Ballintoy Harbour is one of the most photogenic locations on the famous coastal route, whatever the weather. From the splitting sunshine on a good day to the big waves on a wet, stormy day, it still looks incredible.
Historically, it resides in the barony of Cary (territory) between Bushmills and Ballycastle, which is 5 miles from Ballintoy.
The road down to the harbour twists and turns, offering views in every direction, and also passes Bendhu House. You won't miss it on the Game of Thrones tour. It was designed to capture the stunning views from each and every conceivable angle, with its windows all different shapes and sizes within its strange, ship-like design to capture the beauty spot.
The harbour itself was used for smuggling hundreds of years ago, from whiskey to sheep, and has a pub called The Smuggler's Inn, where you can enjoy a pint and hear all about it.
Ballintoy Harbour Game of Thrones
Ballintoy Harbour has become a tourist hotspot, not only for the stunning views on offer but also for its claim to fame in being used in the iconic show Game of Thrones.
This picturesque coastal nook is where Theon Greyjoy arrives back in the Iron Islands and where he later admires his ship, the Sea Bitch. It’s also where he first meets his sister Yara.
The filming at the harbour took place on 18, 19, and 22 August 2011. From 15 August, there was limited public access to the zone. The local shops and fishermen, who had to temporarily berth their boats in Ballycastle, were compensated by the production.