Carrickfergus

Tours

Discover the beauty of Northern Ireland and the world-famous Giant’s Causeway on a tour from Belfast. Visit the Giants Causeway, Carrickfergus Castle, Glenarm Castle, Carnlough Harbour, Waterfoot Caves, Cushendun Curfew House, Rope Bridge, and The Dark Hedges while navigating the Antrim Coast Road. After leaving Belfast in the morning, a short journey will take you to the first stop of the day at Carrickfergus Castle, a 12th-century Norman castle. Walk around and take photographs of the castle and the harbor. Continue the drive along the Antrim Coast Road, traveling through some of the nine Glens of Antrim. Wind through small towns and villages, hearing the myths and legends of the fairies and leprechauns that reside in these Glens. Driving through Glenarm, pass Carnlough Harbour, the Waterfoot Caves, and Cushendun Curfew house. Travel up through Glencorp and Glendunn, passing the coastal town of Ballycastle before arriving at the Portaneevy View Point to see Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge.  Stop to admire views at the rope bridge and look across to the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland and Rathlin Island. Listen to the stories behind these sights before stopping next at the Dark Hedges, known as the Kingsroad in the Game of Thrones HBO series. Walk among the trees made famous by the Game of Thrones followed by a lunch stop at a traditional pub (costs not included).  Later, visit more locations from the Game of Thrones. Travel by Carnlough Harbour where Arya Stark swam and pass by Magharmorne Quarry where Castle Black was located. The finale of the day is a stop at the Giant’s Causeway where you can explore, walk across the historic stones, and learn about the legend of the Giant Finn MacCool. Discover how and why he built the Causeway.  After your day of exploring is done, travel directly back to Belfast via the inland route and get dropped off back in the city center or at the activity provider's office in Queen's Quarter.

Embark on a scenic drive to Northern Ireland's most iconic locations from Belfast. Visit the Giant's Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Ropebridge, Cushendun Caves, Carnlough Harbour, Bushmills Distillery, and the Dark Hedges. Learn about the history with live commentary on board. Board a comfortable bus and set off on your adventure. Make a stop at Carrickfergus Castle to take some striking photos. Then, journey along the Causeway Coastal Route, with stops at the Caves at Cushendun and Carnlough Harbour—both made famous by the hit TV show Game of Thrones. Enjoy a short photo stop at Portaneevy Viewpoint for breathtaking views of Carrick-a-Rede Ropebridge. Enjoy a delicious pub-grub-style lunch at the Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy (not included). Then re-board and head to the highlight of the tour, the Giant's Causeway. At Ireland’s only World Heritage Site, climb over the ancient stones and discover the myths and legends that surround this world-famous attraction. After the Giant’s Causeway, stop at the ancient ruins of Dunluce Castle, a castle ruin unlike any other in the world. Spend 30 minutes at Ireland's oldest whiskey distillery, Bushmills. Visit the gift shop or enjoy a taste of this world-famous and critically acclaimed whiskey. The final stop of the day is at the stunning Dark Hedges, so easily recognizable from Game of Thrones. Finally, relax on the comfortable return journey to Belfast.

Depart central Belfast onboard your luxury coach and head out onto the world famous causeway coastal road, voted one of the worlds best drives! Our first stop of the day is Carrickfergus castle where you will have time to grab a quick photo, the castle was built in 12th century by the Normans and still looks incredible even today. Next we will travel through the glens of antrim and navigate the tight famous coastal road to carnlough harbour, a picturesque Irish fishing village that time has almost forgotten. Disembark and stretch your legs, and explore the harbour or grab refreshemnts and use the toilets. We now travel deeper into the glens of antrim and to cushendun caves, discover the stunning caves and enjoy spectacular views over looking the mull of kintyre in Scotland which is easy to see on any clear day. The iconic dark hedges is our next port of call, and is one of the most instagramable spots in Northern Ireland, you will have the chance to walk along the famous road and also grab lunch at your own expense at the local pub. After lunch we re-board the coach and head to the highlight of the tour, the Giant's Causeway. At Ireland’s only World Heritage Site, you’ll spend some time climbing over the ancient stones and enjoying the myths and legends that surrounds this world-famous attraction at no extra cost! After the Giant’s Causeway, we make a short stop at the ancient ruins of Dunluce Castle where you can grab a quick photo before heading back to central Belfast for the final leg of the tour.

