The Dark Hedges is Northern Ireland's most photographed location and Game of Thrones' King's Road. Here's everything you need to know before visiting.
The Dark Hedges — a hauntingly beautiful avenue of ancient beech trees in County Antrim — is one of Northern Ireland's most photographed locations and a must-see on any visit to the north coast.
What Are the Dark Hedges? The Dark Hedges are a kilometre-long avenue of beech trees planted by the Stuart family in the 18th century to line the approach to their Gracehill House. Over centuries, the trees' branches have intertwined overhead, creating a tunnel-like canopy that's otherworldly in its beauty — especially in misty morning light or autumn colours.
Game of Thrones Connection The Dark Hedges was used as the King's Road in Game of Thrones Season 2, when Arya Stark escapes King's Landing disguised as a boy. The scene featured the trees at dawn, giving them an ethereal, shadowy quality that matched the Bregovic score perfectly. Since airing, visitor numbers to the site have increased dramatically.
When to Visit - Early morning is by far the best time — the light filters through the canopy beautifully, and there are far fewer visitors. Aim to arrive before 9 AM. - Autumn (September–November) is stunning when the leaves turn gold and amber. - Winter mornings can be atmospheric with mist or frost. - Avoid Saturday mornings in summer when coach parties arrive from 10 AM.
Practical Information - Location: Bregagh Road, Armoy, County Antrim BT53 8PX - Free to visit — the trees themselves are on a public road - Parking: There is a car park at the nearby King William Pub on the B67 (short walk to the trees). Arrive early as it fills quickly. - Photography: The trees are best photographed from the middle of the avenue looking north or south. A wide-angle lens works well. - Walk: The avenue is about 1 kilometre long — allow 20–30 minutes.
Nearby Attractions - Dunluce Castle (15 minutes by car) - Giant's Causeway (25 minutes) - Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge (25 minutes) - Bushmills Distillery (20 minutes) - Ballintoy Harbour (20 minutes)
Getting There The Dark Hedges is 56 miles from Belfast — approximately 1 hour 10 minutes by car. It's best visited as part of a wider north Antrim coast day trip.
Our Game of Thrones Tour and Giant's Causeway Tour both include a visit to the Dark Hedges. We time the visit for early morning before the crowds arrive.