April 2014

Your excursion opens as you board your motor coach and travel to Castle Ward, an 18th-century National Trust estate beautifully located on the shores of Strangford Lough.
 

During your visit, you will see why Castle Ward is an ideal shooting location for Game of Thrones. Described by show creator David Benioff as ”The Sopranos in Middle-earth,” HBO’s fantasy drama mixes history with surrealism, using Ireland’s picturesque and sometimes dark settings to great effect. 
 

Find yourself tucked into the space between reality and fantasy as you visit the estate, one of the most complete demesne landscapes to survive in Ireland. The grand residence showcases both Gothic and Classical styles, with one façade built in a Palladian style and the opposite side featuring Georgian Gothic characteristics with pointed windows, battlements and finials.
 

Further immerse yourself into days of old with a chance to try the medieval sport of archery. Then view a film revealing the special effects used to transform Castle Ward into the land of Winterfell.
 

Afterward, board a minivan for the brief transfer to Audley’s Castle, a 15th-century tower house named after its 16th-century owner, John Audley. Part of the Castle Ward estate, Audley’s Castle evokes a feeling of history, with its sturdy stone construction, austere square turrets and magical location on the lough.
 

Become acquainted with the castle’s role in Game of Thrones and play a game yourself as you test your knowledge by matching actual sites to scenes from the show.
 

Unfortunately, credits are about to role on your Game of Thrones excursion. Enjoy a photo opportunity with the some of the show’s elaborate costumes before the joining your motor coach for the one-hour return to the pier and your Crystal ship.