Where Legends Live: Journey Through Northern Ireland’s Westeros
A century before the events of Game of Thrones, two unlikely heroes roamed the lands of Westeros — the honourable yet inexperienced Ser Duncan the Tall and his sharp‑witted young squire, Egg. The highly anticipated A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms arrives on HBO Max in January 2025, with Northern Ireland once again taking centre stage as the magical backdrop of this new adventure.
Set in an era when the Targaryens still ruled the Iron Throne and dragons remained a living memory, the story follows Dunk and Egg as they face formidable foes, shape their destinies, and embark on daring exploits across a world brimming with danger and mystique.
Tollymore Forset, Co. Down
The breathtaking landscapes that first brought George R. R. Martin’s vision to life return in spectacular form. One of the most iconic filming locations, the atmospheric Tollymore Forest in County Down, reappears as the Crownlands. Nestled at the foot of the Mourne Mountains with sweeping sea views, this enchanting forest is open to visitors all year round.
Northern Ireland’s historic estates also play a starring role. Myra Castle in Strangford, County Down, doubles as both Ashford Castle and Flea Bottom in King’s Landing, while the elegant grounds of Glenarm Castle — ancestral home of the McDonnell family — transform into the lush Ashford Meadows.
The series features an exciting cast, including Peter Claffey as Ser Duncan “Dunk” the Tall, Dexter Sol Ansell as Egg, Daniel Ings as Ser Lyonel Baratheon, Bertie Carvel as Baelor Targaryen, Sam Spruell as Maekar Targaryen, Shaun Thomas as Raymun Fossoway, Finn Bennett as Aerion Targaryen, Edward Ashley as Ser Steffon Fossoway, Tanzyn Crawford as Tanselle, Henry Ashton as Daeron Targaryen, Youssef Kerkour as Steely Pate, Tom Vaughan‑Lawlor as Plummer, and Daniel Monks as Ser Manfred Dondarrion.
Mournes, view to Bearnagh, Co Down
For fans eager to delve deeper into the world behind the screen, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge, County Down, offers a rare look inside the making of HBO’s globally acclaimed series. Visitors can journey through the creative process, uncover behind‑the‑scenes secrets, and even stand before the real Iron Throne.
Ireland Goes Beyond
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