Visit Carrickfergus Castle, Carnlough Harbour, the Cushendun Caves, and walk along the King's Road on a guided tour of Game of Thrones filming locations from Belfast. Enjoy some free time at the Giant's Causeway and a photo stop at Dunluce Castle during the day. After departing central Belfast travel to the first stop at Carrickfergus Castle, a stunning 12th-century Norman structure. Walk around and take photographs of the harbor and the stunning castle. Continue the drive along Causeway coastal road around and through the Glens of Antrim. Navigating through small towns and villages, hear about local legends and stories from your guide. Visit Carnlough Harbour and fully discover a key Game of Thrones location that acted as Bravoos in Season 6. This location also acts as a refreshment stop where snacks can be purchased and toilets can be used. Travel to the Cushendun Caves which were used more than once in the hit show. Sir Davos Seaworth and Lady Melisandre landed ashore in Season 2 - Melisandre gives birth to a terrifying shadow baby, and in Season 8 the famous battle between Jaime Lannister and Euron Greyjoy. Next travel to The Dark Hedges, otherwise known as the King's Road. The road famously was where Arya Stark escaped from King’s Landing, disguised as a boy. Walk along the famous tree-lined road which has become a famous Instagrammable spot. Lunch can also be purchased at your own expense. After lunch, discover the Giant’s Causeway where you can explore, and walk across the historic stones, and learn about the legend of Irish giant Finn MacCool. Discover how and why he built the Causeway. Finally, enjoy a short photo opportunity at Dunluce castle, which was famously used as the seat for House Greyjoy. Travel directly back to Belfast via the inland route and get dropped off back at the meeting location in central Belfast.

Take a journey into Westeros and see epic filming locations from the Game of Thrones TV series. Board your coach at our meeting point at 22-32 Donegall Road, Belfast before setting off on an adventure to drive via luxury coach to the locations of Game of Thrones.  Enter the Caves of Cushendun where the Red Priestess Melisandre gave birth to a Shadow Assassin. Even visit Braavos - locally known at Carnlough. Travel down the Dark Hedges, aka the King’s Road, where Arya Stark traveled with Gendry and Hot Pie hoping to reach the Night’s Watch. See Ballintory Harbor, which was used for exterior shots for both Pyke and the Iron Islands. Marvel at the Giant’s Causeway, an area of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns which form a staircase. The ropebridge and the Giant’s Causeway haven’t appeared in Game of Thrones, but they would make excellent locations for your fan fiction. There is lots more included on the tour for those who aren't major Thronies - such as Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce Castle and Carrickfergus Castle. Why choose us? This is the original Game of Thrones Tour from Belfast - we even transported the Cast & Crew during filming here! This tour has more stops than any other. We have the most modern & comfortable coaches - like the tour, they're award winning. Our guides are the most experienced - some with more than 20 years in the driver/guide seat!

Your adventure begins at 9:00 AM sharp, departing from Belfast City Hall, Donegal Square West. Carrickfergus Castle Your day begins with a visit to Carrickfergus Castle, one of Ireland’s best-preserved Norman castles. Built in 1177, this formidable structure has withstood sieges by the Scots, Irish, English, and French over its 800-year history. Explore its thick stone walls, ancient battlements, and learn about its storied past. You can also find the statue of King William III, commemorating his land at Carrickfergus on June 14, 1690. You’ll have the option to pay for entry and explore the castle or for those who prefer to stay outside, the castle’s surroundings offer plenty of charm and photo opportunities, along with a chance to grab a coffee to start your journey. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (Viewpoint Only) Stop at the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, where you’ll enjoy a stunning viewpoint overlooking the 75-foot chasm that separates the mainland from Carrick Island. While the bridge itself is not crossed on this tour, the viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the cliffs, the surrounding coastline, and the vibrant blue sea below. It’s a perfect spot for photography of the Northern Irish coastline. The Dark Hedges (Lunch Stop) Next, we visit The Dark Hedges, a tunnel of hauntingly beautiful beech trees planted over 300 years ago. Fans of HBO’s Game of Thrones will instantly recognize this as the Kingsroad, where Arya Stark made her daring escape from King’s Landing. Even if you’re not familiar with the show, the beautiful setting makes for an incredible photo opportunity. While here, enjoy a delicious lunch at the nearby Hedges Hotel. Whether you’re fuelling up for the rest of the journey or simply relaxing, this stop combines great food with unforgettable scenery. Dunluce Castle This medieval fortress perched on a cliff overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean is one of the most breathtaking views on the tour. Dunluce is also famously known to Game of Thrones fans as the House of Greyjoy. The castle has a history as wild and stormy as its setting. Tales of betrayal, intrigue, and tragedy surround this site, which has inspired countless legends and writers. You’ll have the option to pay for entry and explore the castle or admire the ruins from the outside. Either way, this stop offers a spectacular backdrop for photos. Giant’s Causeway Our tour’s highlight is the legendary Giant’s Causeway, often called the 8th wonder of the world. This unique natural formation features around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns created by volcanic activity 60 million years ago. However, local folklore tells a different tale, crediting the mythical Celtic warrior Finn McCool with building the Causeway to confront a Scottish giant Benandonner. Whether you’re a fan of science or legends, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see. After an unforgettable day, we’ll head back to Belfast, arriving around 6:00 PM.

