Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Walk

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Walk is a pretty short adventure along the Antrim Coast, and while you can explore most of the trail for free, if you are looking to actually cross over the rope bridge to reach the island, you will need to purchase a ticket. This really should be done online in advance so that you can secure your preferred crossing time, otherwise you will need to roll the dice on arrival and see if there are any openings. There are also some steep stairs leading down to the bridge, which might make the route unsuitable for less-mobile walkers. Additionally, dogs are not permitted to cross the bridge, so it would be best to leave your canine companions at home for this one.

All of these minor inconveniences aside, this is a fun little trail that offers a unique experience and will provide some stunning views of the rugged coastal terrain. After making the walk out to the bridge, you will be able to cross over its swaying expanse to a small island that had for centuries been used by local fishermen. If you are looking for a quick and easy adventure for some weekend fun, then this is definitely a great option.

Setting out from the trailhead, you will make your way east along the trail to pass by the ticket office. If you need to purchase a ticket or pick yours up after booking online, now is the time to do so. From here, you will make your way along the edge of the coast and enjoy some spectacular views of the sea, continuing on for 0.6mi to reach the stairs leading down to the bridge.

Hopefully you have timed your walk perfectly to line up with your time slot, allowing you to head right down to the bridge and make your way across. Here, you will be walking along a swaying rope bridge that is suspended 30m above the rocky coast below, eventually making your way over to the small offshore island of Carrickarede. After exploring the landscape and taking in the stunning views, simply head back across the bridge and retrace your steps on the way back to the trailhead where you began the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Walk.

Trail Highlights

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Linking the small offshore island of Carrickarede to the mainland, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is a popular tourist attraction that sees just under 500,000 visitors per year and is operated by the National Trust. Bridges leading across to the island are thought to have been in use by local salmon fishermen for hundreds of years; however, with the decline in salmon populations this practice has stopped. The bridge spans a distance of 20m and stands at a height of 98ft above the rugged coastal terrain below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are dogs allowed to cross the bridge to Carrick-a-Rede?

While dogs are permitted to walk the coastal trails, they are not allowed to cross over the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge.

Is the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge free?

Exploring the coastal trails and looking out onto the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge is free; however, if you would like to cross over the bridge you will need to purchase a ticket.