Discover the Breathtaking Carrick-a-Rede Bridge
Experience the thrill of crossing Carrick-a-Rede Bridge, a stunning coastal attraction in Northern Ireland with breathtaking views and rich history.
Nestled on the stunning Antrim coast, Carrick-a-Rede Bridge offers an exhilarating walk across a rope bridge suspended high above the sea, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. This iconic tourist attraction is not only a testament to engineering but also a gateway to breathtaking views and a rich history, making it a must-visit for every traveler in Northern Ireland.
A brief summary to National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede
- Ballycastle, Ballintoy, Antrim, GB
- +442820769839
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
- Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the bridge can be uneven and slippery, especially in wet conditions.
- Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views, but be mindful of high winds when crossing the bridge.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as high winds can lead to temporary closures of the bridge.
- Consider visiting the nearby Ballintoy Harbour for picturesque scenery and photo opportunities.
Getting There
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Car
From Giant's Causeway, exit the parking area and head south on the A2 road. Continue for approximately 6 miles (10 km) until you reach the village of Ballintoy. Turn left onto the B66 and follow the signs for Carrick-a-Rede. The parking area for National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede will be on your left. Note that there is a parking fee, so be prepared to pay for parking.
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Public Transportation
From Giant's Causeway, walk to the nearest bus stop and take the Translink bus 172 towards Ballycastle. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Get off at the Ballintoy stop. From there, it is a short 10-minute walk to the entrance of Carrick-a-Rede. Be aware that bus schedules may vary, so check the latest timetable in advance. There is no additional fee for entry to the bus, but the Carrick-a-Rede site itself has an admission fee.
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Walking
If you enjoy hiking, you can walk from Giant's Causeway to Carrick-a-Rede. The distance is about 4 miles (6.4 km) and will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Follow the coastal path heading south towards Ballintoy. The scenery is stunning, and you will encounter beautiful views along the way. Ensure you have appropriate footwear and check the weather conditions before you set off.
Discover more about National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whitepark Bay viewpoint
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Portaneevy Car Park & Viewpoint
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Black and White Bay
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Essential places to dine
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The Nook
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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The Woodpile Provisions
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