A Non-Fan’s Unexpected Journey Through the Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Northern Ireland

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Weekend Notes | August 11, 2024

Game of Thrones Studio Tour The Iron Throne

Having never watched a single episode of Game of Thrones or read George R.R. Martin’s best-selling book series A Song of Ice and Fire, my knowledge of the show was limited to random pop culture references and a vague recollection of Kit Harington’s April Fools’ prank on his fiancée. So, when I found myself on a bus to Banbridge, Northern Ireland, heading to the very studio where the epic series was brought to life, I couldn’t help but wonder – what could this world-famous tour offer to someone like me, a total outsider? As it turns out, the answer was a lot more than I ever anticipated.

Primary Dublin Bus Terminal

The Journey Begins
The adventure started with a walk to Dublin’s main bus station, Busáras. Finding the entrance proved tricky – it’s a simple glass door labeled “Bus Éireann.” Navigating the station was an adventure in itself. The gate listed on the ticket, Gate 16, was elusive, but I eventually found it outside, in an area somewhat overtaken by the local homeless community. However, the bus now conveniently picks up at Gate 10 – just look for the bus sign “Game of Thrones Studio Tour.”

Pro tip: After booking your tickets online, don’t forget to secure a QR code—your reference number alone won’t get you aboard.

The driver courteously checked our tickets – QR code required – and welcomed us aboard the 53-seat bus. A 90-minute ride awaited us, without charging capabilities or WiFi, so choose your seat wisely as you’ll be in the same position for the return journey. Prepare for uninterrupted time to read, chat, or, like me, immerse yourself in an audiobook.

Crossing into Northern Ireland
The bus journey through the lush green countryside was remarkably tranquil. The driver announced when we crossed into Northern Ireland, and although the landscape remained largely the same, a quaint little house to the left of the highway always catches my eye not far from the border – a charming constant on this route. As we made a right turn towards Newcastle, anticipation grew – Linen Mill Studios, the actual production site for much of the Game of Thrones series, was just ahead.

Game of Thrones Studio Tour Cast Faces

The Studio Experience
Linen Mill Studios’ exterior offers a photo opportunity, but the real adventure begins inside. Security is efficient, and the lobby welcomes you with set pieces and interactive displays featuring the series’ primary characters. I checked my bag and raincoat at the coat check – a free and secure service conveniently located behind the information desk. The staff were ever helpful, answering any lingering questions about tickets.

After a quick bathroom stop, it was time to embark on the tour. The first stop: a greenscreen setup that immerses you directly into the Game of Thrones universe. Following this was the tour’s initiation (every 15 minutes), a three-screen introduction that sets the scene for what lies ahead with a reveal worthy of this epic series.