After an extensive and detailed planning process, Game of Thrones Studio Tour in Banbridge has received approval for the development of a permanent 150-space on-site car park.
The decision, made by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council’s Planning & Regulatory Services Committee recently (Wed 6 May 26), means visitors can travel directly to the site and park adjacent to the Studio Tour, designed exclusively for visitors.
Construction on the new carpark is expected to begin as soon as possible, with completion anticipated within approximately three months.
Since opening in February 2022, the £55 million, privately funded attraction has established itself as the world’s only official Game of Thrones Studio Tour, preserving the original filming location where much of the global hit HBO series was created.
Visitors experience an immersive behind-the-scenes journey through authentic sets, costumes and production design, with the full tour typically taking around two to three hours to complete.
Despite operating without on-site parking, the Studio Tour has demonstrated sustained and accelerating growth. Visitor numbers increased by over 30 per cent in 2023, 35 per cent in 2024, and 28 per cent in 2025, with momentum building to approximately 33 per cent growth in the second half of last year.
More recently, Q1 2026 (January – March) marked the attraction’s strongest year-on-year performance to date, with visitor numbers rising by 82%. The growth can be attributed to a dynamic new senior leadership team, sales & marketing team and new established partnerships with the attraction and councils and tour operators as well as other local attractions.
Almost half of all visitors are now travelling from overseas, with guests from more than 60 countries.
The approval of the car park is widely viewed as a turning point in aligning infrastructure with demand. Until now, the absence of on-site parking has set the attraction apart from comparable destinations across the island of Ireland and beyond. The reliance on shuttle transport has not only added complexity to the visitor journey but has also constrained the business’s ability to operate with commercial efficiencies.
Andrew Webb, Chair of the Board of Game of Thrones Studio Tour, said: “This has been a thorough and at times challenging process, but one we have remained fully committed to seeing through.
“The absence of on-site parking has been a consistent piece of visitor feedback and a genuine constraint on the business. Securing approval allows us to move forward with confidence, improve accessibility for our guests, and operate in a way that is more aligned with international standards.”
With the new parking facility, the Studio Tour will be able to streamline operations, reduce overheads, and significantly improve accessibility for both domestic and international visitors.
The decision also provides long-term stability for the approximately 90 people employed by the attraction.
The Game of Thrones Studio Tour wants to thank Tourism Northern Ireland, Tourism Ireland and Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and everyone involved for the support in achieving this important milestone to the studio which shall benefit tourism and the local economy.
Sam Harding, Managing Director of Game of Thrones Studio Tour, added: “We have seen exceptional growth over the past 12 months, driven by strong demand, international interest and the continued global appeal of the Game of Thrones franchise. This investment in infrastructure ensures we are now in a position to fully capitalise on that momentum; and shall open the door to increased group bookings, self-drive, tour operator partnerships and corporate activations and an overall greater customer experience when visiting the Studio.”
Increased accessibility is expected to drive higher visitor numbers, as well as reduce overall operating costs, benefiting local hospitality providers, transport services and the broader tourism chain.
The planning approval comes at a time of renewed global interest in the Game of Thrones franchise, with the recent and new HBO productions including A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms and next season of House of the Dragons coming later this year.
Whether you’re a devoted fan or discovering the series for the first time, Game of Thrones Studio Tour offers an unforgettable experience. With the new car park now approved, there’s never been a better time to plan your visit. Book your tickets today.
