Get ready to return to Westeros—but with a twist! A brand-new Game of Thrones spin-off set in Northern Ireland is launching tomorrow night, and it’s already sparking excitement and debate. Titled A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms, this feudal drama takes place a century before the events of Game of Thrones and follows the adventures of Ser Duncan the Tall and his unlikely squire, Egg. Airing on Sky Atlantic, the series aims to recapture the magic that made its predecessor a global phenomenon—and reignite the tourism boom it brought to Northern Ireland.
But here’s where it gets controversial: while fans are thrilled, locals in filming locations like Glenarm, Co Antrim, are divided. Is the economic boost from tourism worth the disruption to daily life? The show was primarily shot in the stunning coastal counties of Antrim and Down, with iconic spots like Glenarm Castle, Tollymore Forest, and the Mourne Mountains taking center stage. Belfast’s film studios also played a key role, showcasing Northern Ireland’s thriving TV and film industry. Yet, residents have mixed feelings—some celebrate the influx of visitors and the use of local facilities by cast and crew, while others complain about road closures and restrictions during filming.
Richard Hodgen, a Game of Thrones tour guide and former extra, highlights what makes Northern Ireland so special: ‘It’s like having America’s most breathtaking landscapes condensed into a tiny area—castles, mountains, and coastlines all within an hour of Belfast.’ This accessibility, he argues, is why the region has become a magnet for filmmakers and tourists alike. But this is the part most people miss: the original series’ tourism boom has waned since its finale, and this spin-off is seen as a make-or-break moment to reignite fan fervor.
And this raises a thought-provoking question: Can A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms recapture the magic of Game of Thrones, or will it struggle to step out of its predecessor’s shadow? With its rich storytelling, breathtaking locations, and a fanbase hungry for more, the series has all the ingredients for success. But only time will tell if it can replicate the cultural impact—and economic windfall—of the original. What do you think? Will this spin-off soar, or is it destined to be a footnote in the Game of Thrones legacy? Let us know in the comments!