Head to the meeting point in Belfast and board a comfortable bus to begin your guided day trip to some of Ireland's most beautiful spots. After a short drive, you'll reach your first destination for the day, Carrickfergus Castle. Wander around the 12th-century castle and its grounds and discover one of the country's best-preserved medieval structures. Then, hop back aboard your tour bus to continue your adventure. Marvel at panoramic views of the countryside and coastline as you travel along the Antrim Coast Road and pass through some of the nine Glens of Antrim. Wind your way through small towns and villages and listen as your guide regales you with myths and legends of the fairies and leprechauns that reside in these Glens. Drive through Glenarm, pass Carnlough Harbour, the Waterfoot Caves, and the Cushendun Curfew house. Travel up through Glencorp and Glendunn, passing the coastal town of Ballycastle before arriving at the Portaneevy Viewpoint to see the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge. Stop here to take in the sweeping views and look across to the Mull of Kintyre in Scotland and Rathlin Island. Learn more about each of these locations from your guide before heading back to the bus to make your way to the next destination, the Dark Hedges. Enjoy the unique experience of taking a stroll along the tree-lined avenue used as the filming location for the Kingsroad in the hit HBO series Game of Thrones. Then, having worked up an appetite, head to a local pub to refuel with lunch (cost not included). Continue your tour after lunch, visiting more Game of Thrones filming locations. Travel past Carnlough Harbour where Arya Stark swam and pass Magheramorne Quarry where Castle Black was located. Finally, reach the highlight of your day trip, the Giant's Causeway. Admire the interlocking basalt columns as you make the most of some free time at this iconic location. Explore, walk across the historic stones, and learn about the legend of the giant Finn McCool. Once your day of exploring is done, travel directly back to Belfast via the inland route and get dropped off at the activity provider's office in Queen's Quarter.

Giant's Causeway Tour:  Your adventure begins at 9:00 AM from Belfast City Hall, Donegal Square West. Carrickfergus Castle Kick off the day with a visit to Carrickfergus Castle, a remarkably well-preserved Norman castle built in 1177. Explore its ancient walls, battlements, and learn about its history of enduring sieges. You can opt to explore inside (entry fee applies) or enjoy the charming surroundings and grab a coffee. Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (Viewpoint Only) Stop at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge viewpoint, offering breathtaking coastal views of the 75-foot chasm below. While crossing the bridge isn’t included, the dramatic scenery is perfect for photos. The Dark Hedges (Lunch Stop) Visit the iconic Dark Hedges, a hauntingly beautiful tunnel of beech trees, known as the Kingsroad from Game of Thrones. Enjoy lunch at the nearby Hedges Hotel while soaking in the atmospheric scenery. Dunluce Castle Admire Dunluce Castle, a cliffside medieval ruin famed for its dramatic history and its appearance as the House of Greyjoy in Game of Thrones. Choose to explore inside (entry fee applies) or enjoy stunning views from the outside. Giant’s Causeway The highlight of the tour is the Giant’s Causeway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at its 40,000 basalt columns formed 60 million years ago, or dive into the legend of Finn McCool, the mythical builder of the Causeway. Belfast City Tour 1 Day Pass: This Belfast hop on hop off bus tour provides you with a comprehensive look at this special city and allows you to explore every area with 19 stops around the city. The tour operates seven days per week and tickets are valid for 2 days. If you decide not to hop off on the route the tour will take approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.  Some of the attractions where there are stops include Titanic Belfast (Discounts available), Crumlin Road Jail, HMS Caroline, Queens University, Botanic Gardens and the political wall murals. 

