Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge - Image 1
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Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

4.6
·9k reviews·Ballintoy, United Kingdom

A thrilling rope bridge suspended over the wild North Atlantic, connecting the mainland to a tiny island with dramatic coastal views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light & fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
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Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge - Image 1

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best light & fewer crowds

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A thrilling rope bridge suspended over the wild North Atlantic, connecting the mainland to a tiny island with dramatic coastal views.

4.6
(9k reviews)

"Absolute beauty! This place is picture perfect, a much anticipated highlight of our UK journey."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Bridge Status First

Bridge may close due to wind. Check online or call ahead to save a wasted trip! :warning:

Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot and avoid queues by booking tickets in advance, especially during busy periods. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Rope Bridge

The Iconic Rope Bridge

Connecting mainland to Carrick Island

Experience the thrill of crossing this historic rope bridge suspended over the wild North Atlantic. A true test of nerve with stunning views!

Coastal Hike & Views

Coastal Hike & Views

Path from car park to bridge

Enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk with breathtaking coastal vistas. The path offers dramatic cliffs and ocean panoramas.

Carrick Island Exploration

Carrick Island Exploration

The small island

Discover the unique flora and fauna on Carrick Island, once a vital fishing spot. The island offers a different perspective of the coastline.

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Planning Your Visit

Check the Weather & Bridge Status

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge can close due to high winds, even if the weather seems okay. Always check the official status before you go to avoid disappointment. High winds can impact the bridge's safety and accessibility.

Book Tickets in Advance

While not always mandatory, booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season. This helps manage visitor numbers and ensures you get your preferred time slot, avoiding long queues.

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light & fewer crowds
Crowd
Medium
When
September afternoons
Why
Quieter, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#luxurystay #causewaycoast #discoverireland #sunriselovers #exploremore #travelireland #ballintoy #visitireland #getaway @Hidden Hotspots @Irish Explorer @Jamie Beattie @Sarah ✌🏻
@carrickarederetreat
11.4K likes • 419.3K views

Check Bridge Status First

Bridge may close due to wind. Check online or call ahead to save a wasted trip! :warning:

Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot and avoid queues by booking tickets in advance, especially during busy periods. :ticket:

Replying to @mrsnetrix Carrick a rede Rope Bridge and Kinbane Castle stay at the top of my list 🏰 #exploringni #northernireland #carrickarederopebridge #kinbanecastle #kinbanehead #northernireland #visitni #thingstodoinbelfast #belfasttiktok #castlesofnorthernireland
@jgendron10
9.2K likes • 233.7K views
Super capture of Carrick-A-Reed Rooe Bridge by @thedronecreative 🙌☘️ Have you been here? The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a rope bridge near Ballintoy in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The bridge links the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede. It spans 20 metres and is 30 metres above the rocks below. #northernireland #carrickarede
best_of_ireland
12K likes • 574.4K views

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The walk to the bridge is about 15 mins on a paved path. Good grip is helpful. :athletic_shoe:

Stay Hydrated

Carry water, especially in summer. The hike can be warm and the views are worth the effort. :droplet:

Have you crossed the Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge ? ☘️ . . #carrickarede #carrickarederopebridge #ireland #northernireland #northernirelandtraveller #travel #causeway #causewaycoast #northcoast #causewaycoastalroute #irish
travellernorthernireland
2.8K likes • 62K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Bridge Status First

Bridge may close due to wind. Check online or call ahead to save a wasted trip! :warning:

Book Tickets Online

Secure your spot and avoid queues by booking tickets in advance, especially during busy periods. :ticket:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

The walk to the bridge is about 15 mins on a paved path. Good grip is helpful. :athletic_shoe:

Stay Hydrated

Carry water, especially in summer. The hike can be warm and the views are worth the effort. :droplet:

Free Car Park Toilets

Convenient and free toilet facilities are available at the main car park. :toilet:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(9k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking coastal scenery and the unique thrill of crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. The well-maintained path and the island's natural beauty are highlights. However, the bridge's closure due to wind can be a significant disappointment for those who travel specifically to experience it.

"Very cool rope bridge here. They will close it if unsafe due to wind, which is too bad. You can park at nearby car park and the hike is about 15 minutes but very easy. Such nice views and very beautiful area. Free toilet use as well at the car park."

Jean-Francois LeBlanc

"One of the loveliest hikes we’ve done. Well organized, wasn’t too busy in September and we enjoyed the place without many visitors at this time of year. The rope bridge is well maintained."

Mohamed Dahlawi

"Absolute beauty! This place is picture perfect, a much anticipated highlight of our UK journey. The story behind it, the hike to it, it's sorrounding areas, we loved it all! Would love to come back here soon."

