Overlooking the sublime sea and built over the Atlantic waters, Carrick-a-Rede Bridge is arguably one of the most unusual bridges in the world. Such is the charm of this bridge that, over the years, it has created its own identity as one of the must-visit tourist attractions on the Antrim Coast of Northern Ireland.
There is a lot to learn about the history of Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and you can even walk across it if you are feeling brave enough.
Many visitors to Northern Ireland will plan a day trip from Belfast to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. So we have created a guide to visiting the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, covering all you should be aware of before your visit.
No time to read now? No problem, save a pin to your Pinterest board for later!
A Guide to Visiting the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Table of Contents
Planning Your Trip
We use the below booking platforms to plan our trips. We hope you find them useful too!
Where to Stay in Northern Ireland
There is a wide range of accommodations available in Belfast, so you will not be short on options. Here are our top suggestions for the best places to stay in Belfast for any budget.
Luxury – A stay at The Culloden Estate and Spa will be a luxurious break during your trip to Belfast. Located only a 10 minute drive from the city of Belfast, this accommodation has 12 acres of woodland to walk around. You can also expect a hot tub, swimming pool, gym and a fine dining restaurant at the Culloden Estate and Spa.
Book your stay at the The Culloden Estate and Spa here.
Mid-Range – The Warren Belfast is a beautiful accommodation located in a great area in Belfast. Continental breakast is offered.
Book your stay at the Warren Belfast Hotel here.
Budget –Dream Apartments St Thomas Hall is an affordable accommodation that offers self-catering facilities and a washing machine. It has a comfortable lounge area to relax in after a day of exploring the city of Belfast.
An Insight into Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is one of the most historic bridges, dating back to being 350 years old. Tourists from across the globe visit this fascinating site every year.
The rope bridge is known to connect a tiny island off the coast with the mainland in Country Antrim in Northern Ireland. The best thing about this peculiar bridge is the fact that it is swaying at the height of 100 feet above the sea level of the Atlantic Ocean. Yes, that means you are above the Atlantic sea when you are on this bridge.
Here are some facts about the famous rope bridge in Northern Ireland.
- The name Carrick-a-Rede comes from Gaelic and it means the rock of the road.
- The bridge was built in 1755 by fishermen as the mode to reach the island, which was a fishing haven, without the use of a boat.
- In case you are not sure how to pronounce the name (which you are most certainly), it’s “carrikareed”. You might hear locals also pronouncing it as “carrikareedee”.
- Talking about the length of the bridge, well, it’s 20 meters long and 30 meters above sea level.
- Although the bridge looks like it would be dangerous and risky, no accidents or casualties have been reported since it was opened to the public in 2004.
How to Visit Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Planning a road trip to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is simple if you are visiting Belfast. This popular tourist site is located near the town of Ballycastle, which is about 9 miles east of Giant’s Causeway.
If you are visiting Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in your own vehicle, there is plenty of parking onsite. If you are a National Trust member you can access for free but you still must pre-book to cross the rope bridge whether you have a membership or not.
With the ticket, you will book a time to cross the bridge and spend some time on the island and this also includes your parking fee. If you are arriving in a motorhome or other vehicle that is higher than 2m you will need to call in advance to ask for the height barrier to be opened.
From the car park, the bridge is more than half a mile. So, make sure you leave in good time to get to the bridge.
It’s important to note that the bridge is occasionally closed in November for maintenance purposes and it is closed yearly on 24th and 25th December.
How Carrick-a-Rede was Formed
The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge has plenty of geological evidence of being a volcanic site. Such as explosion breccias, tuff, explosion bobs, and grey volcanic ash, that clearly states that all these were created as a result of the violence of the molten rock punched through the soft chalk some 60 million years ago.
As a result, there is the Antrim Plateau along the coast of the North Antrim Coast. At Carrickarede, there is a dolerite rock (hard rock), and further to the south are pyroclastic rocks (soft rock). The combination of soft rock and hard rock with long-term erosion has eventually created this island.
Things to be Aware of Before Visiting Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Is Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Safe
Looking at a photo of Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, you may wonder if it is safe? It sure is, the bridge is well-maintained to ensure the safety of visitors.
In addition to that, no visitors are allowed to cross the bridge in bad weather conditions. If you are nervous of heights, it is worth being prepared for the bridge to feel a little bouncy which can make it a bit nerve-racking. Two wooden planks are well-laid across a series of woven wire supports to ensure easy walking on the bridge.
Dress Appropriately
The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge walk can expose you to chilly weather. Being out on the island can get quite windy so it is worth making sure you haev a layer in case you need it. Even in the summer season, the weather could be extremely windy and chilly. You might also want to pack a waterproof so you don’t need to rush back if it starts raining!
