Winter is coming, and so is Mark Addy, better known as King Robert Baratheon on Game of Thrones, to Winterfell Festival at Castle Ward.

The festival will take place on Sunday, September 16 when special guests and entertainment will transform the historic National Trust estate into Winterfell, home of House Stark in the world-famous HBO production Game of Thrones.

King Robert, played by Addy who has a central role in series one, will be making a special guest appearance at Castle Ward, the only heritage property used in the hit drama that is largely filmed in Northern Ireland.

Addy, an award-winning actor and BAFTA nominee will host two intimate Q&A sessions at the Winterfell Festival where an audience of fans will have the opportunity to ask questions and get an insight on what it is like to be part of one of the biggest televisions shows in the world.

Tickets to the sessions with Mark are free and will be available through the National Trust ticketing website from Wednesday, September 5 at 10am; however visitors must already have purchased a ticket to the festival to attend the Q&A.

As places are limited, tickets will be allocated on a first come first served basis, so fans are advised to book early to avoid disappointment. Guests attending the session will also receive an exclusive signed photograph of Mark.

Armourer Boyd Rankin, who played blacksmith Mikken in Game of Thrones, will showcase a selection of the swords he forged for the show, and two of the original Stark family Direwolf Dogs, Grey Wind and Summer, will also be making a special appearance.

Jacqueline Baird, General Manager Castle Ward said: “Winterfell Festival continues to be a must-attend event for Game of Thrones fans and we are delighted to welcome Mark Addy, Aka King Robert Baratheon back to the home of the Stark family.

"For those who aren’t lucky enough to get their hands on a ticket to the sessions, there is still plenty of interesting and exciting activities to explore throughout the day across this unique site. The King’s Tournament Games offers fans thrilling displays of Sword fighting, falconry and jousting from the Devils Horsemen. Journey along the Kings Road to the Inn at the Crossroads, where characters from the show await; ‘Take the black’ with the Night’s Watch and spot the White Walkers near the barrows of the first men."

Day tickets for Winterfell Festival event, which is supported by NI Tourism and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council, cost £25 with access to a full programme of events and entertainment.

For more information on Winterfell Festival 2018 head to The National Trust.

Belfast Telegraph