Mery Anm Batista Cruz

What People Like

Stunning coastal views
Unique rope bridge experience
Scenic walk

What People Dislike

Bridge closures due to wind

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Carrick-a-Rede is located on the Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland. It's accessible by car, with a dedicated car park. Public transport options are limited, so driving is the most convenient way to reach it. The car park is about a 15-minute walk from the bridge itself. Reddit

Yes, there is a car park available for visitors. It's a short walk from the car park to the bridge, and the path is well-maintained. Parking fees may apply, so check the official website for current charges. Reddit

While possible, visiting without a car can be challenging due to limited public transport links directly to the site. Many visitors opt for organized tours or rent a car for flexibility along the Causeway Coastal Route. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to guarantee entry and manage visitor flow. While walk-up tickets may be available, they are subject to availability. Reddit

There is an admission fee to cross the rope bridge, which includes access to the island and the coastal walk. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official National Trust website for the most up-to-date pricing information. Reddit

Opening hours vary seasonally. It's crucial to check the official National Trust website for the specific opening and closing times for the date you plan to visit, as they can change. Reddit

Yes, the rope bridge can be closed at short notice due to adverse weather conditions, particularly high winds, for safety reasons. It's advisable to check the bridge's status on the day of your visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The walk from the car park to the rope bridge is approximately 15 minutes and is generally considered easy to moderate. It's a paved path with some inclines, offering beautiful coastal views along the way. Reddit

Once you cross the bridge, you can explore Carrick Island, which was historically used by fishermen. It offers unique perspectives of the coastline and a chance to appreciate the natural beauty of the area. Reddit

Yes, there are free toilet facilities available at the main car park, which is convenient for visitors. Reddit

Visiting in the morning or late afternoon can help you avoid the largest crowds. September is often recommended for a quieter experience with pleasant weather. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The views from the rope bridge itself are spectacular, offering dramatic shots of the cliffs and sea. The coastal path leading to the bridge also provides numerous vantage points for capturing the rugged landscape. Reddit

While encouraged, exercise caution when taking photos on the bridge. Ensure you have a secure grip on your camera or phone and are aware of your surroundings and other visitors. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the blues of the sky and sea. Consider a camera strap for security on the bridge. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The walk to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a manageable 15 minutes, making it suitable for most families. The path is paved and offers stunning views that can captivate children. While crossing the bridge itself might be a bit daunting for very young or fearful children, many families find their kids enjoy the adventure. Encourage them to look at the sea birds and the island, rather than just down! There are free toilets at the car park, which is always a plus for families. Reddit

Consider bringing snacks and drinks, especially during warmer months, as the walk can be tiring. The story of the fishermen who used the bridge can also be a fun element to share with kids to make the experience more engaging. Always supervise children closely, especially near the bridge and cliff edges.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers & Nature Lovers

For hikers and nature enthusiasts, Carrick-a-Rede offers a rewarding experience. The coastal path provides spectacular panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Rathlin Island, and the Scottish coastline on a clear day. The area is rich in birdlife, and the rugged terrain is a delight for those who appreciate natural beauty. The 15-minute walk is more of a scenic stroll than a strenuous hike, but the surrounding landscape offers plenty to explore. Reddit

Combine your visit with other walks along the Causeway Coast for a more immersive nature experience. The well-maintained paths make it accessible, but always be prepared for changeable coastal weather. The thrill of crossing the rope bridge adds a unique element to the natural exploration.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Engineering of the Bridge

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge has a fascinating history, originally erected by salmon fishermen in 1676 to access the rich fishing grounds around the island. For centuries, it was a functional, albeit rudimentary, crossing. The current bridge is a modern reconstruction, designed to withstand the harsh Atlantic elements while maintaining the spirit of the original. It's a testament to engineering ingenuity, built to sway gently with the wind, offering a thrilling yet secure experience for visitors. The National Trust meticulously maintains the bridge to ensure its safety and longevity. Reddit

The story behind the bridge is as compelling as the views it offers. It represents a connection to a bygone era of coastal life and the resilience of those who worked the sea. The engineering ensures that while you feel the movement of the wind and waves, the structure remains stable. This blend of history and modern safety makes crossing the bridge a unique adventure. Reddit

Navigating the Causeway Coastal Route

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a jewel along the world-renowned Causeway Coastal Route, a scenic drive that winds through some of Northern Ireland's most spectacular landscapes. This route is famous for its dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and iconic landmarks like the Giant's Causeway. Many visitors combine a trip to Carrick-a-Rede with other attractions along the coast, making it a perfect day trip or part of a longer itinerary. Reddit

When planning your journey along the Causeway Coastal Route, consider allocating ample time to truly soak in the scenery. The roads can be narrow and winding, and there are numerous viewpoints and attractions to stop at. Car hire is the most popular way to explore, offering the freedom to stop whenever a breathtaking vista catches your eye. Alternatively, numerous guided tours operate from Belfast and other major cities, providing a hassle-free way to see the highlights. Reddit

Key stops along the route often include the Giant's Causeway, Dunluce Castle, and the Dark Hedges. Carrick-a-Rede fits perfectly into this itinerary, offering a different kind of natural wonder and a touch of adrenaline. Remember to check opening times and book tickets in advance for popular attractions, especially during the summer months. Reddit

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