Northern Ireland’s dramatic scenery has long inspired storytellers - and today, it’s where some of the world’s most beloved books come to life. From classic tales by Charles Dickens and Mary Shelley to modern hits by Sally Rooney and George R.R. Martin, these filming locations celebrate the enduring connection between page and place. Each site offers a glimpse into where imagination meets reality, as historic landmarks and wild coastlines transform into cinematic worlds. Explore these suggestions to step inside the stories that have captured readers’ hearts and now shine brightly on screen.
Discover Northern Ireland’s Literary Landscapes on Screen
Breakfast on Pluto – Patrick McCabe | Belfast – Crumlin Road Gaol
Irish acting powerhouses Cillian Murphy, Liam Neeson, Stephen Rea and Brendan Gleeson bring Patrick McCabe’s Booker Prize–nominated Breakfast on Pluto to life at Belfast’s historic Crumlin Road Gaol. The imposing prison walls perfectly reflect the novel’s gritty narrative. This cinematic location has also hosted Starred Up, Love Hate, Dublin Murders, The Frankenstein Chronicles, The Secret and Doing Money, making it a must-visit for fans of literature-inspired drama and crime storytelling.
Nearby check out: The MAC, Crown Liquor Saloon, St Anne’s Cathedral
Conversations with Friends – Sally Rooney | Belfast – Queen’s University
Step into the world of Irish author Sally Rooney’s Conversations with Friends at Queen’s University, where the adaptation captures the novel’s nuanced exploration of love, friendship and ambition. Belfast’s prestigious campus has also been a filming site for Good Vibrations, Dalgliesh, Bloodlands, The Deceived, Torvill & Dean, Special Couple, Dave Allen at Peace and A Patch of Fog, blending contemporary literary storytelling with the city’s cinematic charm.
Nearby check out: Ulster Museum, C.S Lewis Square, Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich
Dalgliesh – P.D. James | Whitehead
Whitehead’s striking coastal setting provides the backdrop for Dalgliesh, based on P.D. James’ internationally bestselling Adam Dalgliesh Mysteries. Spanning over a dozen novels, the series blends classic whodunnit tradition with sharp psychological insight, earning P.D. James a reputation as the Queen of Crime. Whitehead has also featured in Ordinary Love, The Keeper and The Lovers, giving visitors a mix of literary heritage and cinematic allure along the Causeway Coast.
Nearby check out: Whitehead Railway Museum, Carrickfergus Castle, Blackhead Lighthouse
Four Letters of Love – Niall Williams | Murlough Bay
Based on Irish author Niall Williams’ celebrated debut novel, Four Letters of Love is a lyrical story of fate, faith, and the enduring power of love. Brought to life against the breathtaking backdrop of Murlough Bay in County Antrim, the film captures the sweeping romance and poetic spirit of Williams’ prose. This stunning coastal site, with its rugged cliffs and panoramic sea views has also featured in Game of Thrones® and How to Train Your Dragon, underscoring its timeless cinematic allure.
Nearby check out: Rathlin Island, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Glenariff Forest Park
Artemis Fowl – Eoin Colfer | Portrush
Disney’s Artemis Fowl brought Irish author Eoin Colfer’s bestselling fantasy series to life, adapted from the first cycle of eight novels in his eleven-book Fowl Adventures. Portrush’s dramatic cliffs, Dunluce Castle and the sweeping sands of White Rocks Beach provided a cinematic backdrop for the young genius’s magical adventures. The area has also featured in Derry Girls, Series 2 of Krypton and Cold Feet, giving visitors a mix of literary magic and modern television charm.
Nearby check out: Mussenden Temple, Magheracross View Point, Giant’s Causeway
Game of Thrones® – George R.R. Martin | Binevenagh
Step into the North as envisioned by George R.R. Martin in his international bestselling A Song of Ice and Fire series, a sweeping saga of power, politics, and prophecy in the Seven Kingdoms. The dramatic cliffs of Binevenagh brought Martin’s world to life on screen, serving as the Dothraki Grasslands in Season 5 of Game of Thrones®. This epic adaptation turns the landscape into a must-visit destination for fantasy fans and lovers of visually stunning storytelling.