Getting a Photo is Often Tricky Here
There tends to be a bit of a queue getting onto the bridge so if you do want to snap a pic, you will need to be quick as you will be moved on and another person will be entering onto the bridge.
The Walk is Short and Quick
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge isn’t very long so you will be across the other side in a minute. As you walk along, take in the gorgeous views of the sparkling blue ocean beneath you.
Once you are over on the island we would recommend bringing a picnic and spending some time over there enjoying the fresh sea air if the weather is nice.
Places to Visit Near the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Whilst you are exploring the area, there are plenty more things to do near Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. If you are visiting the Northern Ireland coastline over a few days, you could come up with a great itinerary to enjoy the best sights!
Kinbane Castle
Built in 1547 by Colla MacDonnell, Kinbane Castle is one of the must-visit tourist places near Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. The name of the castle, Kinbane, means White Head which refers to the white limestone on which the castle is located.
In 1555, Kinbane Castle was partly destroyed as a result of cannon fire and was also inhabited until the 1700s. One of the key highlights of the castle is the “Hollow of the English,” which is a large sea cave in the rock underneath the castle.
Whitepark Bay
Whitepark Bay is one of the most stunning beaches in Northern Ireland. The beach forms a white arch between two headlands on the coast of North Antrim. The beach is secluded, and is a lovely place to relax on a calm day.
Surrounded by dunes, Whitepark Bay is also a wildlife haven so it is worth keeping an eye out for sea birds and marine life out at sea.
Ballintory Harbour
Ballintory Harbour is a beautiful picturesque village of Ballintoy which is also known as a ‘raised beach’. The village is situated alongside the B15 coast road and can be reached by a steep, winding spectacular road.
The harbour can be perfectly described as a painter’s paradise with rocky islands, sea stacks, a busy harbour, and pools. The harbour is a busy one that takes you to one of the most majestic cliffs in Europe. You can also enjoy a casual beach walk. There is also a harbour cafe along the harbour to chill and enjoy food. You can enjoy a picnic outside here if the sun is shining.
Dunluce Castle
Another key attraction in the region is Dunluce Castle. Strategically located on the sheer cliffs east of Portrush, the castle was built somewhere between the 1400s and 1600s.
Undoubtedly, it is one of the most beautiful castles in the region and mainly because of its dramatic location on the edge of the cliffs. Overlooking the vast expanse of sea, the castle offers spectacular panoramas of the region. You can stroll around the castle and descend a stairway that takes you to the cave beneath Dunluce.
Old Bushmills Distillery
Old Bushmills is one of the oldest distilleries in Country Antrim in Northern Ireland. The distillery is located on the beautiful North Coast.
You can discover the rich history at Old Bushmills Distillery – one of the world’s oldest distilleries. It was opened in 1608 and has been producing the finest fine whiskeys, which combine light grain whiskey and malt whiskey.
Not only the history, you can also learn about the production of Bushmills Whiskey. The whiskey is produced in small batches here at this distillery, and the mast usually takes 6.5 hours, and for fermentation, it is kept for 58 hours in the washbacks.
If you are a whiskey fan, it is definitely well worth a visit!
Causeway Coastal Route Attractions
If you have more time to spend in the area, the raw and rugged beauty of the Causeway Coastal Route is worth every effort. The landscape on the route is breathtaking, and it also truly entices the thrill of an ultimate adventure in Ireland.
The coastal route runs for around 130 miles along the coast, starting from Belfast and Londonderry. This northern route has everything to offer you with an ultimate experience ranging from adventure to castles to stunning landscapes.
Not only this, you will also get a chance to visit the iconic filming locations of Game of Thrones. Apart from that, there are sandy beaches for a quality, peaceful time, and not forgetting, the Giant’s Causeway – a World Heritage Site.
Some of the key highlights of the Causeway Coastal Route are Carrickfergus Castle, The Gobbins, Glenarm Castle & Gardens, Torr Head, The Dark Hedges, Ballintoy, and Londonderry.
Before You Leave for Northern Ireland
Before you set off on your way to Northern Ireland, there are a number of things you will need to get organised to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey. These include what to pack, where to stay and what is the best insurance for your trip. All of this is discussed in detail below.
How to Get to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
To reach the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge in Northern Ireland, you can drive or take public transportation to the designated parking area near the bridge. From there, follow a picturesque coastal path that leads you to the ticket office where you can purchase your entry ticket. After obtaining your ticket, continue along the well-marked trail that will take you to the iconic rope bridge, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and turquoise waters. Remember to wear sturdy footwear and prepare for some moderate walking along the scenic route. Once you cross the bridge and experience the thrill of being suspended above the sea, take your time to savor the beauty of this unique attraction before making the return journey back along the coastal path.
