BBC News: The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh have met cast and production members from Game of Thrones during a tour of the Paint Hall Studios in Belfast. The US television series is partly filmed in the city's Titanic Quarter, and is a focal point for Northern Ireland's burgeoning film industry. The Royal couple began their second day of engagements at Crumlin Road Gaol in north Belfast. They are on a three-day visit to Northern Ireland

As well as meeting cast and production staff, the Royal couple were also given a short overview of the series and the impact it has had on Northern Ireland, not only in terms of employment, but also in the creative arts field.The Queen and Prince Philip also viewed some of the props that have featured in the hit fantasy show. Before leaving, they were presented with a miniature version of the infamous Iron Throne, which appears in the series. (...)

Independent: The Queen and Prince Philip went on a tour of the Game of Thrones set in Northern Ireland today. The royals spent time chatting with stars of the HBO production, including 17-year-old Maisie Williams, who plays the spirited Arya Stark and 18-year-old Sophie Turner, Arya's elder and more reserved sister Sansa in the show.

Local Ballymena-born actor Conleth Hill who plays the maniputalive Lord Varys was also on hand to show the dramatic influence the hit show has had on telly addicts and the Northern Ireland economy. Lena Headey, who plays the conniving Queen Cersei Lannister, Kit Harington who plays Jon Snow and Rose Leslie also shook hands with the royal couple. George RR Martin's epic story has brought £82 million to the region in the biggest television production in Europe - the equivalent of 900 full-time and 5,700 part-time jobs.

The Queen was shown handmade costumes and props and armoury that has helped further the cult following Game of Thrones has built. She was also presented with a miniature replica of the Iron Throne of Westeros - the real seat is said to be coveted by only the most machiavellian of kings. David Benioff and Dan Weiss, executive producers and writers of Game of Thrones led the tour through the Paint Hall where the sets for the Red Keep and the Throne Room are housed.

The success of the show is furthering Northern Ireland's reputation as a go-to place for the film industry. A strong crew base, stunning locations, studio facilities and financial incentives, are ranking the region as one of the most sought-after filming locations for both film and television productions. After just over half hour at the studios the royal couple were driven out of the old shipyard area and into the heart of Belfast where a lunch was being held in their honour at the City Hall. (...)

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