Nearby check out: Downhill Forest, Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, Downhill Strand
The Woman in White – Wilkie Collins | Florence Court
Florence Court captured the suspense and elegance of The Woman in White, adapted from Wilkie Collins’ groundbreaking 1860 novel, widely regarded as one of the first mystery and sensation novels. Collins’ story of secrets, identity and deception comes alive against the estate’s historic architecture. County Fermanagh has also hosted productions including Game of Thrones®, Blandings, Morgan and Miss Julie, offering visitors a blend of gothic intrigue and period drama within a stunning Northern Irish setting.
Nearby check out: Castle Coole, Crom Estate, Boatyard Distillery, Marble Arch Caves
Death and Nightingales – Eugene McCabe | Armagh
Armagh provides a haunting backdrop for Death and Nightingales, adapted from Eugene McCabe’s acclaimed novel of love, betrayal and political unrest in 1880s Ireland. McCabe, celebrated for his unflinching portrayals of Irish history and rural life, remains one of the island’s most powerful literary voices. The area has also hosted productions such as The Woman in White, Tom Jones, The Frankenstein Chronicles and Puffball, weaving together gothic drama and historic Northern Irish scenery.
Nearby check out: Armagh Robinson Library, Armagh Observatory & Planetarium, Oxford Island Nature Reserve, Navan Centre & Fort
Philomena – Martin Sixsmith | Mourne Mountains
The rugged beauty of the Mourne Mountains provides the backdrop for Philomena, adapted from Martin Sixsmith’s book The Lost Child of Philomena Lee and brought to life on screen with a moving performance by Judi Dench. This story of resilience and truth shares its cinematic stage with productions like Your Highness and The Race, making the Mournes both a literary and filmic landmark.
Nearby check out: Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark, Bagenal’s Castle, Kilbroney Park, Killowen Distillery
Dublin Murders – Tana French | Tollymore Forest
Based on Tana French’s critically acclaimed and award-winning Dublin Murder Squad novels, the BBC’s Dublin Murders was filmed in the shadowy woodlands of Tollymore Forest. The first series adapts two of the bestselling books, In the Woods and The Likeness, blending psychological tension with the forest’s haunting atmosphere. Visitors can also spot locations from Game of Thrones®, Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves, Robot Overlords, Halo: Nightfall, Death and Nightingales, Morgan, Wreck, How to Train Your Dragon, Dracula Untold, Your Highness, Wilderness, Bloodlands, The Fall, Season 2 of Krypton and Stranger with a Camera, making Tollymore Forest a true hotspot for both literary and cinematic storytelling.
Nearby check out: Murlough National Nature Reserve, Seaforde Gardens & Tropical Butterfly House, Castlewellan Forest Park
Tom Jones – Henry Fielding | Downpatrick
Downpatrick’s historic streets and scenic countryside brought Henry Fielding’s 1749 novel The History of Tom Jones, a Foundling to life on screen, capturing the wit, romance, and social satire of this classic story. The area has also welcomed productions such as Dalgliesh, The Lost City of Z, Derry Girls, The Secret, The Frankenstein Chronicles, The Truth of Murder, The Woman in White, Whole Lotta Sole, A Patch of Fog, The Wipers Times and Stranger with a Camera, making it a rich destination for both literary and cinematic exploration.
Nearby check out: Downpatrick & County Down Railway, Montalto Estate, Seaforde Gardens & Tropical Butterfly House
The Frankenstein Chronicles – Mary Shelley | Strangford
Strangford’s brooding scenery set the tone for The Frankenstein Chronicles, a gothic crime drama inspired by Mary Shelley’s 1818 masterpiece Frankenstein, the novel that reshaped horror and science fiction. Shelley’s story of creation and consequence echoes through the series, which reimagines Victorian London against Northern Ireland’s striking landscapes. Other productions filmed here include Mrs Wilson, Bloodlands, Dracula Untold and The Dig, adding further drama to the village’s cinematic reputation.
