Where Was ‘A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms Filmed?’ Behind the Scenes in Northern Ireland

The global phenomenon that was Game of Thrones concluded in a nail-biting, albeit divisive, finale in 2019, leaving millions of viewers with a profound sense of loss and a deep yearning for more tales from Westeros and Essos. For eight gripping series, the epic saga of sorcerers, dragons, and savagery captivated audiences worldwide, transforming the fictional world into a cultural touchstone and a significant driver of tourism to its real-world filming locations. The emotional investment in characters and storylines was immense, and the show’s departure left a void that only further exploration of its rich mythology could hope to fill.

Naturally, the demand for spin-offs was immediate and immense. House of the Dragon, set approximately 200 years before the original series, successfully rekindled the flame, drawing new and old fans alike back into the tumultuous history of the Targaryen dynasty. Its success proved that the appetite for Westerosi narratives remained insatiable, demonstrating the enduring power of Martin’s world-building and the intricate political dramas it inspires.

Now, another series has us hooked, promising a fresh perspective on a familiar world. A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, based on George R.R. Martin’s beloved Dunk and Egg novellas, arrived in front of US audiences on Sunday, January 18, with episodes streaming on HBO. This new prequel occupies a unique chronological space within the Game of Thrones timeline, bridging the gap between the Targaryen civil war depicted in House of the Dragon and the events leading up to Game of Thrones.

"We’re about a hundred years before Game of Thrones and we’re about a hundred years after House of the Dragon," explains co-creator and executive producer Ira Parker, offering crucial context for where this story fits into the broader narrative. "We are following Dunk [Peter Claffey] or Ser Duncan the Tall, who was recently a squire and his knight died and knighted him. Now, Dunk is heading off to his very first tournament to compete in the joust and see if he has what it takes. He has no money, he has nothing. And if he loses this tournament, he’s not going to be a knight anymore." This premise immediately establishes high stakes and a compelling underdog story, characteristic of Martin’s writing but with a more intimate, character-driven focus than the grand-scale wars of its predecessors.

The series centers on the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall, a humble, unusually tall, and somewhat naive hedge knight, and his diminutive squire, Egg, who is secretly Aegon V Targaryen, a prince of the ruling dynasty. Their bond forms the emotional core of the novellas, offering a more grounded, episodic exploration of Westeros from the perspective of its common folk and lesser nobility, rather than its kings and queens. Irish actor Peter Claffey, known for his imposing physical presence and nuanced performances, steps into the formidable boots of Ser Duncan, capturing the character’s earnestness and physical prowess. His portrayal is crucial, as Dunk is a character defined by his simple but unwavering moral compass in a world often devoid of such clarity. Alongside him, Dexter Sol Ansell takes on the role of Egg, embodying the young prince’s intelligence, curiosity, and burgeoning sense of responsibility. Their dynamic is a highlight, promising both humor and heartfelt moments as they navigate the often-perilous roads of Westeros.

As to be expected with any show within the Game of Thrones universe, the meticulous selection of filming locations has been a highlight for viewers tuning in week after week. These settings are not merely backdrops; they are integral to the storytelling, imbuing the fictional world with a sense of tangible history and raw authenticity. The stunning landscapes chosen for A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms continue this tradition, transporting audiences directly into the heart of Westeros. So where was A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms filmed? Here, we take a peek behind the scenes to reveal some of the key locations that bring Dunk and Egg’s journey to life.

Where was A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms filmed?

Consistent with its predecessors, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms was primarily filmed across Northern Ireland, a region that has become synonymous with the dramatic, varied landscapes of Westeros. From rugged coastlines to ancient forests and windswept moors, Northern Ireland offers a diverse palette of natural beauty that perfectly captures the many facets of the Seven Kingdoms. While viewers experience breathtaking scenery through their screens, the reality for the cast and crew often involved battling the elements, a challenge that, paradoxically, often adds to the authenticity of the on-screen world.

