Belfast - Game of Thrones fanatics have signed up in their droves to spend a day indulging in past-times activities such as sword-fighting, archery and feasting, where the smash-hit television show is filmed.
A coach tour of various locations used in the programme is taking place later this year and all places have already been snapped up by fantasy buffs.
As well as taking in sights such as Shane’s Castle and Ballintoy Harbour, fans of the epic will tuck into a hog roast, savour ancient combat and see how their archery skills match up to their heroes from the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros.
Game of Thrones has been a massive success across the globe, particularly in America, and has put Northern Ireland firmly on the map with the bulk of filming for the first two series taking place here.
The third series is currently being produced.
Fans of fantasy literature, games and science fiction are holding a two-day event later this year called TitaCon.
It will include a panel featuring actors from Game of Thrones and the tour of locations, which a couple of stars are also expected to join. It will take place on September 22 and 23. On Saturday, a special panel of actors will take questions, pose for pictures and sign autographs for fans in the Europa Exhibition Hall, or King’s Landing (a site on the show) as the organisers are calling it.
Miltos Yerolemou, who plays Syrio Forel, Kristian Nairn (Hodor), Art Parkinson (Rickon Stark) and Aimee Richardson (Myrcella Baratheon) have agreed to take part with others to be confirmed.
The following day fans can relive favourite moments from series one and two with a tour.
Setting off from the Europa Hotel three coach loads will head to the Giant’s Causeway which, although not featured on the show, is a must-see destination, say the organisers.
From there it is on to Ballintoy Harbour and Carrick-a-rede rope bridge – both of which featured heavily in the last series.
The main stop of the day is Shane’s Castle, near Randalstown, where filming is currently taking place for series three.
While those on board won’t be granted access to the set should filming be taking place, they will be able to take in the numerous sites on the sprawling estate, which provided the backdrop for scenes.
The air will then be filled with the sound of clashing blades for a special sword fight re-enactment with the nifty warriors showcasing skills which have become synonymous with the spectacular series.
The day will be rounded off with a hog roast.
A large marquee will be bedecked with banners and decorations to create a suitable atmosphere.
Last year, actors Kristian Nairn and Miltos Yerolemou from the show joined the tour and feast. – Daily Mail