Carrick-a-Rede: A Thrilling Coastal Adventure
Explore the breathtaking Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and experience the stunning coastal views of Northern Ireland's rugged landscape.
Nestled in the stunning coastline of Northern Ireland, Carrick-a-Rede is an iconic rope bridge that connects the mainland to the tiny island of Carrickarede. This thrilling experience offers breathtaking views and a unique opportunity to explore the rich natural beauty of the area, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler.
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 late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Wear sturdy footwear and dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly along the coast.
- Keep an eye on the weather forecast; strong winds can lead to temporary bridge closures.
- Take your time to explore the surrounding walking trails for additional stunning views and wildlife sightings.
- Consider visiting during weekdays to have a quieter experience compared to weekends.
Getting There
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Car
From Giant's Causeway, head southwest on the A2 road towards Ballycastle. Continue on the A2 for approximately 12 miles (about 20 minutes). You will pass through the scenic coastal town of Ballintoy. Look for signs for Carrick-a-Rede on your left. There is a parking area available, but note that parking fees may apply.
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Public Transportation
Take the bus from Giant's Causeway to Ballycastle. You can catch the bus (Service 172) at the Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre. The journey takes about 30 minutes. Alight at the Ballycastle bus station, then transfer to Service 252 toward Ballintoy. Get off at the Carrick-a-Rede stop. Be aware that bus schedules may vary, so check the local timetable in advance.
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Walking
If you prefer a more adventurous route, you can walk from the Giant's Causeway to Carrick-a-Rede. This is a long trek of about 6 miles (approximately 2 hours) along the scenic coastal path. Follow the path west, enjoying views of the sea and cliffs. Keep an eye out for signs directing you to Carrick-a-Rede as you approach Ballintoy.
Discover more about National Trust - Carrick-a-Rede
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Whitepark Bay viewpoint
3.9 km
Discover the stunning coastal views and serene landscapes at Whitepark Bay Viewpoint in Ballycastle, Northern Ireland – a perfect spot for nature lovers.
Giant's Causeway Viewpoint
11.3 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Northern Ireland at the Giant's Causeway Viewpoint, where nature and legend meet in a breathtaking coastal landscape.
Giants Causeway Carpark
11.3 km
Explore the legendary Giants Causeway, a breathtaking natural wonder with unique basalt columns and stunning coastal views.
Giant's Causeway
11.4 km
Explore Giant's Causeway, a breathtaking natural reserve in Northern Ireland, famous for its unique basalt columns, rich history, and stunning coastal views.
Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail
11.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Giant's Causeway - Blue Trail, where nature meets legend along Northern Ireland's stunning coastline.
National Trust - Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre
11.7 km
Experience the stunning beauty and rich history at the Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre, a gateway to Northern Ireland's iconic natural wonder.
Bay of the Cow
11.8 km
Experience the stunning natural beauty and rich folklore of the Bay of the Cow, a hidden gem near the Giant's Causeway in Northern Ireland.
Giant's Causeway & Bushmills Railway
11.8 km
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The Dark Hedges
12.1 km
Explore the Dark Hedges, an iconic beech tree avenue in Northern Ireland, offering breathtaking views and a touch of cinematic magic.
Portcoon Jetty
12.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Portcoon Jetty, a scenic point in Northern Ireland, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Dunluce Castle
16.0 km
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National Trust Barmouth Bird Hide
28.4 km
Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of nature at Barmouth Bird Hide, a premier birdwatching and nature reserve in Northern Ireland.
National Trust - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
31.5 km
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Merrick Stone
35.8 km
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American Monument
39.1 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and poignant history of the American Monument at Mull of Oa, a must-visit destination on the Isle of Islay.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rope bridge quarry (GOT)
0.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and thrilling adventures at the iconic Rope Bridge Quarry in Ballycastle, a must-visit tourist attraction.
Beach and caves
0.1 km
Discover the stunning beaches and captivating caves of Ballycastle, a top hiking destination in Northern Ireland offering breathtaking views and natural beauty.
Portaneevy Car Park & Viewpoint
0.7 km
Discover breathtaking coastal views at Portaneevy Car Park & Viewpoint in Ballycastle, a scenic spot perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Causeway Coastal Route
1.7 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage along the iconic Causeway Coastal Route in Northern Ireland.
Ballintoy boat tours
1.7 km
Experience the stunning beauty of Northern Ireland's coastline with unforgettable boat tours in Ballintoy, showcasing rugged cliffs and vibrant marine life.