*Day 1 - Giant's Causeway Tour Your journey begins at the historic Carrickfergus Castle, a Norman stronghold built in 1177 AD. One of the best-preserved medieval structures in Ireland, it offers a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning photographs. Next, we’ll travel along the breathtaking coastal road to Carnlough Harbour, a charming fishing village steeped in history. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize this as the Free City of Braavos, making it a delightful stop for both history enthusiasts and TV buffs alike. Continuing along the scenic coast, we’ll arrive at Portaneevy Viewpoint. Here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and the rugged coastline. While we can’t currently access the bridge itself due to coach tour restrictions, this stop is perfect for photos and soaking in the dramatic scenery. Our next destination is the iconic Dark Hedges, one of the most photographed natural wonders in Northern Ireland. Known as the Kingsroad in Game of Thrones, this avenue of 300-year-old beech trees provides a magical setting for that perfect Instagram shot. This is also our main lunch stop for the day, where you can enjoy your pre-packed meal or choose from the menu at The Hedges Hotel. From here, we visit the quaint village of Bushmills, famous for its rich history and as the home of the world-renowned Old Bushmills Distillery. With its enchanting charm and stunning landscapes, this village is a must-see on the North Coast. Before our main attraction, we’ll make a quick photo stop at the Dunluce Castle ruins. Built in the 13th century, this medieval castle sits dramatically on a cliffside and is recognized as the Great Castle of Pyke in Game of Thrones. Finally, we arrive at the highlight of the tour—the Giant’s Causeway, often referred to as the 8th Wonder of the World. This UNESCO World Heritage site features around 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns, formed by volcanic activity 60 million years ago. According to legend, however, the Causeway was created by the giant Finn McCool, a tale we’ll share, leaving you to decide the truth for yourself! We’ll conclude the day by returning to Belfast around 6 PM, leaving you with memories of an unforgettable adventure. *Day 2-3 Hop on Hop off Tour Belfast Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour Discover the charm and history of Belfast with this comprehensive hop-on hop-off bus tour. With 19 stops around the city, you’ll have the freedom to explore all the key attractions at your own pace. The tour runs seven days a week, and your ticket is valid for two full days, offering flexibility and convenience. If you choose to stay onboard for the full route, the tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing an insightful overview of this special city. Key stops include iattractions such as Titanic Belfast (discounts available), Crumlin Road Jail, HMS Caroline, Queen’s University, Botanic Gardens, and the powerful political wall murals that tell the story of Belfast’s history.

Depart from Leonardo Hotel (formerly Jurys Inn Hotel) taking the Causeway Coastal Route. Stop for coffee and restrooms in Carnlough. This is the harbour where Arya escapes a Braavos canal after she was stabbed by the Waif. Stop to take photos at the Cushendun Caves in the Stormlands where Melisandre gave birth to a dark spirit in season two. Next stop is Ballintoy Harbor, the location where Theon came ashore on Pyke Island, where Theon later rededicated his faith to the ‘drowned god’, where Ser Davos seeks the help of Salladhor Saan for the Battle of Blackwater Bay and where Gendry escapes Dragonstone in a rowing boat. This is where your guide opens the trunk of the coach and takes out the Iron Islands costumes, swords, axes, and Greyjoy banners. What is dead may never die! Next, you will visit the Giant’s Causeway: a UNESCO World Heritage site and geological marvel of 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, formed in the Paleogene Period, 50-60 million years ago (please note there is up to 2 kilometers of walking at this location). The second last stop is a photostop at the spectacular ruins of Dunluce Castle, the ancient seat of power of Clan McDonnell perched on the edge of basalt sea cliffs. Dunluce appeared briefly in Game of Thrones® as the ruins of Harrenhal when Robb Stark and his entourage arrive. Our final stop of the day is the Dark Hedges, the avenue of 200 year old serpentine beech trees through which Arya and Gendry escaped King’s Landing.