Rediscover Ireland – Game of Thrones and HMS Caroline – NEW TOUR

Depart the UK

Arrive in Northern Ireland and check into your hotel.

HMS Caroline and ‘The Crum’

Don’t miss your chance to experience HMS Caroline, a unique survivor from the First World War. Step on-board Belfast’s newest visitor attraction and be blown away by a dynamic film showing the drama and devastation a battle can bring. Explore impressively restored cabins, learn about the Battle of Jutland and enjoy interactive exhibits throughout the ship.

Executions, escapes and political intrigue. No we are not talking about an episode of Game of Thrones but the chequered history of Crumlin Goal. This afternoon we take a guided tour of the prison which opened in 1845 and only closed in 1996, and is renowned for housing many well-known members of the IRA.

Alternatively, spend the afternoon on a scenic drive that takes in some famous Game of Thrones filming locations including Carrickfergus Castle, Carnlough Village, Dunluce Castle, Larry Bane Quarry and The Dark Hedges.

HBO’s ‘Game of Thrones’ at Castle Ward and Downpatrick

Sharpen your sword and tighten your shield strap! This morning we head to National Trust’s Castle Ward which provided the location for Winterfell in the first series. We will be met by a guide and taken on a Castle orientation tour.

The Castle Orientation Tour includes:

• Exclusive viewing of HBO production company audio visual presentation which shows both behind the scenes footage and the visual effects wizardry used onsite during filming
• Winterfell Castle orientation tour to include ‘before and after’ screenshots
• ‘Master at Arms’ tour guide in HBO Game of Thrones costume
• Great photo opportunities with props from the show – just think of the bragging rights!
• Private use of tepee in castle courtyard – rustic bench seats draped with reindeer skins, smoke billowing from a roaring open fireplace and local traditional music playing in background
• Winterfell Winter Ale tasting

In the afternoon we travel to the medieval town of Downpatrick, believed to be the final resting place of St. Patrick. Here you will find attractions including St. Patricks Grave and Visitor Centre, Down County Museum and tearoom, and Down Cathedral.

Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills Distillery

Today, travel along the scenic Causeway coastal route, known as one of the world’s best coastal drives. Stop off at the Carrick a Rede rope bridge which is one of the National Trust’s most prized possessions. Walk along the rope bridge yourself or stand by and marvel at the views out to sea. Next it’s on to Bushmills Distillery, home to the world famous whisky. Take a fascinating tour and see the process from start to finish of the making of this whisky, and even have a taste yourself.

Afterwards, it’s on to the legendary Giant’s Causeway, Northern Ireland’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, discover the exhibition centre, learn about the myth of Finn McCool and even venture out onto the rocks themselves.

Return home.

After breakfast start your journey home.