Nearby check out: Castle Ward, Down County Museum, The Saint Patrick Centre, Strangford Lough Ferry
Small Island – Andrea Levy | Portaferry
Portaferry’s coastal charm set the stage for Small Island, adapted from Andrea Levy’s award-winning novel exploring migration, identity and the Windrush generation. Levy, one of Britain’s most important contemporary voices, used the book to chart the intertwining lives of Jamaicans and Londoners in the aftermath of the Second World War. The area has also welcomed productions including The Woman in the Wall, The Invisibles, Bloodlands, The Bookshop and The Journey, adding literary depth to its cinematic appeal.
Nearby check out: Echlinville Distillery, The Portico of Ards, Exploris Aquarium & Seal Sanctuary
The School for Good and Evil – Soman Chainani | Mount Stewart
The School for Good and Evil is the debut novel by Soman Chainani as the opening title in his bestselling fantasy series. The story follows best friends Sophie and Agatha, who are swept into a magical world where children are trained to become fairy-tale heroes or villains. The movie was brought to life at Mount Stewart, with historic architecture providing the perfect fantastical backdrop. The estate has also featured in Dalgliesh, Christopher and His Kind, Dracula Untold, The Frankenstein Chronicles and The Woman in White, combining magic, history and literary storytelling.
Nearby check out: Ulster Folk Museum, Ballycopeland Windmill, Ulster Transport Museum, Copeland Distillery
The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby – Charles Dickens | Belfast – Belfast City Hall
Nicholas Nickleby, or The Life and Adventures of Nicholas Nickleby, is the third novel by Charles Dickens, originally published in serial form between 1838 and 1839. It tells the story of young Nicholas, who must support his mother and sister after his father’s death. This classic tale was brought to life at Belfast City Hall, an iconic Edwardian landmark celebrated for its grand architecture and historical significance. The site has also hosted Series 3 of Marcella, Line of Duty, The Fall, 37 Days, The Lost City of Z, The Wipers Times, Special Couple and Made in Belfast, showcasing Belfast’s versatility as a cinematic backdrop.
Nearby check out: W5, HMS Caroline, Belfast Zoo, Titanic Belfast
City of Ember – Jeanne DuPrau | Belfast – Cave Hill
Belfast’s Cave Hill brought Jeanne DuPrau’s 2003 novel City of Ember to life on screen, capturing the post-apocalyptic city and its desperate struggle for survival in striking panoramic vistas. DuPrau’s story, praised for its imaginative world-building and themes of courage and ingenuity, provides the foundation for this cinematic adaptation. The location has also appeared in Closing the Ring, with aerial shots featured in Dracula Untold and Line of Duty, offering visitors sweeping views alongside a rich literary and cinematic experience.
Nearby check out: Belfast Zoo, Belfast Castle, St George’s Market
Follow the words that leapt off the page and onto Northern Ireland’s stunning landscapes, where timeless stories find their real-world home. Wander through these inspiring locations, relive your favourite tales, and let each stop spark a new chapter in your own adventure.
On the 31st March 1996 Crumlin Road Gaol slammed shut its doors for what many thought would be the final time, but, on the 19th November 2012 the chains fell off and HMP Belfast was reborn as one of Belfast's most popular visitor attractions.
The MAC is one of Europe’s leading art centres, situated in the heart of Belfast. Recently nominated a finalist for the Art Fund Prize for Museum of the Year 2015, the award-winning venue has welcomed some 800,000 visitors since it opened.
You will find The Crown Liquor Saloon in Belfast within a short stroll of Europa Hotel, Grosvenor Road and Glengall Street - however, you won't find another like it.
