Portaferry

Portaferry is a charming harbour village on the eastern shore of Strangford Lough, serving as the gateway to some of Northern Ireland's most celebrated attractions. The historic ferry crossing connects this peaceful settlement to Strangford village, making it the perfect starting point for exploring Game of Thrones locations and one of the UK's most important marine environments.

The Ferry Experience

The Strangford-Portaferry ferry crossing is an experience in itself. Running every 30 minutes, the 8-minute journey across the famous tidal narrows offers spectacular views of the lough and frequent wildlife sightings. Watch for gray and harbor seals basking on the rocks, porpoises playing in the currents, and an abundance of seabirds wheeling overhead. The ferry has connected these two shores for generations, providing a vital link and a delightful introduction to this special place.

Gateway to Winterfell

Just 10 minutes from Portaferry lies Castle Ward, the National Trust estate that served as the exterior filming location for Winterfell in HBO's Game of Thrones. Over 20 scenes from the series were filmed here, and visitors can explore the Winterfell set, try archery where the Stark children trained, or take guided tours of the filming locations. Combine your visit with a ferry crossing to Strangford to see Door #1 of the famous Doors of Thrones at The Cuan Hotel.

"Castle Ward's atmospheric grounds brought Winterfell to life—the courtyard where the Starks gathered, the archery range where Jon Snow first showed his skill."— Game of Thrones Location Guide

Marine Nature Reserve

Strangford Lough is one of only three Marine Nature Reserves in the United Kingdom, protecting an extraordinary ecosystem of over 2,000 marine species. The lough is famous for its 365 islands—legend says one for every day of the year—each supporting unique habitats and wildlife. The nutrient-rich waters attract an abundance of marine life, making this a world-class destination for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and underwater explorers.

Portaferry Castle

Overlooking the ferry crossing and lough, the ruins of Portaferry Castle stand as a reminder of the strategic importance of this location. Built in the 16th century as a tower house, the castle controlled access to this vital waterway. Today, the atmospheric ruins make for excellent photography and offer panoramic views across to Strangford and the hills beyond.