Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is one of Northern Ireland’s most thrilling attractions. Suspended nearly 100 feet above the crashing Atlantic waves, this slender bridge connects the mainland to the tiny, rugged island of Carrick-a-Rede. It was originally built by salmon fishermen over 250 years ago to check their nets, but today it is a world-famous spot for anyone looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush and some of the best coastal views in the country.

What to See and Do

• The Crossing: The bridge is about 65 feet long. Walking across can be a bit shaky, especially if there is a breeze, but it is perfectly safe! The view looking straight down through the wooden slats at the turquoise water below is exhilarating.
• The Island: Once you cross over, you can explore the small island. It is a fantastic place to spot seabirds like fulmars and kittywakes. On a clear day, you can see right across the water to Rathlin Island and even the coast of Scotland.
• The Coastal Walk: To get to the bridge, you follow a beautiful coastal path from the car park. It is a great way to build up the anticipation before the big crossing.
• The Fishermen’s Cottage: You can see the tiny white-walled cottage on the island where the salmon fishermen used to store their gear and rest between catches.

For Walkers and Explorers

• The Route: The walk from the visitor centre to the bridge is about 0.6 miles each way (1.2 miles round trip).
• The Surface: The path is well-maintained and mostly gravel, but it is quite narrow in places.
• The Terrain: It is a fairly hilly walk with some steep steps, especially as you approach the bridge itself. You’ll definitely want a decent pair of walking shoes.
• Nearby Trails: If you are a keen walker, the site is part of the much longer Causeway Coast Way, so you can continue walking along the cliffs in either direction for miles of incredible scenery.

Good to Know Before You Go

• Average Visit: Most people spend about 1 to 1.5 hours here.
• Who is it for? It is great for families with older children, couples, and photography fans. However, if you are very afraid of heights, you might find the bridge a bit daunting!
• Restrictions: There are no specific age or height limits, but small children must be able to walk across or be carried in a secure front-facing harness. Buggies and dogs are not allowed across the bridge for safety reasons.
• Weather: In very high winds or stormy weather, the bridge will be closed for safety. If it’s a bit drizzly, it stays open, but the steps can get slippery.
• Parking & Food: There is a large car park on-site. There is a small coffee shop near the entrance called the Weighbridge Tea Room which serves local cakes and hot drinks. It can be a bit pricey, so many people bring a flask and a snack to enjoy at the picnic tables.

Planning Your Trip

• Postcode: BT54 6LS
• County: County Antrim
• Opening Times: The site usually opens around 9:00 am. Closing times change throughout the year, staying open much later in the summer and closing earlier in the winter.

Ways to Save

• National Trust: If you are a member of the National Trust, crossing the bridge and parking are completely free.
• Booking is Vital: You must book a timed slot online before you arrive. If you just turn up, they might not have space for you to cross, as they limit the number of people on the bridge at one time.
• The Coastal View: If you decide you are too nervous to cross the bridge once you see it, you can still enjoy the coastal walk and the views of the bridge for free (though you may still have to pay for parking).

Nearby Attractions

You are right on the North Coast, so you are close to Ballintoy Harbour, a tiny, picturesque fishing village that was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. The Giant’s Causeway is only a 15-minute drive away, and the beautiful beach at Ballycastle is just a short trip in the other direction.