Bregagh Road, better known as the Dark Hedges, near Ballymoney in County Antrim, is one of Northern Ireland’s most photographed sights - a tunnel of twisting beech branches made famous by Game of Thrones’ Kingsroad, roughly a 30-minute drive from the Giant’s Causeway.
The Trees
Planted around 1775 by James Stuart to line the avenue leading to his home, Gracehill House, the beeches are around 250 years old today. Originally about 150 trees, only just over 90 remain, with losses including several felled by Storm Gertrude in 2016. A 2014 survey (funded by the Dark Hedges Preservation Trust and the Causeway Coast & Glens Heritage Trust) recorded 94 trees still standing at that point.
Health and safety: the road was closed to vehicle traffic in 2017 to protect both visitors and the ageing trees, whose branches can and do break. Avoid walking directly beneath them during or after storms.
Gracehill House
Named for James Stuart’s wife, Grace Lynd, Gracehill House and its estate date back to the early 17th century, when the land was originally granted under King James I. It’s now privately owned, operating as a bar, restaurant, wedding venue, and golf course - open to visitors for a meal, drink, or round of golf. One of the ten Game of Thrones-themed doors carved from fallen Dark Hedges trees (this one from a tree felled by Storm Gertrude) is on display here during opening hours.
Where to Get the Best Photos
The southern end of the road, where it bends, is generally considered the best vantage point - many visitors miss this and only photograph the northern end. A designated car park is available a short walk away; arrive early, as tour buses cluster here in the afternoon.
Game of Thrones: The Kingsroad
The Dark Hedges appeared as the Kingsroad in Season 2’s opening episode, “The North Remembers,” featuring Arya Stark’s escape from King’s Landing. The location has also appeared in other productions, including Transformers: The Last Knight.
The Grey Lady
A well-known local ghost story: a spectral woman said to drift along Bregagh Road between the trees, vanishing at the final beech. Various origin stories exist - a maid, James Stuart’s daughter, or a lost soul from a nearby graveyard - with local tradition holding she’s joined by other spirits on Halloween night.
Practical Information
Parking: coach and car parking, plus toilets, are available at the Dark Hedges Estate - contact the estate directly for arrangements rather than parking on the roadside.
Conservation: a Tree Preservation Order has protected the Dark Hedges since 2004; the Dark Hedges Preservation Trust, established 2009, works with Heritage Lottery funding to protect and interpret the site. Please don’t litter or damage the trees.
