TV Shows Filmed in Ireland: The Emerald Screen

Ireland's lush landscapes, ancient castles, and dramatic coastlines have made it one of the world's most sought-after filming destinations. From epic fantasy sagas to intimate contemporary dramas, the Emerald Isle provides a versatile and captivating backdrop that has enchanted audiences worldwide. Let's explore the most notable TV shows filmed in Ireland and discover how you can visit these magical locations yourself.

Game of Thrones: From Winterfell to the Iron Islands

Release: 2011-2019
Plot: Based on George R.R. Martin's fantasy novels, this epic series follows noble families vying for the Iron Throne in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos.
Cast: Kit Harington, Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey

While Northern Ireland served as the primary filming location for Game of Thrones, several iconic scenes were shot across the island:

Castle Ward, County Down

This 18th-century mansion and its sprawling estate transformed into Winterfell, the ancestral home of House Stark. Visitors can tour the grounds where Bran Stark practiced archery and where many pivotal scenes from Season 1 were filmed.

Ballintoy Harbour, County Antrim

This picturesque harbor on the Causeway Coastal Route became the Iron Islands, home to House Greyjoy. The scene where Theon Greyjoy returns to his homeland was filmed at this rugged coastal location.

The Dark Hedges, County Antrim

This stunning avenue of beech trees served as the King's Road in Season 2. Though only appearing briefly in the show, it's become one of the most photographed natural phenomena in Northern Ireland.

Behind the Scenes: The production employed over 13,000 extras in Northern Ireland alone during the show's run. The local film industry experienced unprecedented growth, with many locals trained specifically to work on the production.

Vikings: Norse Warriors in the Irish Countryside

Release: 2013-2020
Plot: This historical drama follows the legendary Norse figure Ragnar Lothbrok and his descendants as they raid, trade, and explore during the Viking Age.
Cast: Travis Fimmel, Katheryn Winnick, Alexander Ludwig, Gustaf Skarsgård

Wicklow Mountains, County Wicklow

The rugged terrain of the Wicklow Mountains frequently stood in for the Scandinavian landscape. Lough Tay, nicknamed "Guinness Lake" for its dark waters and white sand shore, served as the setting for Kattegat, the home village of the main characters.

Powerscourt Waterfall, County Wicklow

This 121-meter cascade, Ireland's highest waterfall, featured in numerous scenes throughout the series, providing a dramatic natural backdrop for key moments.

Ashford Studios, Ballyhenry

This purpose-built studio in County Wicklow housed the permanent sets for Vikings, including elaborate longhouses and settlements. While not open to the public, it has put Ireland on the map as a major television production hub.

Behind the Scenes: Many of the underwater scenes in Vikings were actually filmed in tanks at Ashford Studios rather than in the frigid Irish Sea. The production team also built a fleet of historically accurate Viking longships that could actually sail.

Normal People: Contemporary Ireland on Screen

Release: 2020
Plot: Based on Sally Rooney's novel, this drama follows the complex relationship between Marianne and Connell from their school days in small-town Ireland to their university years at Trinity College Dublin.
Cast: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Paul Mescal

Sligo Town, County Sligo

This charming town in northwest Ireland served as the fictional town of Carricklea, where Marianne and Connell grow up. Key scenes were filmed throughout the town and surrounding areas.

Trinity College, Dublin

The prestigious university features prominently as both characters attend college there. Viewers can walk through the same historic courtyards and buildings seen in the show.

Streedagh Beach, County Sligo

This stunning three-mile stretch of beach features in several important scenes. Its dramatic views of mountains and sea make it one of Ireland's most picturesque coastal locations.

Behind the Scenes: The show's intimate portrayal of Ireland helped boost tourism to Sligo by over 30% following its release, with fans making pilgrimages to locations featured in the series.

Derry Girls: Northern Ireland's Comedy Gem

Release: 2018-2022
Plot: Set against the backdrop of The Troubles in 1990s Northern Ireland, this comedy follows a group of teenagers at a Catholic girls' secondary school.
Cast: Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Louisa Harland, Nicola Coughlan, Jamie-Lee O'Donnell

Derry City, County Londonderry

The show is primarily filmed in the walled city of Derry, with locations including the iconic Derry Walls, the Guildhall, and various streets throughout the city center.

