Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge | Antrim

Information

Landmark: Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
City: Antrim
Country: Ireland
Continent: Europe

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Antrim, Ireland, Europe

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a suspension bridge linking the mainland of County Antrim to the tiny island of Carrickarede. It is situated near Ballintoy on the North Coast of Northern Ireland and is managed by the National Trust.

Visual Characteristics

The bridge spans a 20-meter wide chasm, suspended 30 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. It is constructed from wire rope and Douglas fir planks, featuring high-tensile netting on either side. The surrounding landscape consists of steep white chalk and basalt cliffs, with the island itself being a volcanic plug characterized by sparse grass and jagged rock edges.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located on the B147 Causeway Road, approximately 8km east of the Giant's Causeway. Translink bus services 170 and 402 (seasonal) provide connections from Coleraine and Ballycastle. A large paved parking area is available at the entrance. Access to the bridge requires a 1km walk along a gravel coastal path with several steep gradients and steps.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Fishermen have erected salmon wire bridges at this site for over 350 years to access the island's prime fishing waters. The current permanent structure was installed in 2008. The island is an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI), providing nesting grounds for razorbills, kittiwakes, and fulmars. The waters below are part of a protected marine area due to diverse kelp forests.

Key Highlights & Activities

Crossing the bridge is the primary activity, providing views of Rathlin Island and the Scottish coast. The coastal path offers birdwatching opportunities and sightings of basking sharks or dolphins in the water below. Visitors can view the remains of the traditional fisherman's cottage on the island, though interior access is generally restricted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

A visitor center, cafe (The Weighbridge), and restrooms are located near the parking area. There is no shade or shelter along the coastal path or on the island. 4G/5G cellular signal is available but can be disrupted by the high cliff faces. Timed ticketing is mandatory for crossing the bridge, as capacity is strictly limited.

Best Time to Visit

The bridge is open seasonally and may close without notice during high winds. The best months for weather are May through August. Early morning (09:00) or late afternoon slots are recommended to avoid peak tour bus crowds. Photography is best in the late afternoon when the sun illuminates the white chalk cliffs of the mainland.

Facts & Legends

While primarily a functional structure for salmon fishers, the bridge was historically much more precarious, often consisting of a single rope handrail and widely spaced slats. In 1784, a local fisherman was famously reported to have walked across the bridge carrying a 40lb salmon in one hand while the bridge swayed in a gale.