Castleward to host Game of Thrones Winterfell day

8 August 2018

GET a real sense of drama when the Game of Thrones inspired Winterfell Festival is hosted at Castleward.

For one day only on Sunday, September 16, the National Trust estate in Strangford will become the ‘home’ of the Stark family.

Using theatrical re-enactments, ticket holders will experience a Winterfell where tensions are high.

Castleward was used as the film location for Winterfell, House of Stark, in series one.

The festival aims to build on the tension expected ahead in the final season eight of the world famous show when the White Walkers approach the Wall.

Throughout the day, actors will play the roles of central Game of Thrones characters, recreating scenes from George R R Martin’s novels at various locations around the estate.

There’s a chance to meet The Hound and learn how to wield a sword or hear King Robert regale tales of the Nights’ Watch and follow Jon Snow to Castle Black, avoiding White Walkers as you go.

Two of the original Stark family Dire Wolf dogs will also be making a special appearance.

Dogs Grey Wind and Summer are known as Odin and Thor in the real world.

There’s a full programme of events and entertainment including live jousting, falconry, archery, and a medieval village.

Visitors have the chance to meet Armourer Boyd Rankin (Mikken in Game of Thrones) who will be showcasing a selection of the swords he forged for Game of Thrones.

Those who buy a ‘meet the actor’ ticket will have the opportunity to join an intimate audience with stars from the Game of Thrones TV series.

Details of the actors and the tickets for this additional element of the festival will be announced later this summer.

The festival is supported by Tourism Northern Ireland and Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

Tickets for Winterfell 2018 are now on sale — £25 adult, children £10 (5-16), under 5s free. Family ticket cost £65 (two adults and two children) and tickets to meet the actors will be sold separately and go on sale later in the summer.

For more information and to book festival tickets visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/winterfell

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