UK :: Northern Ireland :: Carrick-A-Rede

Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge

The causeway coast between Larrybane and Carrick-A-Rede has been designated an area of special interest due to its geology, flora, and fauna. The most interesting feature of this coast to the average tourist is Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge.

Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge is a spectacular feat of engineering that will surely bring out the Indiana Jones in all of you. Be not fainthearted, all who cross survive!

Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge is set up every spring by a team of climbers, engineers and National Trust wardens to span the 20 metres between the cliffs and the island. The bridge, only 1 metre wide, hangs a scary 30 metres above the sea.

Carrick-A-Rede (Carraig-a-Rede) means rock on the road. The rock refers to the island and the road is the migratory route of Irish salmon. That is the more practical reason for its existence. Fishermen have maintained a rope bridge there since the mid-1600’s in order to catch the salmon.

One word of warning (that you should not put you off a visit) is that it is a 20 minute walk from the car park over rough ground. So, allow plenty of time and wear strong footwear. It is worth the effort!

Also remember to keep away from the cliffs and keep your dogs (and children) on the leash!

Carrick-A-Rede rope bridge is 8 Km away from Ballycastle in Antrim, Northern Ireland.

See also ntni.org.uk :: Carrick_A-Rede photos