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re a Game of Thrones fanatic, the studio tour (see more) offers full immersion, while outdoor lovers may prefer the Alpaca Trekking (read more) or E-Biking adventures (check routes). History buffs interested in Patrick’s story will find the Pilgrim’s Walk (more info) and Saint Patrick Centre (see details) compelling.
Families with young children should consider the Muddy Tots Forest School (details) for mud and play, or outdoor water activities like kayaking (see more). For those interested in Irish culture and music, the Ballycastle Traditional Music Trail (learn more) offers authentic local entertainment.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons like summer or holidays. Consider your fitness level, interest in history or outdoor activities, and how much time you want to dedicate to each experience.
Final Thoughts
Northern Ireland’s tours range from cinematic set visits and outdoor adventures to cultural walks and family fun — each offering a unique window into this fascinating region. Whether you’re drawn to the epic landscapes with an electric bike, eager to relive Game of Thrones scenes, or want to learn about St. Patrick, there’s something here for everyone.
For fans of the series, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour (see details) is hard to beat for its comprehensive behind-the-scenes access. Outdoor enthusiasts may prefer the E-Bike tour or the alpaca trek, which combine adventure with scenery. Families will find plenty of engaging options, from muddy outdoor play to sailing adventures.
Whatever your preference, these tours promise an authentic and memorable experience. Be sure to book early and choose the options best suited to your interests and travel style — Northern Ireland’s rich tapestry of sights and stories awaits.