Long-time throne occupier to visit set of hit TV show

The Queen is to visit the Game of Thrones set during a visit to Northern Ireland. Photo / AP

It is the hit television programme that depicts the violent clashes between dozens of families as they compete for the throne of a fictional country.

However, the set of Game of Thrones will play host to a ruler who has managed to hold her throne longer than any of her fictional counterparts in the popular HBO series.

The Queen is to visit the set of the fantasy drama during a three-day visit to Northern Ireland, which will also see her meet with former IRA commander Martin McGuinness.

With the Duke of Edinburgh, the Queen will tour the studios in Belfast, where Game of Thrones is filmed.

Game of Thrones is estimated to be the biggest TV production in Europe and its first four seasons have been credited with bringing a direct economic benefit of 82 million ($160 million) to Northern Ireland, creating the equivalent of more than 900 full-time and 5700 part-time jobs.

Other notable engagements in the Queen and Duke's schedule include a visit to the historic Crumlin Road Gaol.

Once a prison synonymous with the dark years of The Troubles, its transformation into a popular visitor attraction is symbolic of Northern Ireland's journey away from conflict.

The Royal couple will also be guests at a reception and lunch at Belfast City Hall and will attend a garden party at Hillsborough Castle - the Queen's official residence in northern Ireland.

The castle is also playing host to experts and crew from the Antiques Roadshow next week and the Queen and Duke will stop by to visit them during their stay.

During her time across the Irish Sea, Her Majesty will also attend a Royal British Legion reception in Coleraine in Co Londonderry where she will launch a programme of activities commemorating World War I.

Her Majesty is set to meet Mr McGuinness next week on what will be the Royal couple's 21st visit to the region and the first since 2012.