Dennis's Wee Shop, Derry

This corner shop (called McCool's in the show) is instantly recognizable to fans as a regular meeting spot for the characters.

St. Columba's College, Derry

This school served as the exterior for the fictional "Our Lady Immaculate College" where much of the series takes place.

Behind the Scenes: While most of the series was filmed in Derry, some Belfast locations were used as well. The famous "Derry Girls mural" painted on the side of Badger's Bar has become a popular tourist attraction.

Penny Dreadful: Gothic Horror in the Irish Countryside

Release: 2014-2016
Plot: This horror series brings together iconic literary characters like Dorian Gray, Victor Frankenstein, and characters from Dracula in a Victorian London setting.
Cast: Eva Green, Josh Hartnett, Timothy Dalton

While set primarily in London, Penny Dreadful was almost entirely filmed in Ireland:

Ardmore Studios, Bray

This studio complex in County Wicklow housed many of the show's elaborate Victorian sets, including interiors for Sir Malcolm Murray's mansion.

Dublin Castle, Dublin

This historic complex stood in for various London locations, with its period architecture providing an authentic 19th-century atmosphere.

Kilruddery House, County Wicklow

This stunning 17th-century estate served as various grand estates throughout the series, with its manicured gardens and imposing architecture.

Behind the Scenes: The production team built over 30 unique sets at Ardmore Studios, creating a Victorian London that was actually more historically accurate than many productions filmed in London itself.

How to Visit Ireland's TV Filming Locations

Game of Thrones Tours

Several specialized tour operators offer comprehensive Game of Thrones experiences, including:

• Game of Thrones Tours: Official tours with former extras as guides
• The Causeway Coastal Route: A self-drive option covering many filming locations

Vikings Experience

• Wicklow Film Trail: Follow a self-guided tour through the "Garden of Ireland" to visit Vikings locations
• Irish National Heritage Park in Wexford offers a reconstructed Viking settlement similar to those seen in the show

Literary and Contemporary Tours

• Trinity College offers guided tours that include locations from Normal People
• Derry City now offers "Derry Girls" walking tours highlighting filming locations

Best Times to Visit

• April to October offers the best weather
• Consider visiting during shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) to avoid crowds
• Winter visits provide atmospheric landscapes reminiscent of Game of Thrones (especially in Northern Ireland)

If you're planning a comprehensive TV locations tour of Ireland, consider reading our guide to planning a filming location vacation for practical tips and advice.

Other Notable TV Shows Filmed in Ireland

The Tudors (2007-2010)

This historical drama about Henry VIII was filmed primarily at Ardmore Studios and locations throughout Dublin and Wicklow, including Dublin Castle and Christ Church Cathedral.

Ripper Street (2012-2016)

Set in London's East End after the Jack the Ripper murders, this series was primarily filmed in Dublin, with Clancy Barracks standing in for Victorian London.

For more international filming locations, check out our article on where was Peaky Blinders filmed to discover how the UK creates period settings.

Conclusion: Ireland's Starring Role Continues

Ireland's stunning landscapes, historic architecture, and film-friendly infrastructure have cemented its position as one of Europe's premier filming destinations. From the fantastical worlds of Game of Thrones to the intimate contemporary setting of Normal People, the Emerald Isle provides diverse and captivating backdrops that enhance storytelling across genres.

As the Irish film and television industry continues to grow, we can expect to see even more productions utilizing its unique scenery. Whether you're a dedicated fan making a pilgrimage to specific locations or simply a traveler looking to experience the beauty of Ireland through its on-screen appearances, these TV filming locations offer a fascinating way to explore the country's natural and cultural heritage.

Have you visited any of these Irish filming locations? Do you have a favorite TV show filmed in Ireland that we didn't mention? Share your experiences in the comments below or check out our article on fantasy TV shows and their filming locations for more inspiration!