Inch Abbey, located near Downpatrick in County Down, Northern Ireland, is a historic Cistercian monastery with a significant presence in both medieval history and popular culture, particularly due to its association with the television series "Game of Thrones."

Inch Abbey was founded in 1180 by John de Courcy, a Norman knight, as a Cistercian monastery. The abbey served as a center for religious life and agricultural activities. Situated on the north bank of the River Quoile, Inch Abbey boasts a picturesque setting with scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The name "Inch" is thought to derive from the Irish word "inis," meaning island, possibly referring to the site's location on a river island.

The ruins of Inch Abbey showcase distinctive Cistercian architecture, characterised by pointed arches and rib-vaulted ceilings. The abbey includes a church, cloister, chapter house, and other structures typical of Cistercian monasteries.

Game of Thrones Filming Location

Inch Abbey gained modern recognition as a filming location for HBO’s "Game of Thrones." In the television series, Inch Abbey was featured in Season 1, portraying the Riverlands and serving as the backdrop for several significant scenes.

Inch Abbey was notably used to represent the camp of Robb Stark, the eldest son of Eddard Stark, in Season 1 of "Game of Thrones." The atmospheric ruins and the scenic backdrop of the River Quoile added to the authenticity of the scenes set in the Riverlands.

Today, Inch Abbey is open to the public, allowing you to explore the historic ruins and appreciate the serene surroundings. Interpretive panels provide information about the abbey's history and its role in medieval Northern Ireland.