A Wildling Welcome

As a former city planner turned travel writer, I’ve always been drawn to the vibrant pulse of urban landscapes. But every now and then, the call of the wild beckons, and I find myself yearning for an adventure that takes me beyond the city limits. This time, it was the allure of the Iron Islands that drew me to Ballygalley, Northern Ireland, for the Game of Thrones Private Tour with none other than Richard the Wildling.

From the moment I met Richard, I knew this was going to be an unforgettable experience. With his rugged charm and encyclopedic knowledge of all things Game of Thrones, Richard was the perfect guide to lead us through the mystical landscapes that served as the backdrop for some of the series’ most iconic scenes. As we set off in his comfortable car, Richard regaled us with tales from his time on set, where he played a Wildling extra in seasons 5, 6, and 7. His stories brought the world of Westeros to life in a way that no mere fan could ever hope to achieve.

Our first stop was the picturesque village of Ballygally, where we paused to take in the breathtaking views of the Sallagh Braes. This was the very spot where Sansa and Lord Baelish discussed her ill-fated marriage to Ramsay Bolton. As we stood there, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe at the beauty of the landscape, which seemed to stretch on forever.

Hidden Gems and Iconic Locations

As we continued our journey, Richard took us to some of the lesser-known locations that only a true insider would know about. At Carnlough Harbour, we walked the same limestone steps that Arya Stark used to escape from the Waif. The harbor was a hidden gem, its tranquil waters providing a stark contrast to the dramatic events that unfolded there on screen.

Next, we ventured to the Caves of Cushendun, where Melisandre gave birth to the shadow assassin. The caves were eerily beautiful, their dark recesses echoing with the whispers of ancient magic. Richard’s tales of the cast and crew’s experiences filming in these locations added an extra layer of intrigue to the already captivating scenery.

Of course, no Game of Thrones tour would be complete without a visit to Ballintoy Harbour, the real-life Iron Islands. As we stood on the rugged coastline, I could almost hear the chants of the Drowned God echoing in the wind. Richard’s enthusiasm was infectious, and I found myself swept up in the excitement of the moment, imagining myself as a character in the epic saga.

A Proposal to Remember

The highlight of the tour came at the Dark Hedges, an iconic avenue of serpentine beech trees that served as the King’s Road in season 2. It was here that one of my fellow travelers, a fellow Game of Thrones enthusiast, chose to propose to his partner. With Richard’s help, the moment was captured perfectly, and the joy on their faces was a testament to the magic of the setting.

As the tour came to an end, I couldn’t help but reflect on the incredible journey we had just undertaken. Richard’s passion for the series and his deep knowledge of the filming locations had made this an experience like no other. For anyone looking to immerse themselves in the world of Game of Thrones, this tour is an absolute must.

In the end, it was the perfect blend of adventure, history, and storytelling that made this tour so special. As I returned to the bustling streets of the city, I carried with me the memories of the Iron Islands and the wild beauty of Northern Ireland, a reminder that sometimes the best adventures lie just beyond the horizon.