New Game of Thrones Studio Tour a game-changer – Lyons

Economy Minister Gordon Lyons has hailed the new Game of Thrones Studio Tour as a game-changing tourist attraction.

Minister Gordon Lyons with Game of Thrones actors Ian McElhinney (left) and Ian Beattie. Both are from Northern Ireland

The Minister today visited the television show attraction at Linen Mill Studios, Banbridge during a global media preview event, ahead of the tour opening to the public later this week.

Speaking after his visit, the Minister said:

“The HBO show Game of Thrones is a television and cultural phenomenon, with millions of dedicated fans right around the world. That Northern Ireland was the principal filming location is testament both to the quality of the places we have here, and to the highly skilled screen industry talent base available.

“I am delighted, therefore, that Linen Mill Studios, where a significant proportion of Northern Ireland-based scenes were filmed, has become the world’s first and only officially-licensed Game of Thrones studio tour attraction, and a tangible symbol of the show’s legacy in Northern Ireland.

“This is the only place on the planet where you can see first-hand some of the stunning sets, intricate costumes, imaginative props, breath-taking concept sketches and many more authentic items related to the show.”

The Minister added:

“As we continue to emerge from the pandemic with increasing optimism, the timing of the opening of the Game of Thrones Studio Tour could not be more opportune. As international travel opens up once more, Northern Ireland has added this world class attraction to its already dynamic tourism offering.

“I congratulate studio owners on bringing the project to fruition and look forward to seeing the positive impact the Game of Thrones Studio Tour has on the local tourism landscape for many years to come.”

Notes to editors:

1. For more information on the Game of Thrones Studio Tour, and to book tickets, visit: Game of Thrones studio tour
2. The Department may take photographs and videos at announcements and events to publicise its work. Photographs, interviews, videos or other recordings may be issued to media organisations for publicity purposes or used in promotional material, including in publications, newspapers, magazines, other print media, on television, radio and electronic media (including social media and the internet). Photographs and videos will also be stored on the Department’s internal records management system. The Department will keep the photographs and recordings for no longer than is necessary for the purposes for which they have been obtained. The Department’s Privacy Policy is available on our website.
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