A stunning and “immersive” Game of Thrones studio tour is to open in the borough – and here’s a sneak peek as to how it will look!
And the move is expected to create hundreds of jobs and bring in millions of pounds annually for the local economy.
It will be located within Linen Mill Studios, Banbridge and opens in spring next year.
The tour, being described as a “deeply immersive and sensory experience”, will house a permanent exhibition which will feature sets, props, costumes and more behind-the-scenes tidbits of the hit TV show.
Sets will include Dragonstone’s Throne Room and Map Room, Castle Black’s Mess Room, Cersei’s Courtyard in King’s Landing, and even inside Winterfell itself.
Visitors will be able to walk around the sets and get up close to the real props, costumes and weapons used throughout the series, as well as learning all the secrets of how special effects were created for iconic scenes.
Jeff Peters, vice-president of licensing and retail at HBO, said: “It is our sincere pleasure to announce the first attraction from the Game Of Thrones Legacy project in Northern Ireland.
“Some of the most iconic scenes from Game Of Thrones were filmed at Linen Mill Studios and our fans will soon have an opportunity to visit and see the work of the show’s incredible crew in the museum setting it deserves.”
Andrew Webb, managing director at Linen Mill Studios, added: “Linen Mill Studios is thrilled, in partnership with HBO, to have this opportunity to offer fans a unique insight into the making of the Game Of Thrones series in the authentic setting of one of its foremost filming locations.
“We are committed to giving fans the opportunity to experience firsthand the most comprehensive selection of iconic elements from the show available anywhere in the world.”
John McGrillen, the chief executive of Tourism Northern Ireland, is certain the attraction will bring more visitors to the area.
He explained: “We very much welcome this exciting announcement.
“Game of Thrones has transformed Northern Ireland into a leading international screen tourism destination, bringing many more visitors and fans of the show to Northern Ireland to explore the stunning landscapes, coastlines and mountains showcased in the series
“I commend both Linen Mill Studios in recognising the increasing opportunity in screen tourism here and HBO’s commitment to Northern Ireland as the ‘Home of Thrones’.
“I have no doubt this investment will deliver a world-class visitor experience.”