Where to Stay in Northern Ireland
There is a wide range of accommodations available in Belfast, so you will not be short on options. Here are our top suggestions for the best places to stay in Belfast for any budget.
Luxury – A stay at The Culloden Estate and Spa will be a luxurious break during your trip to Belfast. Located only a 10 minute drive from the city of Belfast, this accommodation has 12 acres of woodland to walk around. You can also expect a hot tub, swimming pool, gym and a fine dining restaurant at the Culloden Estate and Spa.
Book your stay at the The Culloden Estate and Spa here.
Mid-Range – The Warren Belfast is a beautiful accommodation located in a great area in Belfast. Continental breakast is offered.
Book your stay at the Warren Belfast Hotel here.
Budget –Dream Apartments St Thomas Hall is an affordable accommodation that offers self-catering facilities and a washing machine. It has a comfortable lounge area to relax in after a day of exploring the city of Belfast.
What to Pack for Your Trip to Northern Ireland
When it comes to packing for a trip to Northern Ireland, there is one item of clothing that you are going to need all year round: a waterproof coat. In Northern Ireland it rains more than 200 days a year, meaning that during your trip, you can expect rain at some point. Due to this, the number one item on your packing list is a good waterproof jacket (men’s / women’s).
Second to that, another item to not leave home without is a good pair of warm and, if possible, waterproof boots (men’s / women’s). A lot of the best sights in Northern Ireland can require a bit of walking to reach them and the conditions underfoot can become very muddy if it has been raining. You do not want to ruin a good pair of white trainers so pack some sturdy boots.
You will definitely need a hat and gloves during the winter months as the wind chill can be bitter.
Given the beautiful sights and scenery that you are no doubt going to see here, we highly recommend packing a good camera for your trip. If you want to read more about the cameras we use and why we love them, check out the link below.
You can read what else we keep in our camera bag over here.
Photography Equipment
Main Photography Camera – Sony A7v Mirrorless Camera and Sony A7iii Mirrorless Camera
Microphone – Sony Mic ECM-B1M
Main Lens – Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8
Zoom Lens – Tamron 70-180mm f/2.8
Camera Tripod – ZOMEI Z669C Camera Tripod
Gorilla Pod – JOBY JB01507-BWW GorillaPod
Action Camera – GoPro Hero 11 and Insta 360 One RS
Drone Camera – DJI Mavic Pro 3
Camera Bag – Wandrd PRVKE 41L and The Nest by Tropicfeel
Phone Tripod – Manfrotto MKPIXICLAMP-BK, Mini Tripod with Universal Smartphone Clamp
Sturdy Phone Tripod & Selfie Stick – ATUMTEK 61″ Selfie Stick Tripod, Sturdy Phone Tripod Stand with Wireless Remote
Hard Drives – LaCie Rugged Mini, 5TB, 2.5″, Portable External Hard Drive
SSD – SanDisk Extreme Pro 1TB Portable NVMe SSD
Travel Adapter –Worldwide Travel Adapter Universal Travel Plug with 4 USB Ports+Universal AC Socke
What is the Best Travel Insurance for Northern Ireland
I know travel insurance is the least enjoyable thing to purchase and look at when you’re planning a trip, however, you wouldn’t want to be without it in the event that something happened. Accidents can happen anywhere and the extortionate medical bills will ruin your trip if you are not covered.
To ensure you have a stress-free trip with no worries about potential medical bills, make sure you cover yourself when you travel. We can recommend using SafetyWing, a backpacker-friendly and cheap insurance company that provides good coverage and support. It is also nomad-friendly, unlike most other insurance companies, meaning you do not need to worry about being out of your home country for too long.
Get a quote for your travel insurance right here and get covered!
So there you have it, a Complete Guide to Visiting the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. If you are visiting this incredible place and have any other questions on what to expect, leave us a comment down below. We love to chat about this stuff! If you have already been, let us know how it was!
Also, remember to share this with your friends and family that you are going to share this amazing experience with. Sharing is caring and we want to ensure that everyone is fully prepared to maximise their experience completing this stunning road trip.
If you are planning an Ireland trip soon then check out our other Northern Ireland content right here. Come and find us on social media to see where we are currently exploring. Tag us in your photos from your stay and we will share them with the rest of our community of explorers and backpackers.
Read Now:
- A Complete Guide to Visiting the Ring of Kerry on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
- The Best Dublin 2 Day Itinerary – The Ultimate Guide for a Perfect Weekend in Dublin
- Camping in Ireland – Best Campsites
This article may contain affiliate links that provide us with a small income. For more information read our Affiliate page.
Pin it for later!
