Where to See the Game of Thrones Doors in Northern Ireland
Discover the legendary Game of Thrones Doors trail—ten intricately carved portals scattered across Northern Ireland, each steeped in epic storytelling.
For fans and adventurers alike, Northern Ireland is an essential destination for exploring the real-world locations behind HBO’s Game of Thrones. Among its many treasures, the Game of Thrones Doors trail offers a memorable and immersive way to relive the series’ magic. Ten spectacular doors, each carved from fallen beech trees of the famed Dark Hedges, are displayed in pubs, restaurants, and hotels across the region. Each door unfolds a story from Season 6 of the show, blending artistry, legacy, and fantasy in tangible form.
Table of Contents
- What are the Game of Thrones Doors?
- Origins: From Storm to Art
- Collect Your Game of Thrones Passport
- Where to Find All Ten Game of Thrones Doors
- Planning Your Journey of Doors Adventure
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the Game of Thrones Doors?
The Game of Thrones Doors are a unique art installation and pilgrimage trail commemorating the show’s strongest ties to Northern Ireland. In 2016, after a severe storm damaged the famous Dark Hedges (a real-life location used as the Kingsroad in the show), wood from two felled beech trees was salvaged and transformed into ten exquisitely carved doors. Each door depicts pivotal moments and sigils from Season 6, with intricate storytelling in the woodwork itself.
These doors can be found in ten welcoming venues—ranging from historic pubs to scenic inns—spread across multiple counties, often in proximity to notable filming locations. Fans can immerse themselves in the trail, gaining not only visual but also cultural experiences in the heart of Westeros country.
Origins: From Storm to Art
In January 2016, Storm Gertrude battered the Northern Irish countryside, taking down several of the iconic beech trees that comprise the Dark Hedges. Rather than letting this natural heritage fade, the community, in collaboration with artists and tourism leaders, repurposed the fallen wood.
Artisans carved the salvaged beech into ten doors, each designed to mirror a key episode from Season 6. The result is a fusion of craftsmanship, fandom, and conservation—ensuring that the spirit of both the landscape and the series lives on.
The Game of Thrones Passport
Adding a gamified twist to this trail is the Game of Thrones Passport. Offered freely at each of the ten venues, this souvenir booklet enriches the adventure by:
- Providing backstories and artistic details about each door
- Listing precise locations with regional context
- Allowing visitors to collect a unique stamp at every stop
- Serving as a memento of your completed journey
Can you collect all ten stamps? The passport is both an educational and competitive addition, making the experience even more engaging for solo travelers, friends, or families.
Where Are the Game of Thrones Doors? The Complete Trail
Each Game of Thrones Door is located in a carefully chosen venue, often near memorable filming spots. Embarking on this journey allows you to experience both the artistry of the doors and the charm of local hospitality. Here is the complete list, arranged by door number:
| Door | Venue Name | Location | Highlights of the Door’s Artwork |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Cuan | Strangford, Co. Down | Features the iconic opening sequence map of Westeros and Houses’ sigils |
| 2 | Fiddler’s Green | Portaferry, Co. Down | Depicts escalating tensions among House Bolton, House Greyjoy, and the Ironborn |
| 3 | Percy French Inn | Newcastle, Co. Down | An Iron Islands ship and a lone direwolf above Winterfell—nods to key scenes |
| 4 | Blakes of the Hollow | Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh | Knighthood motifs and the Tully fish sigil; reflects House Tully’s story |
| 5 | Owens Bar | Limavady, Co. Londonderry | Features the sigil of House Stark and pivotal moments from the North |
| 6 | The Fullerton Arms | Ballintoy, Co. Antrim | Dragons, Greyjoy emblems, and references to Euron Greyjoy’s rise |
| 7 | Gracehill House | Stranocum, Co. Antrim (near Dark Hedges) | Imagery of the Kingsroad, sigils of warring families |
| 8 | Mary McBride’s | Cushendun, Co. Antrim | References to the Faceless Men, Arya’s journey, and the Glens of Antrim |
| 9 | Ballygally Castle | Ballygally, Co. Antrim | The Night King, direwolves, and the lore of Westeros’ far North |
| 10 | The Dark Horse | Belfast, Co. Antrim | An elaborate celebration of key moments leading to the season finale |
Door-by-Door: What to Expect at Each Stop
Each venue not only hosts a piece of Game of Thrones history but provides a uniquely local atmosphere. Here is a closer look at the locations and the nearby filming sites:
- The Cuan, Strangford: Just steps from the ferry to Castle Ward (Winterfell in the series). Enjoy a classic Irish inn atmosphere and locally sourced food.
