Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

About

Carrick-a-Rede is one of Northern Ireland’s most loved attractions, cared for by the National Trust, a registered conservation charity founded to protect beautiful and special places for everyone, for ever.

Connected to the cliffs by a rope bridge across the Atlantic Ocean, Carrick-a-Rede Island (home to a single building - a fisherman's cottage) is the final destination. Suspended almost 100ft (30m) above sea level, the rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen 250 years ago.

The Visitor Experience - Crossing the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is an exhilarating experience, high above the water and open to the elements. Thousands of people come every year to blow out the cobwebs, see beautiful coastal scenery, and spot rare wildlife. Sway with the wind as you cross and take in the stunning views along the Causeway Coastal Route, best known as an outstanding area of natural beauty in Northern Ireland.

Crossing Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge takes only a few minutes, however you can expect your total visit time to be approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, taking in the breath-taking views from the coastal path, venturing across the 20-metre chasm, exploring the island of Carrick-a-Rede, grabbing a certificate on the way back, and finishing the day with a coffee and a sweet or savoury treat from the Tearoom.

If you only wish to walk the coastal path, there is a £10 parking charge (card payment only). This doesn't include rope-bridge crossing.

When to visit - Carrick-a-Rede is a popular destination. particularly during peak times, such as Bank Holidays and throughout the summer months. For the best rates, pre-book your Visitor Experience tickets in advance via the official Carrick-a-Rede website. Pre-booking helps the team to prepare for your arrival and helps to spread visitor numbers more evenly throughout the day, improving everyone's experience overall. National Trust Members and Local Pass Holders gain free access, however pre-booking is essential for everyone. 

Accessibility - A manual wheelchair is available for loan from within the Tearoom. This is available on a first-come, first-serve basis and can't be pre-booked. The first 0.5km of the coastal path is accessible, with an accessible telescope. After this viewing point, on route to the bridge, there are steeper slopes and two long sets of steps.

Carrick-a-Rede are proud to offer sensory bags to ensure everyone feels welcome and equal, whilst embracing the beauty of nature. These contain a selection of items designed specifically for visitors with sensory needs, including ear defenders, an emotion fan, various fidget items and a cuddly toy. These are available to loan from the Booking Hut, located in the main visitor car park.

Campervan Guidance - Campervans and Motorhomes are welcome to visit Carrick-a-Rede and can avail of a limited number of spaces, allocated on a first come, first served basis. No overnight parking is permitted.