Newcastle: Game of Thrones – Tollymore Forest Trek

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones® and planning a trip to Northern Ireland, this guided trek through Tollymore Forest Park offers a real treat. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the consistent high ratings and glowing reviews suggest it’s a memorable way to connect with the show’s filming locations in a stunning natural setting. What makes this experience stand out are the insider stories from guides who appeared as extras and the chance to wear a Stark wool cloak while walking through a forest that looks straight out of Westeros.

One of the most appealing aspects is how accessible and engaging the tour feels, especially with guided insights that bring the filming locations to life. The stunning scenery of the 800-year-old temperate rain forest really adds a sense of authenticity and adventure. A possible downside is that the tour covers uneven terrain and includes a steep descent and ascent, making it unsuitable for those with limited mobility or mobility issues.

This experience is perfect for Game of Thrones enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone wanting to blend a love of filming with a scenic walk. If you’re comfortable with walking two miles over uneven ground and enjoy stories from behind the scenes, this tour will likely be a highlight of your visit.

Key Points

• Iconic filming locations in Tollymore Forest include the opening prologue scene, Tyrion and Jon’s campfire, and the Stark’s dead Direwolf find.
• Authentic experience with a knowledgeable guide who also appeared as an extra in the show.
• Stunning natural scenery of an 800-year-old forest that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into Westeros.
• Cost-effective at around 1.5 hours, delivering great value for those interested in both nature and TV history.
• Dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes as the terrain is uneven.
• Limited mobility: Not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users.

Tollymore Forest Park, located in County Down, Northern Ireland, is a place where natural beauty and cinematic history intertwine. Known for its appearance in season 1 of Game of Thrones®, this forest is where the story began for many viewers. The guided trek here is designed for fans eager to see the show’s iconic locations, with the added bonus of hearing insider tales from guides who have even appeared as extras on the set.

This tour offers more than just a walk through woods; it’s an opportunity to step into Westeros, if only for an hour and a half. For a reasonable price, travelers get access to atmospheric scenery, engaging storytelling, and a chance to dress as a Stark in a wool cloak.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What You’ll Experience

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and involves walking roughly 2 miles (3.2 km) through uneven terrain. It begins with a gathering in the main car park, where you’ll be provided with a Stark cloak—a fun touch that transports you to the show’s universe. The route includes three key filming sites, each rich in detail and story.

The Itinerary in Detail

First Stop: The Wildling Pit
This is where the opening scene of the first episode was shot—an eerie scene where the Night’s Watch finds wildling bodies dismembered in the snow. The location is atmospheric, and standing here, you can imagine the chilling tension of that moment. The guide may point out how this scene set the tone for the series’ gritty realism.

Second Stop: Tyrion and Jon’s Campfire
The next location is a rustic campfire site where Tyrion and Jon Snow share a quiet conversation on their way north. It’s a place that feels suspended in time, wrapped in moss and shaded by towering trees. Being there, you get an immediate sense of the storytelling power of the forest.

Third Stop: The Stark’s Dead Direwolf Find
The final location is a bridge where the Stark children discover the litter of Direwolf pups, including their iconic pups. This scene is one of the most memorable in the early episodes, and standing there, you can appreciate how the landscape contributed to the story’s emotional impact.

The Guide and Atmosphere

According to reviews, the guides enhance the experience with enthusiasm and insider knowledge. One reviewer mentioned their guide, Lar, was not only fun and friendly but also shared stories from his own experience as an extra in the series. This insider insight adds a layer of authenticity and makes the walk more engaging. Several reviews praise the guides’ storytelling and their ability to make the forest feel alive with history and behind-the-scenes secrets.

Practical Details

The tour’s starting point is the main car park, near the public toilets, with the coach recognizable by large lettering. It departs at 10:00 AM, and you’ll join other visitors exploring the same locations. The total walking time is just over an hour, but prepare for uneven ground and some steep descents and ascents. It’s not suited for those with mobility limitations or wheelchair users.

What’s included?

• The guided tour
• A Stark cloak to wear during the walk
• Rain ponchos if the weather turns wet

You’re responsible for transportation to Tollymore Forest Park and the entrance fee, which is not included. It’s worth noting that the tour is flexible—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to fit into your Northern Ireland plans.

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The Value and Who Would Love It

At around 1.5 hours, this trek offers a meaningful window into both the scenic beauty of Northern Irish forests and the world of Game of Thrones®. Many reviewers describe it as a highlight of their trip, especially for fans who enjoy stories from behind the scenes and seeing filming sites firsthand. The experience is particularly good if you appreciate authentic natural settings and are comfortable walking on uneven terrain.

While the price is reasonable, the true value lies in the stories, scenery, and the chance to dress as a Stark—which many find adds a fun and immersive element. It’s an excellent choice for those who want an active, engaging excursion that combines nature, TV history, and storytelling.

This tour is ideal for Game of Thrones fans, especially those eager to see the filming locations up close. It’s also perfect if you enjoy walking in forests and appreciate a guided experience that includes storytelling. However, it’s not suitable for people with limited mobility, wheelchair users, pregnant women, or children under 18.

The tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and don’t mind uneven terrain. It’s a good choice for those who want to combine a bit of TV pilgrimage with fresh air and scenic views.

For fans of the series, this trek through Tollymore Forest is a chance to walk in the footsteps of your favorite characters. The guides, many of whom have a direct connection to the show, make the experience lively and informative. The forest itself is a spectacular setting—moss-covered trees and ancient woods that evoke a sense of history and mystery.

While it requires a bit of walking and a willingness to get outdoors, the overall experience offers excellent value for those wanting a blend of scenery, storytelling, and a touch of fantasy. It’s an activity that can turn a regular visit into a storybook adventure.

Most importantly, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for the landscapes that helped bring Westeros to life. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or simply love exploring lush forests, this tour offers an engaging way to spend a morning in Northern Ireland.

Is transportation to Tollymore Forest Park included in the tour?
No, transportation to the park is not included. You’ll need to make your own way there, but the meeting point is clearly marked in the main car park.

What should I wear for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain, and dress weather-appropriate for Northern Ireland’s often unpredictable weather. Rain ponchos are provided if needed.

How long does the tour last?
The trek lasts approximately 1.5 hours, covering around 2 miles of walking.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it involves uneven terrain and steep descents, so it’s not recommended for those with limited mobility or wheelchair users.

What is included in the price?
The guided walk, Stark cloaks, and rain ponchos when required.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the best time to join the tour?
The most common start time is 10:00 AM, but check availability since times may vary.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the minimum age is 18 years.

To sum it up, if you’re a Game of Thrones® fan looking for an engaging, scenic, and story-rich experience, this Tollymore Forest trek is well worth considering. It offers a unique chance to see key filming locations, learn behind-the-scenes stories, and enjoy some of Northern Ireland’s most enchanting natural scenery—all in just under two hours. Perfect for those who love a bit of adventure, history, and fantasy woven into their travels.

You can check availability for your dates here: