Recently I had the opportunity to visit the Game of Thrones studios in Banbridge, Northern Ireland. This was a unique and wonderful opportunity to get to know all the work and effort that went into making this production. I was able to have an immersive experience on the sets of this show, see the costumes, props, special effects process, and everything necessary to produce the show.

This is an experience that without a doubt any true fan of Game of Thrones should have, and it is not only for the fans but for anyone interested in how these types of productions are made. This tour is for all types of audiences, so it is an experience worth having and not missing.

Tour entrance

Tickets and how to get there

Buying tickets for the tour is very simple. From the studios' website, you can access all the rates they have available, including the spectacular student rate tickets. Likewise, they also offer other types of rates on their tickets, such as prices for seniors and tickets for children or family groups.

The tickets include round-trip transport from different points in Belfast to the location. If you prefer to go by car, the tickets also have parking included. It's easy to get to and doesn't take long, just 40 minutes from Belfast City Centre.

Going beyond the wall

At the end of the purchase, it will also allow you to purchase other types of offers that they have available, such as an afternoon tea for when you have finished the tour, or even a lunch. You can include this in your packages to enjoy this experience in its entirety.

What you have to know…

Contrary to popular belief, this experience isn't solely designed for fans of the show. The tour is for all types of audiences, including the little ones, so don't hesitate to go because you won't get bored. Obviously for fans of the show, as is my case, it will represent an indescribable experience to be inside the real sets of this wonderful production.

At the red keep

However, people who have not seen the show will also be able to enjoy this tour to the fullest, as they will be able to discover the hard work involved in making a show of this magnitude, what is required in terms of artistic direction, planning before recordings, musical production, makeup, special effects, costumes, the design of the scripts and many more things.

There is also fun for children because within the tour you can find many interactive activities that allow you to get more involved in the experience, such as designing your shield and testing your aim with the bow and arrow, among others.

For those who watched the show

On this tour, you will be able to find the sets of the most iconic places from the show, such as The Red Keep, the throne room where you can see the coveted Iron Throne, Dragonstone with its famous table with the shape of Westeros, Castle Black and the Grand Hall of Winterfell.

In the throne room

It's amazing to walk around these sets and imagine all the things that happened, to think that the actors and the entire production team were working hard for a long time on these sets so that we could enjoy this wonderful show in our homes.

You will also be able to see the mannequins of important characters, such as the Night King and his army or the giant Wun Wun who played a very important role in the Battle of the Bastards.

Souvenirs and good food

Keep in mind that the tour can last around 2 hours, so it is normal that at some point during the tour, you might feel hungry and want to take a break. Don't worry about this, on the tour you can find two cafeterias, one at the beginning and one in the middle of the tour, so you can buy your refreshments or snacks and recharge with all the energy to continue your experience.

Sitting on the iron throne replica

You can also take all the souvenirs you want with you at the official store of the studios where you can find all the exclusive merchandise of the show. You'll also be able to take the best picture of them all sitting on a replica of the Iron Throne. Don't think twice and enjoy this experience while studying in Queen's.

Find out more

Game of Thrones filming locations

Isa's experience via Queen's Instagram

Beyond Belfast

Information for students from Colombia

Isabella Barros De La Rosa Violence, Terrorism and Security | Postgraduate Student | Colombia Hello, my name is Isabella Barros, I am 24 years old and I am from a beautiful city on the Caribbean coast of Colombia called Barranquilla. I am currently pursuing my master's in Violence, Terrorism and Security at Queen’s. I am very into running and outdoor activities. That's why Belfast is so amazing to live in, because of the landscapes, and the spaces for this kind of hobby. Besides running and studying, you can find me in any bookstore, wandering around the city, or enjoying a pleasant coffee in a cute cafe!