Belfast Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral Church of St. Anne, has stood for over 100 years as a place of Christian worship in the heart of Belfast.
The fine façade of the Main Building, designed by Charles Lanyon, conceals a quiet, restful quadrangle. This was the original Queen's College: the University has expanded throughout the immediate area, including all the houses on University Square.
Ulster Museum is home to treasures past and present. There’s something for art lovers, history buffs, inquisitive kids and the culturally curious! For a fun family day out dive into the Discovery Centres: Discover Art, Discover History and Discover Nature, where you can try on costumes from the past, get hands-on with specimens and create your own art to take home.
An exciting public space at the heart of the Connswater Community Greenway. It features over 300 native trees and 7 statues by Irish artist Maurice Harron who was inspired by characters from C.S. Lewis’ 'The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe'.
Cultúrlann McAdam Ó Fiaich is an arts and cultural centre with a strong focus on Irish language and culture. The centre offers, through its arts programme, theatre, music, visual arts, poetry, literary events, workshops and classes catering ...
Whitehead Railway Museum will take visitors on a journey through time - see the large stock fully restored heritage Irish railway steam and diesel locomotives, vintage carriages coupled with state of the art interactive touch displays.
Get ready to step back in time at Carrickfergus Castle, an incredible Norman castle nestled in the charming seaside town of Carrickfergus, County Antrim, right on the shores of Belfast Lough. For more than 800 years, Carrickfergus Castle has been an imposing monument on the Northern Irish landscape whether approached by land, sea or air.
Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust and managed as Ireland’s first Nature Reserve since 1967. It is an excellent area for walking and bird watching.
Amidst the rugged landscape of this isolated island, you can let your mind wander and discover a tranquillity and beauty that is so unexpected.
Carrick-a-Rede is one of Northern Ireland’s most loved attractions, cared for by the National Trust. Enjoy the stunning views along the Causeway Coastal Route; known for its incredible scenery and natural beauty.
Glenariff, the Queen of the Glens, is one of the nine Antrim Glens in Northern Ireland. Glenariff Forest Park covers over 1,000 hectares with planted woodland, lakes, outdoor recreation spaces and conservation areas.
Mussenden Temple is located in the beautiful surroundings of Downhill Demesne near Castlerock in County Londonderry. Awe inspiring views, colourful gardens and woodland walks.
The purpose-built viewing platform offers panoramic views of the Causeway Coast's stunning natural environment and coastal headlands, including views of Dunluce Castle and Whiterocks Beach
Flanked by the wild North Atlantic Ocean and a landscape of dramatic cliffs, the Giant's Causeway is a geological wonder and home to a wealth of history and legend. The 40,000 basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago, has captured the imagination of all who see it.
Binevenagh is a tranquil area where the sights of Lough Foyle and Donegal can be seen on a clear day. This reserve is part of the northernmost outcropping of the Antrim Plateau as molten lava poured out over the surface 60 million years ago.
Mussenden Temple is located in the beautiful surroundings of Downhill Demesne near Castlerock in County Londonderry. Awe inspiring views, colourful gardens and woodland walks.
Downhill is a golden sandy beach stretching from Downhill Cliffs in the east towards Magilligan Point. It's overlooked by one of Northern Ireland's leading landmarks, Mussenden Temple, and benefits from classic views of the Donegal Coast and beyond.
Florence Court is a truly welcoming home. The house, formerly the home of the Cole family, Earls of Enniskillen, is surrounded by a large area of parkland, garden and woodland, with breathtaking views to Benaughlin and the Cuilcagh Mountains. You can enjoy glorious walks around the grounds which include a pretty walled garden, holiday cottage, sawmill and icehouse. In the gardens you will find the famous Florence Court Yew - reputedly the 'parent' of all Irish yew trees.