"It’s very, very rainy, and the sets were so muddy," recounts Dexter Sol Ansell, who plays Egg, painting a vivid picture of the challenging conditions. He humorously adds, "If you stepped in the mud and stood still for more than five seconds, you’re gone. You’ve been submerged." This candid insight highlights the physical demands placed on the production team, where meticulous set design and intricate costumes had to contend with the relentless Irish weather. Such conditions, while difficult, often lend a gritty realism to the medieval fantasy setting, making the struggles of the characters feel all the more visceral. The mud, rain, and cold become silent characters themselves, shaping the mood and atmosphere of the scenes. Northern Ireland’s infrastructure, including the state-of-the-art Titanic Studios (now rebranded as Belfast Harbour Studios) and Linen Mill Studios, has been instrumental in supporting these large-scale productions, providing sound stages, workshops, and post-production facilities that complement the extensive outdoor shooting. The commitment to filming in the region has also had a significant economic impact, fostering a thriving local film industry and drawing substantial tourism, often referred to as "set-jetting," to sites featured in the series.

Glenarm Castle Estate

One of the pivotal locations for the early stages of Dunk’s quest is the historic Glenarm Castle Estate, which stood in for the bustling Ashford Meadow. "They did the whole Ashford Meadow camp out in Glenarm," reveals Peter Claffey, providing a direct link between the real-world site and its fictional counterpart. He acknowledges the difficulties but praises the team spirit: "Yes, the weather is challenging, but it’s all completely negated by the crew that you work with… it was hard and it was long hours but you come into work and everything’s made so much easier by the fact that everybody’s got a smile on their face." This sentiment underscores the camaraderie essential for enduring demanding productions, where a positive environment can mitigate the harshest conditions.

Glenarm Castle Estate, nestled in the scenic Glens of Antrim, is the ancestral home of the MacDonnell (or McDonnell) family, who have held lands in the area since the late 14th Century. Its rich history provides a perfect backdrop for a series steeped in medieval lore. The castle’s website states: "Glenarm Castle was built on its present site by Sorley Boy’s son, Randal MacDonnell, 1st Earl of Antrim in 1636. However, only six years later, in 1642, the house was burned by a Scots Covenanter army who were attacking the royalist MacDonnells and so it remained a roofless ruin for over a hundred years." This turbulent history of destruction and rebuilding mirrors the often-violent narrative of Westeros, lending an authentic, time-worn feel to the settings. For A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Glenarm’s expansive grounds were transformed into Ashford Meadow, the site of the pivotal tourney where Dunk intends to prove his worth as a knight. This tournament is not merely a contest of skill; it is a crucible for Dunk’s identity, where he must confront both external adversaries and his own self-doubt. The grandeur of the estate, combined with the rustic charm of a medieval encampment, would have provided a visually stunning and historically resonant setting for these crucial early scenes. Visitors to Glenarm Castle today can explore its magnificent walled garden, which is one of Ireland’s oldest, and experience the timeless beauty that captivated the production team.

Hen Mountain and Leitrim Lodge

These breathtaking locations in County Down stood in for shots of The Reach, a fertile and prosperous region in southern Westeros. In the fictional world, The Reach is known for its verdant fields, rolling hills, and abundant food supply, making it a stark contrast to some of the harsher northern territories. Hen Mountain and Leitrim Lodge, with their sweeping vistas and lush, untamed landscapes, perfectly embody this rich agricultural heartland.

Hen Mountain, part of the majestic Mourne Mountains, offers dramatic slopes and panoramic views that would be ideal for wide-shot travel sequences, establishing the scale of Dunk and Egg’s journey across the kingdom. The rugged beauty of the Mournes provides a sense of grandeur and timelessness that aligns perfectly with the epic scope of the Game of Thrones universe. To experience this cinematic scenery for yourself, visitors can park up at Hen Mountain Car Park and set off on foot for a walk that typically takes between one hour and 90 minutes, depending on the chosen route and pace. The trails offer varying degrees of difficulty, catering to both casual walkers and more seasoned hikers, all while providing stunning views that feel straight out of Westeros.

