Northern Ireland Travel Guide
Northern Ireland, despite its small size, boasts coastal beauty, verdant green glens, and picturesque towns. It’s a wonderful addition to any trip around Ireland and Scotland, particularly for avid Game of Thrones fans, as the region is dotted with numerous filming locations from the series.
Northern Ireland Stats
Official Languages: Irish
Population: 2 million
Capital City: Belfast
Currency: Pound sterling
Power Outlet: Type G
Giants Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway is truly a sight to behold, so remarkable in its appearance that it almost seems surreal. Stretching along the coastline, you’ll find perfectly formed hexagonal columns clustered together at the water’s edge, creating a mesmerizing and unforgettable spectacle.
How to Visit the Giant’s Causeway (+ Photos & Helpful Tips)
Filming Sites
Game of Thrones Filming Sites in Northern Ireland…What You Should Really Expect!
Northern Ireland is a hot destination for Game of Thrones fans. With numerous sites to visit, like the ruins of old castles, scenic coastlines, and dark hedges of trees, Northern Ireland is perfect for filming scenes in Westeros.
Top Experiences in Northern Ireland
Causeway Coastal Route: The Causeway Coastal Route, a picturesque drive in Northern Ireland, winds along the stunning coast of the Glens of Antrim, showcasing major destinations such as Derry city, Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede, Torr Head, and castle ruins. For those planning a brief visit to Northern Ireland, prioritizing this scenic coastal route is a must-do.
Giant’s Causeway: The Giant’s Causeway is truly a sight to behold, so remarkable in its appearance that it almost seems surreal. Stretching along the coastline, you’ll find perfectly formed hexagonal columns clustered together at the water’s edge, creating a mesmerizing and unforgettable spectacle.
Derry: This quaint seaside city has a colorful history, from Scottish and English disputes, its pivotal role as a WWII naval base, and the dark period during the Troubles. Despite its past, Derry has become a refreshing town to see, and its location on the northern coast makes it a great base for exploration.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: For those looking for a neat stop along the northern coast, walk along the rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede hanging 25 feet above the waves below. Note that this has become an extremely crowded destination, even when we were there in 2016.
Dunluce Castle: Dunluce Castle is one of Northern Ireland’s most popular castle ruins for its beautiful coastal backdrop.
Dark Hedges: You might recognize this iconic location as the Kings Road from the popular TV show Game of Thrones. The Dark Hedges is a short road flanked by ancient, gnarled beech trees, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere. However, be prepared for crowds, especially during the middle of the day when it tends to get busy with visitors.
Belfast: Northern Ireland’s capital city is a treasure trove of historic districts and charming streets waiting to be explored. One of its top attractions is the Titanic Museum, offering a fascinating insight into the construction of the ship. Food enthusiasts should not miss a visit to St. George’s Food Market, a delightful indoor Victorian market brimming with culinary delight.
Best Time to Visit Northern Ireland
The most picturesque seasons to visit Northern Ireland are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November), offering stunning landscapes and fewer crowds. However, summer is also an excellent time to visit, with longer days, warm weather, and plenty of sunshine to enjoy outdoor activities.