Castle Coole one of Ireland's finest Neo-classical houses, allowing visitors to glimpse what life was like in the home of the Earls of Belmore. Discover the story of the people who lived and worked below stairs as you explore the servants quarters.
Set on the shores of Upper Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, Crom is one of Ireland's most important nature conservation areas.
Situated on the banks of Lough Erne in County Fermanagh, The Boatyard Distillery offers a unique experience for delegates in our picturesque location. Each tour lasts 90 minutes and includes: a step-by-step process of how our spirits our made from distilling to the final labelled product.
Marble Arch Caves- Magical, Unique and Memorable. The Marble Arch Caves is a major tourist attraction, set in the picturesque foothills of Cuilcagh Mountain, just a short journey from the Island town of Enniskillen in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland.
Established in 1771, Armagh Public Library is one of the oldest libraries in Ireland, holding rare and valuable books, ancient Irish artefacts, and print, gem and coin collections. Visitors and researchers, individuals and groups, are all welcome.
Armagh Observatory and Planetarium is “the place for space”. Watch an amazing Full Dome Theatre show and explore the Universe. Immerse yourself in the latest scientific research in the exhibition area and take a relaxing walk through the Astropark taking in our trails.
Oxford Island National Nature Reserve is a peninsula created by successive lowering of Lough Neagh. Four miles of footpaths, five birdwatching hides, woodland, ponds, wildflower meadows, picnic and play areas.
Navan Centre, located just two miles from the Cathedral City of Armagh, interprets one of Ireland’s most important ancient monuments, Navan Fort; the ancient capital and seat of the Kings of Ulster.
"Where the Mountains of Mourne sweep down to the sea" (Percy French) The popular song has made the Mournes the best known mountains in Ireland. Distinctive and self contained, they are tucked away in the south east corner of Northern Ireland. Dominated by Slieve Donard, Northern Ireland's highest peak, this area of outstanding natural beauty is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Mourne Gullion Strangford Geopark is a UNESCO Global Geopark and recognised Area of Outstanding Beauty that seamlessly blends stunning landscapes, rich geological history, and vibrant cultural heritage.
Bagenal’s Castle located in historic Newry is a 16th century fortified house and adjoining 19th Century warehouse, and has been sympathetically restored to house Newry & Mourne Museum and Newry Visitor Information Centre.
Kilbroney Park on the northern shore of Carlingford Lough is a wonderful escape for all the family no matter their different ages and stages.
Located in the heart of the Mourne Mountains, Killowen Distillery has a ‘Kult’ following and an epic history, due in no small part to its great whiskeys and gins.
Covering an area of almost 630 hectares at the foot of the Mourne mountains, Tollymore Forest Park has panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the sea at Newcastle. It's open to the public all year.
Murlough National Nature Reserve is a fragile 6000 year old sand dune system owned by the National Trust and managed as Ireland’s first Nature Reserve since 1967. It is an excellent area for walking and bird watching.
Seaforde Gardens, Maze and Tropical Butterfly House promises a truly plant rich and nature-filled experience for visitors. Situated in the historic Demesne of Seaforde in County Down, which has been a family home for almost 400 years, visitors will discover an historic walled garden that has something for everyone.
Castlewellan Forest Park boasts a stunning Victorian Castle, incredible panoramic views, scenic walking trails, 27 km of mountain bike trails, nature play perfect for the kids, an on-site multi-activity centre, hedge maze and equestrian centre.
Travel back to the past with real vintage steam trains through St. Patrick's Country, over the River Quoile and under the graceful Down Cathedral to peaceful ruins of Inch Abbey.
An enchanting 18th century Georgian estate in the stunning Down countryside offering a 5 star attraction, bespoke conference and events venue, Georgian mansion for private hire and accommodation, gardens including walled garden and 8km of trails.
Discover a place of contrasts and creativity at Castle Ward, an eccentric 18th century mansion and estate looking out over the tranquil waters of Strangford Lough in County Down where visitors can explore cultivated gardens, sheltered woodland and the shoreline.
