Key Facts About Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
- Length: 20 meters (66 feet).
- Height: 30 meters (98 feet) above the ocean.
- Built: First constructed in 1755 by salmon fishermen.
- Location: Near Ballintoy, County Antrim, along the Causeway Coastal Route.
- Managed by: The National Trust.
What to Expect When Visiting
- Scenic Coastal Walk
- A 1-kilometer (0.6-mile) cliffside trail leads to the bridge, offering spectacular views of Rathlin Island, Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre, and the Antrim coastline.
- Rich in wildflowers and seabirds, including puffins, razorbills, and guillemots.
- The Rope Bridge Experience
- Suspended high above the sea, the bridge sways slightly with movement.
- Visitors can cross to Carrick-a-Rede Island, once home to seasonal salmon fishing.
- The island offers panoramic views of the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters below.
- History of the Bridge
- Originally built by fishermen in the 18th century to access the best salmon fishing spots.
- The bridge was once much more dangerous, with just a single handrail and widely spaced wooden planks.
- Fishing declined in the 20th century, but the bridge remains a famous attraction.
Things to Do Nearby
- Giant’s Causeway (15-minute drive) – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with unique hexagonal basalt columns.
- Ballintoy Harbour – A stunning, peaceful harbor featured in Game of Thrones.
- Dunluce Castle – A dramatic medieval castle perched on the cliffs.
- The Dark Hedges – A famous tunnel of beech trees, also featured in Game of Thrones.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring & Summer (April–September) – Best weather, longer daylight hours, and lush green scenery.
- Autumn & Winter (October–March) – Fewer tourists, but can be windy and wet (bridge may close in extreme weather).