Ireland in the Movies

Ireland's landscapes have starred in films for decades. Visit Irish movie locations and follow in the footsteps of Irish screen talent.

Ireland in the Movies

Movie locations in Ireland worth visiting

Ireland’s landscapes and cultural heritage have made it a sought-after destination for filmmakers worldwide. Over the years, numerous films have been shot across Ireland, showing its varied scenery and historic sites. The country’s film industry has flourished, with a significant number of productions choosing Ireland as their backdrop.

Ireland has also produced a wealth of talent in the film industry. Renowned actors such as Liam Neeson, Colin Farrell, Saoirse Ronan, and Cillian Murphy have garnered international acclaim. Esteemed directors like Jim Sheridan and Neil Jordan have made significant contributions to cinema. Additionally, the country’s scenic charm has attracted celebrities like Jeremy Irons, who have chosen to make Ireland their home.

Start with some of Ireland’s best-known movie locations, where you can stand where the cameras stood.

The Movie Locations

Skellig Michael: Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi

Location: Skellig Michael, County Kerry

This remote island served as the mystical hideaway of Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars saga. Its ancient monastic ruins and rugged beauty make it a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Visit: Boat tours operate seasonally from Portmagee, offering guided trips to the island.

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Cliffs of Moher: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince

Location: County Clare

These dramatic cliffs provided the backdrop for the Horcrux cave scene in the Harry Potter series. Rising over 700 feet above the Atlantic, they give long views along the coast.

Visit: The Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience provides walking trails and viewing platforms.

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Dunluce Castle: Game of Thrones

Location: County Antrim, Northern Ireland

This medieval castle stood in for the House of Greyjoy’s Pyke Castle in the acclaimed series. Perched on a cliff edge, it offers a glimpse into the ancient past.

Visit: Open to the public, the castle provides guided tours detailing its history.

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Inch Strand: Ryan’s Daughter

Location: County Kerry

This expansive beach was featured in the classic film Ryan’s Daughter, showcasing Ireland’s coastal beauty.

Visit: Ideal for walks, surfing, and taking in panoramic sea views.

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Trim Castle: Braveheart

Location: County Meath

This well-preserved Norman castle was used to depict the city of York in Mel Gibson’s epic.

Visit: Guided tours are available, offering insights into its cinematic and historical significance.

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The Burren: The Princess Bride

Location: County Clare

The unique limestone landscapes of The Burren provided the setting for the “Cliffs of Insanity” in this cult classic.

Visit: The Burren National Park offers walking trails through its distinctive terrain.

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Filming locations you can visit

Many of Ireland's best-known film locations are easy to work into a trip. The Skellig Islands off County Kerry stood in for Luke Skywalker's island refuge in the Star Wars sequel films, with boat trips landing in summer weather permitting. The Dingle Peninsula in Kerry hosted Ryan's Daughter and Far and Away, and Cong in County Mayo still trades gently on The Quiet Man, with a statue and a small museum in the village. In Wicklow, the Sally Gap and Lough Tay have appeared in productions from Braveheart to the television series Vikings, which was based at Ashford Studios. The Dark Hedges in County Antrim, an avenue of beech trees near Armoy, became the King's Road in Game of Thrones, and much of that series was filmed around Belfast and the Causeway Coast. Visiting in the morning or evening gives you these places at their quietest, and at their best in photographs.