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Bridge · Bushmills, Irlanda do Norte
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
The 20-metre rope bridge suspended about 30 metres above the sea, between the mainland and the islet of Carrick-a-Rede, near Ballintoy, used in the past by salmon fishermen. Managed by the National Trust.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge links the Antrim coast to the small island of Carrick-a-Rede, near the village of Ballintoy, about 13 km from Bushmills. It is around 20 metres long and sits roughly 30 metres above the sea. Salmon fishermen began putting a bridge here more than 350 years ago to reach the island, which lay in the path of migrating salmon. Fishing ended in 2002 due to a lack of fish.
The current bridge, of steel cables and wooden planks with side nets, was installed by the National Trust and is much safer than the old single-rope structures, but it still sways in the wind. Crossings are made in small groups, controlled by staff, and there is no other way back from the island except the bridge.
The path to the bridge leaves from the car park and follows about 1 km along the cliff edge, with views of Rathlin Island and, on clear days, the coast of Scotland. On the island there is an old fisherman's cottage and viewing points over the sea, with seabirds such as kittiwakes and fulmars on the cliffs. The sea there shows blue and green tones because of the light-coloured limestone seabed.
The crossing usually requires a time-ticket and can be suspended in strong winds or bad weather; check in advance.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1 to 1.5 hours including the return walk and the crossing.
Best time
On a low-wind day, first thing at opening, with a pre-booked time. In summer the queue to cross grows. In strong winds the bridge closes.
How to get there
It’s on the B15 road, near Ballintoy, about 13 km from the Calçada dos Gigantes and 90 km from Belfast. The coastal bus stops nearby in season. Day tours from Belfast often include the bridge.
Tip
Book a time in advance and arrive a little early, as the path to the bridge takes about 20 minutes. Afterwards, walk down to Ballintoy harbour, 2 km away, a stony harbour that appears in Game of Thrones.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge
Is the Carrick-a-Rede bridge safe?
The current bridge, of steel cables with side nets, is maintained by the National Trust and crossings are controlled by staff. It sways in the wind.
Do you need to book?
Crossing usually requires a timed-entry ticket. Check in advance.
Does the bridge close in bad weather?
Yes, it can be suspended in strong winds or storms.