game of thrones A Journey Through Westeros

Game of Thrones Studio Tour & Afternoon Tea Experience

By Gary Campion

Nestled within the lush and breathtaking landscapes of Northern Ireland, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour serves as an extraordinary tribute to one of the most beloved television series of all time. Located in Banbridge, just a leisurely half-hour drive from the vibrant city of Belfast and approximately an hour and a half from the bustling capital of Dublin, this tour acts as a pilgrimage site for ardent fans and curious travellers alike. Once a bustling linen mill, the venue has been transformed into a lively and immersive backdrop that celebrates the storytelling and artistry that brought the epic saga of Game of Thrones to life.

Your adventure begins at The Boulevard, where visitors are welcomed with the convenience of free parking before boarding a shuttle that whisks you directly into the heart of the legendary lands.

Bringing Westeros to Life –The Studio Tour Experience

As you step into the studio, the allure of Game of Thrones comes alive through intricately designed soundscapes that transport you instantly into the drama and intrigue of this fantastical world. The adventure kicks off with an engaging green screen photo opportunity, where visitors can capture a moment that will undoubtedly elicit envy among friends and followers on social media. Following this, you’re ushered into a captivating introductory exhibit featuring a professionally narrated video by the talented Nathalie Emmanuel, who invites you to journey deeper into a realm filled with dragons, thrones, and unforgettable tales.

Once inside, the self-guided tour allows you to explore the exquisite artistry and craftsmanship behind the show’s mesmerising sets and intricate designs at your own pace. You’ll wander through a stunning array of costumes, weapons, and props, each imbued with the rich history and legends of Westeros. Remarkably, over one-third of the series was filmed at this very location, and each corner of the studio resonates with the dedication of approximately 14,000 skilled artisans who worked tirelessly to bring the saga to life. As you traverse from the freezing, formidable landscapes of Winterfell to the sun-soaked elegance of the southern kingdoms, you might even perceive a tangible shift in temperature, further enhancing your immersive experience.

Interactive stations dotted along the tour invite guests to unleash their inner Stark or Targaryen. Engage in a friendly joust against an eerie White Walker or delight in designing your very own house crest. Don’t forget to visit the legendary Hall of Faces, which presents a slightly unsettling yet thrilling selfie opportunity, ensuring that the haunting charm of this world lingers in your memory long after your visit.

The Finale of Exploration – Gifts and Gastronomy

Every grand adventure must eventually come to a close, and this tour culminates in the expansive Game of Thrones Memorabilia and Gift Shop. Here, authenticity reigns supreme, beckoning you to invest in a unique treasure that captures the magic of your visit. For passionate collectors and fans, the professionally taken photo opportunities are an absolute must-have, serving as a lasting memento of your time amidst the lore of Westeros— reminding me of the Throne that could have once been mine, but that’s a tale for another day.

Thrones-themed Afternoon Tea stands out as a remarkable highlight, elegantly presented to elevate your traditional tea time into a sumptuous feast that feels fit for royalty. As you savour each delectable morsel, you’re sure to feel like a true inhabitant of the world you’ve just explored.

A Culinary Journey Through the Seven Kingdoms

Indulge in the exquisite High Garden Sandwich Selection, a gourmet assortment featuring Wheaten Bread adorned with creamy Egg Mayo and tangy Pickled Red Onion. Experience the kick of the spicy Bacon-Chilli Jam sliders, which excite your taste buds and elevate your dining experience.

Experience the charm of our freshly baked scones, available in both classic plain and the indulgent cranberry-white chocolate varieties. Each scone is an invitation to savour the moment, especially when slathered with velvety clotted cream and luscious homemade jams, ensuring you relish every last crumb.

Dive into the heartwarming essence of Northern cuisine with Hot Pie’s Wild Pig Sausage Rolls, bursting with flavour and served warm. For a sweet interlude, enjoy the melt-in-yourmouth King’s Guard Caramel Squares, a delight that perfectly balances sweetness and richness. Stark’s all-butter shortbread adds a comforting crunch, while Sansa’s Lemon Cake offers a refreshing citrus burst, reminiscent of joyful Stark family feasts gathered around a crackling fire.

To cap off this enchanting culinary journey, you are treated to their Wildling Spiced Chocolate Bonbons, crafted with an alluring blend of spices, and indulge in crispy Dragon’s Egg chocolate brownies, both of which pay tribute to the mystical allure of the realm.

An Inclusive Haven for All:

No excursion is complete without indulging in a delightful culinary experience, and the onsite dining options certainly rise to the occasion. The Lobby Café offers a tempting range of delicious bites that cater to various tastes, but it is the Studio Restaurant that truly steals the spotlight. Here, the Game of

The Game of Thrones Studio Tour proudly embraces the LGBT+ community, offering a welcoming atmosphere that champions creativity, diversity, and artistic innovation. In this space, imagination flourishes, and every visitor can resonate with the narratives that unfold, reflecting a commitment to inclusivity that ensures no one is left behind in the experience of wandering through Westeros.

More than just a follow-up to your binge-watching sessions, the Game of Thrones Studio Tour stands as a testament to the power of human creativity and collaboration, intricately woven into the legacy of one of television’s greatest tales. Whether you’re a fervent enthusiast of the series or simply intrigued by the behind-the-scenes magic, this adventure through the enchanting realms of Westeros promises memories and inspiration that will linger long after you leave.

Ticketing Information

The Shuttle Bus journey to the Game of Thrones Studio Tour takes approximately 10 minutes. The time you select for your ticket(s) indicates the departure time of your Shuttle Bus.

Adult tickets are £29.50. Concessionary rates are available for individuals, families, students, and carers.

Admission with Game of Thrones Afternoon Tea costs £59.50 per person. There is no set time for the Afternoon Tea; simply show your ticket upon arrival at The Studio Restaurant.

Belfast Coach Return Transfer costs £45 per person, which includes your return coach journey and admission tickets, allowing for up to 3 hours of the entire experience.

There is also a Belfast Late Bird Return Transfer available for £25 per person, with a pick-up time only at 2 PM from Belfast.

Dublin Coach Return Transfer costs £55 per person and includes admission for up to 3 hours of the entire experience.9

So grab your ticket, don your metaphorical cloak, and prepare to be captivated— an extraordinary day filled with giants, dragons, and the spirit of adventure awaits you!

Game of Thrones Sutdio Tour, The Boulevard, Banbridge, Northern Ireland. BT32 4LF. www.gameofthronesstudiotour.com Tel: +44 (0) 28404 64777