
Carrick-a-Rede
Famous for its rope bridge, (unique in Ireland) – which connects the mainland to Carrick-a-Rede Island.
The island until recently was an active salmon fishery, with an old fisherman’s bothy, old ropes, and nets still visible.
Now a major tourist attraction offering an exhilarating coastal path and rope bridge experience from the cliffs to the rocky island, with stunning views of Rathlin and the Scottish Isles, as well as a noisy seabird colony.
On route to the island, the grassy slopes and rocky outcrops are awash with colour in late spring/summer (the site is an Area of Special Scientific Interest), on the basis of its flora and unique geology – being at the centre of an ancient volcano.
County
Antrim
Distance
0.7 (One Way) miles
OS Map
Sheet 5
Nearest Town
Ballintoy
Route Shape
Linear
Route Type
Coastal, Hill
Terrain
Gravel paths, stone steps
Grid Reference (Start)
D051448
Grid Reference (End)
D051448
Point of Interest
Rope bridge, coastal views, porpoise and dolphin spotting
Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Causeway Coast
Route Description
From the car park, the route to the rope bridge passes by an information hut (where a small pedestrian charge is levied) – keep good care of your ticket, as you will need this as proof to cross the rope bridge. Along the coastal path to the bridge, you will notice flower-rich meadow grasslands on the cliff slopes and occasional grazing cattle. All along the coastal path, the views of Rathlin Island and the Scottish Isles are breathtaking – the Mull of Kintyre is the closest part of Scotland and most visible, just beyond Rathlin. And immediately below the path, in crystal clear sea water – there is often a good chance of spotting porpoises or dolphins (even a basking shark in summer is a possibility).
As you start the steep descent to the island and rope bridge, the noisy seabird colony will become more and more audible by the step. Guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and fulmars are the main breeding bird species (bird guidebooks and binoculars are available for hire). You will know you are nearing the bridge, as there is usually a line of patient tourists waiting to cross…some nervously. Occasionally, if wind speed records exceed the recommended safety limits, the bridge has to be closed, and with a 30 metre chasm to cross – the site wardens have the final say!
Having negotiated the rope bridge safely, the island can be explored via marked paths (visitors are reminded to observe the signs and take responsibility for their own actions). On fully exploring the island – those nervous visitors have to once again build up their confidence for the return leg. Again waiting times are usually in place to cross back over. The return to the car park is by way of the same route or a short circular detour which links back to the main path.
* Please note that National Trust entrance pricing applies for this walk. It is essential to book in advance to ensure you have an allocated slot. Check on the National Trust website for details on how to book. Please see the link below for details *
Getting to the Start (by Public Transport)
Translink - journeyplanner.translink.co.uk
Getting to the Start (by Car)
Carrick-a-Rede is on the Causeway Coastal Route and is located 5 miles west of Ballycastle (B15).
Accessibility Grade
Please note that the bridge is 0.7 miles from the car park along a coastal path, which can be narrow and includes some steep steps.
Accessible Facilities
The following facilities are available for users with limited mobility:
![]() | Café (wheelchair accessible) |
![]() | Shop (wheelchair accessible) |
![]() | Disabled toilets |
![]() | Wheelchair available |
Facilities
Opening times early season 10.00 am to 5.15 pm (with summer opening hours 10.00 am to 6.15pm).
Car park, Toilets, Picnic area, Interpretation, Tea room & Viewing platform all available. National Trust staff on duty March-October.
For all enquiries please contact the National Trust Office - tel: 028 2076 9839.
Publication
Carrick-a-Rede Guide Book (£4.00). Also listed in "Your Guide to Walking in the Causeway Coast + Glens" - Walk No 16.
Publication Availability
Carrick-a-Rede Guide Book available to purchase on site at Carrick-a-Rede. Causeway Coast + Glens Walking Guide - available to download on this webpage.
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