Down County Museum is located in the old county Gaol of Down. It houses fascinating exhibitions on the history of Down as well as restored cells with life-size figures of prisoners and their gaolers.
The Saint Patrick Centre is the only permanent exhibition in the World about Ireland’s Patron Saint. The History of Ireland starts here in Patrick’s words, which guide you through our amazing multimedia exhibition. Located 2 Hours north of Dublin and 35 minutes south of Belfast beside Saint Patrick’s Grave with a fantastic Craft Store and incredible Garden Cafe. This needs to be your first stop in Ireland.
Discover how Echlinville Distillery captures the flavour, colour and mouthfeel of their spirits, before settling down to relax and enjoy them in the bar.
Built in 1841, this beautiful Greek-style church hosts concerts and houses heritage displays. Guided tours include the organ loft and a chance to play on the spectacular restored pipe organ. To book a tour or see what's on visit porticoards.com
Enjoy a diver's view of marine life from around the world without getting wet. An underwater Tunnel Experience, friendly sharks and a Dwarfcrocodile, a Waddle of Penguins, all star in Northern Ireland’s only aquarium and seal rehabilitation centre.
Mount Stewart is a stunning estate in the beautiful scenic area of Strangford Lough. The Formal Gardens are ranked as one of the top ten in the world and the within the house there are collections of national and international significance.
Refresh the connection at Ulster Folk Museum, a place where traditions and heritage skills are preserved and celebrated to help shape future generations.
Late 18th-century tower mill in use until 1915 and still in working order. Take a virtual tour and discover this unique building.
Celebrate the history of invention and innovation through engineering, design, and technology at the Ulster Transport Museum. Check out the famous DeLorean, a Ferguson tractor and the motorbikes of some of Northern Ireland's biggest road racing legends!
Truly immerse yourself at The Copeland Distillery, where you’ll hear tales of secret smugglers, savage battles and remarkable voyages, all while soaking up our coastal spirits of whiskey, gin, coffee liqueur and rum. Whether you come for the stories, the spirits, or the scenery, you’ll leave with a true sense of Copeland’s coastal spirit.
Completed in 1906, Belfast City Hall is a magnificent Baroque Revival 'wedding cake' built to reflect Belfast's city status, granted by Queen Victoria in 1888. The grounds are also used for many events from continental markets to open air concerts.
W5 is an award-winning science and discovery centre, firing the spirit of discovery with limitless fun for everyone including eight new zones packed full of interactive exhibits that will excite and inspire.
The World War One warship HMS Caroline is the last surviving ship from the 1916 Battle of Jutland, the largest naval battle of the conflict. Now a floating museum, it invites its visitors to experience the highs and lows of life at sea. By stepping onto its marvellous original deck, you are stepping back in time. Enjoy exploring real parts of the ship on your visit, like the Captain's cabins, the ward room and deck areas. Or try your hand at code breaking!
Belfast Zoo is set on the beautiful slopes of Cave Hill and is home to over 100 amazing animal species, many of which are endangered in the wild.
Welcome to Titanic Belfast, an award-winning visitor experience offering the opportunity to learn about Titanic’s history, just a few minutes from where the ship herself was famously designed, built and launched in 1911. This self-guided tour tells the Titanic’s story from conception through to its first and final journey across the Atlantic, as well as the historical and cultural impact on Belfast and beyond.
Cave Hill Country Park gets its name from five caves, which could be early iron mines, located on the side of the main Belfast cliffs. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views across Belfast from vantage points on the hillside.
Belfast Castle estate is situated on the lower slopes of Cave Hill Country Park in North Belfast. It contains both parkland and mature mixed woodland and offers superb views of the city from a variety of vantage points.
St George’s Market one of Belfast’s oldest attractions and is one of the best markets in the UK and Ireland. It has been voted for numerous local and national awards for its fresh, local produce and great atmosphere.
