Dublin to Winterfell: Game of Thrones Trek & Film Locations

Summary

Walk Tollymore forest, stand at Castle Ward’s gates, feel the North

You’ll walk forest trails from Dublin to real Game of Thrones locations with guides who’ve been on set, try on Stark cloaks and swords, explore Castle Ward’s ancient stones, and share laughs over lunch in Strangford port. It’s not just about seeing Winterfell—it’s about feeling part of it for a day.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the crunch of gravel under our boots as we left the bus behind in Tollymore Forest. There was this damp, mossy smell—like old leaves and wood smoke—and our guide (he’d actually played a Stark bannerman, which he mentioned with a grin) handed out these heavy cloaks. Not scratchy like I expected, but warm. We laughed at each other trying them on—someone tried their best “Winter is coming” and nearly tripped over their sword.

I didn’t expect how familiar some places would feel. The lake path shimmered just like it did in season one, except quieter—no soundtrack but birds and our own footsteps. Our guide kept pausing to show us tablet clips right where scenes were filmed; it’s weird seeing Robb Stark on a screen and then realizing you’re standing in that exact spot. At lunch in Strangford (not included, but worth it for the chips alone), I tried to order something local and butchered the name. The bartender just winked and said, “You’ll get used to us.”

Castle Ward itself—Winterfell—felt smaller than on TV but somehow more real. We wandered through old stone courtyards with banners flapping overhead (the wind picked up just then; someone joked it was “proper Northern weather”). There was a moment at the ruined abbey later when everyone went quiet—just sunlight slanting through broken arches and this sense that you could almost hear swords clashing if you listened hard enough. I still think about that view sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Game of Thrones Winterfell locations trek

• Meet at Hilton Garden Inn Dublin
• Walk in Tollymore forest (3 km)
• Lunch in Strangford port
• Visit Old Castle Ward and Riverlands sites
• Photo stop at 12th century ruins

Top questions

How long is the Game of Thrones Winterfell tour from Dublin?

The tour lasts a full day, starting at 07:45 in Dublin and returning in the evening.

Is lunch included on the Game of Thrones Winterfell trek?

No, lunch in Strangford port is not included in the ticket price.

Are costumes or props provided during the tour?

Yes, Stark cloaks, swords, shields, and banners are provided at no extra cost.

How much walking is involved on this day trip?

The tour includes two main treks: 3km in Tollymore Forest and 3km along the lakeshore at Castle Ward.

Where does the tour depart from in Dublin?

The meeting point is Hilton Garden Inn, Custom House Quay, Dublin at 07:45.

Is there an age restriction for this Game of Thrones tour?

The minimum age for travelers is 18 years old.

Who leads the tour? Are they connected to Game of Thrones?

Tours are led by guides who have worked as extras on Game of Thrones.

Are entrance fees included?

Yes, all entrance fees and extras are included in your ticket price.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from central Dublin, guided walks through Tollymore Forest and Castle Ward with behind-the-scenes tablet clips shown by former Game of Thrones extras, use of Stark cloaks and props like swords or banners (all free), all entry fees covered—you just pay for your own pub lunch in Strangford before heading back south.