For the ultimate leg-stretch and a deeper immersion into the "Reach" landscape, a short 10-minute drive from Hen Mountain brings you to Leitrim Lodge Car Park, from where you can embark on further explorations. Leitrim Lodge itself is a secluded beauty spot, often praised for its tranquility and unspoiled natural environment. These areas are characterized by their expansive green pastures, ancient stone walls, and scattered farmsteads, all contributing to the image of a thriving, yet ancient, kingdom. When watching the series, viewers can look for scenes depicting long journeys on horseback or wide establishing shots of verdant plains, knowing that these awe-inspiring backdrops are the real, tangible beauty of Northern Ireland. Such locations are not just pretty; they are evocative, helping to convey the vastness and diverse topography of Westeros, and emphasizing the long distances Dunk and Egg must traverse on their quest.

Galboly

Another real-life location standing in for the verdant hills of The Reach is the Hidden Village of Galboly. This atmospheric, ruined village in the Glens of Antrim holds a special place in the Game of Thrones lore, as it was previously transformed into Runestone in the Vale of Arryn for series five and six of Game of Thrones. This re-use of locations within the same cinematic universe is a clever production strategy, enhancing the sense of a cohesive world while maximizing the visual impact of existing, tried-and-tested backdrops.

Galboly’s charm lies in its remoteness and its sense of forgotten history. A cluster of stone cottages, many in various states of ruin, it is nestled into a hillside overlooking the dramatic Antrim coastline. The village offers a glimpse into a bygone era, with its rustic, weathered structures and isolation providing an ideal setting for scenes requiring an air of ancient mystery or a secluded hideaway. For A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Galboly’s natural, untouched beauty would have lent itself perfectly to depicting the less-traveled paths and remote settlements within The Reach. Its inherent character, requiring minimal alteration, makes it an authentic representation of a world where ancient structures blend seamlessly into the landscape. The Glens of Antrim themselves are a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, characterized by deep glens, spectacular coastlines, and traditional villages, making them a treasure trove of filming locations.

Cave Hill

Cave Hill, an iconic basaltic hill overlooking Belfast, stands in for Ashford Valley, where Ser Duncan the Tall seeks to prove himself as a hedge knight. This prominent landmark, with its distinctive ‘Napoleon’s Nose’ cliff formation, provides a dramatic and recognizable silhouette. Historically, Cave Hill is steeped in local legend and even inspired Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver’s Travels, with its five caves supposedly being the source of his giant. This blend of natural wonder and historical mystique makes it an ideal choice for a fictional realm rich in lore.

The forested grounds that surround Belfast Castle, perched on the slopes of Cave Hill, house plenty of walking trails, offering both challenging climbs and more leisurely strolls. These trails provide respite from the buzzy city just on the outskirts of Belfast, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature. For A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, Cave Hill’s rugged slopes and dense woodlands would have provided varied terrain for action sequences, travel shots, and perhaps even moments of quiet reflection for Dunk and Egg. The proximity to Belfast also offers practical advantages for production, balancing access to city amenities with stunning natural environments. The visual contrast of a wild, ancient landscape just moments from a modern urban center underscores the unique appeal of filming in Northern Ireland.

The careful selection of these diverse locations across Northern Ireland is paramount to the success of A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. Each site contributes to the rich tapestry of Westeros, transforming the written word into a visually stunning reality. These real-world backdrops do more than just provide scenery; they imbue the narrative with a sense of authenticity and scale, drawing viewers deeper into Dunk and Egg’s compelling journey. Furthermore, the continued use of Northern Ireland for these prequels solidifies its status as the spiritual home of Westeros, perpetuating the "set-jetting" phenomenon and inviting fans from around the globe to explore these magnificent landscapes for themselves. As A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms unfolds, audiences will undoubtedly continue to marvel at the seamless blend of captivating storytelling and the breathtaking natural beauty of Ireland, proving once again that the world of Game of Thrones remains as vibrant and immersive as ever.