- Fiddler’s Green, Portaferry: A traditional pub near the shore where locals and visitors gather. Close to the scenic Ards Peninsula.
- Percy French Inn, Newcastle: Overlooks the dramatic Mourne Mountains and is an easy journey to Tollymore Forest Park, another key filming site.
- Blakes of the Hollow, Enniskillen: One of Ireland’s most ornate Victorian pubs, filled with stained glass and wood paneling.
- Owens Bar, Limavady: A welcoming haunt in County Londonderry, enveloped by rugged landscapes and folklore.
- The Fullerton Arms, Ballintoy: Just minutes from Ballintoy Harbour, used as the Iron Islands and a popular fan photo spot.
- Gracehill House, Stranocum: The closest door to the original Dark Hedges—a must-see for all visitors to the trail.
- Mary McBride’s, Cushendun: Located by the caves where Melisandre birthed her shadow assassin; the venue brims with coastal charm.
- Ballygally Castle, Ballygally: A historic, seaside castle hotel with stunning views over Ballygally Bay—rumored to be haunted, adding a spine-tingling note to your visit.
- The Dark Horse, Belfast: Nestled in the Cathedral Quarter, this is the perfect final stop, amidst Belfast’s vibrant pub and art scene.
Planning Your Journey of Doors Adventure
The Journey of Doors trail is designed for both the casual visitor and the committed fan. Here’s how to ensure you make the most of your quest:
- Download maps: These are available from official tourism sites and the venues themselves. Digital and print versions make route planning flexible.
- Collect a passport: Start at any location, pick up your booklet, and collect a stamp from each door you visit.
- Combine with filming locations: Many doors are located near actual Game of Thrones sites—like Ballintoy Harbour (Iron Islands), Tollymore Forest (the Haunted Forest), and the Dark Hedges (the Kingsroad).
- Enjoy local hospitality: Each stop offers the chance to enjoy Irish fare, local brews, and perhaps even a storytelling session or live music.
- Photograph your journey: Share your adventure on social platforms using #GameOfThronesDoors and tag the venues to help support local tourism.
Most importantly, check for opening hours and any seasonal changes before heading out, as some venues may have limited access in winter or during special events.
Tips for Game of Thrones Fans
- Be respectful: These venues are active pubs, hotels, and eateries serving locals and guests. Enjoy the doors, but be mindful of the businesses’ operations.
- Book ahead: Some doors—particularly those in inns and hotels—might be in areas reserved for overnight guests. Calling ahead can ensure access.
- Look for memorabilia: Many locations have additional Thrones-themed décor or signed photos from the cast and crew.
- Stay nearby: Turn your quest into a multi-day adventure by lodging at one of the featured venues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What inspired the creation of the Game of Thrones Doors?
The doors were created after Storm Gertrude destroyed some of the Dark Hedges, a filming location for the Kingsroad. Rather than let the iconic wood go to waste, it was transformed into ten intricately carved doors commemorating pivotal moments from Season 6 of Game of Thrones.
Q: Can anyone get a Game of Thrones Passport?
Yes. The passport is free and available at any of the ten venues hosting a door. It provides information, a location map, and a space for collecting unique stamps at each stop.
Q: Are the Game of Thrones Doors near filming locations?
Yes. Each door is placed close to notable filming sites, such as Castle Ward (Winterfell), Ballintoy Harbour (Iron Islands), and Cushendun Caves (shadow birth). Many of the pub and filming stops can be combined into a single, powerful journey.
Q: Is the Journey of Doors trail accessible throughout the year?
Generally, the trail is open year-round, but it’s wise to confirm opening hours, especially for rural or smaller venues which may close for private events or during off-peak months.
Q: Can I visit all the doors in a single day?
While theoretically possible, the doors are spread across several counties. For a richer experience, consider spreading your adventure over two or three days, allowing time for local exploration and relaxation.
Explore More: Beyond the Doors
While the Doors Trail is a highlight, Northern Ireland offers many additional Game of Thrones attractions:
- Guided tours to specific filming locations
- Costume photo opportunities at Winterfell (Castle Ward)
- The Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge, County Down
- Interactive exhibits and app-based walking tours in Belfast and other cities
Whether you’re a casual fan, a die-hard enthusiast, or simply in search of a new way to see Northern Ireland, following the trail of the Game of Thrones Doors promises unforgettable sights, local culture, and a quest worthy of a true champion of Westeros.