The Element Rock
1.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Element Rock, a stunning natural attraction along Northern Ireland's picturesque coastline, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Black and White Bay
2.2 km
Explore the breathtaking contrasts of Black and White Bay, a serene coastal gem in Ballycastle, Northern Ireland, ideal for relaxation and natural beauty.
Ballintoy Harbour
2.4 km
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Ballintoy point
2.4 km
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Kinbane Castle
2.8 km
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The Skull Rock
3.0 km
Explore the captivating Skull Rock, a stunning natural formation in Ballycastle, Northern Ireland, surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery.
The Elephant Rock
3.1 km
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Whitepark Bay Beach
4.6 km
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Dunseverick coastal walk
4.8 km
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National Trust - White Park Bay
4.9 km
Experience the unspoiled beauty of White Park Bay, a serene coastal haven with stunning beaches, rich wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes in Northern Ireland.
Essential places to dine
Carrick-A-Rede Bar and Restaurant
1.6 km
Experience the best of Northern Irish cuisine at Carrick-A-Rede Bar and Restaurant—where delicious food meets stunning coastal views.
The Fullerton Arms
1.7 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at The Fullerton Arms in Ballintoy - where comfort meets breathtaking coastal views.
Roark's Kitchen
2.4 km
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Bothy White Park Bay
5.6 km
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The Cellar
6.8 km
Experience the best of local seafood at The Cellar in Ballycastle - where fresh meets flavor in a charming seaside setting.
Causeway Tavern B & B
8.6 km
Discover comfort and charm at Causeway Tavern B & B in Dunseverick - your perfect base for exploring Northern Ireland's natural wonders.
Hungry Giant Causeway
11.6 km
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Finn McCool's Giants Causeway Hostel
11.6 km
Discover the welcoming embrace of Finn McCool's Hostel near Giants Causeway - your gateway to adventure in Northern Ireland.
The Nook
11.7 km
Discover The Nook in Bushmills - where fresh seafood meets stunning coastal views for an unforgettable dining experience.
National trust cafe
11.7 km
Experience local flavors at the National Trust Cafe while enjoying breathtaking views near Giant's Causeway.
The Causeway Hotel
11.8 km
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Market Square
12.6 km
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The Bushmills Inn Hotel
12.7 km
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The Bushmills Inn Restaurant and Bar
12.7 km
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The Bush House Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The wee shop
1.6 km
Experience local charm at The Wee Shop in Ballycastle, your go-to convenience store for essentials and unique souvenirs in Northern Ireland.
North Coast Coffee
1.7 km
Experience the warmth of North Coast Coffee in Ballycastle, a perfect blend of cozy atmosphere and rich, flavorful brews amidst stunning Northern Ireland landscapes.
The Woodpile Provisions
5.4 km
Explore unique handmade home goods at The Woodpile Provisions in Ballycastle, where local craftsmanship meets cozy charm for the perfect souvenir.
Someplace in Time
6.2 km
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The Original Factory Shop (Ballycastle)
6.5 km
Experience the best in shopping at The Original Factory Shop in Ballycastle, where quality meets affordability for every traveler.
Cobwebs
6.7 km
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Home Made Beautiful
6.8 km
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That Witch
6.9 km
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Express Snack Hub & Hot Drinks
11.7 km
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Old Bushmills Distillery Gift Shop
12.6 km
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CentraBushmills
12.7 km
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Lilly's
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Co-op Food - Bushmills
12.7 km
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Taylor Yates
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Linen Lane
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Coast Inn
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ANZAC BAR, RESTAURANT & OFF SALES
6.6 km
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Glenshesk Bar
6.7 km
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Nellie Rua's, Ballycastle
6.7 km
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House of McDonnell
6.7 km
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The Boyd Arms
6.7 km
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O'Connor's Bar
6.8 km
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The Diamond Bar
6.8 km
Experience authentic Irish pub culture at The Diamond Bar in Ballycastle, offering a warm atmosphere and a wide selection of local beverages.
Anglers Arms
6.9 km
Experience the warm Irish hospitality at Anglers Arms Pub in Ballycastle, offering delicious food and a vibrant atmosphere to enjoy with friends.
Harbour Bar
7.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and local charm at Harbour Bar, Ballycastle's premier destination for drinks and entertainment.
McBrides Bar
8.6 km
Experience traditional Irish hospitality at McBrides Bar in Bushmills, a cozy pub with local brews and a welcoming atmosphere.
Hunters Bar
10.3 km
Experience the charm of Ballyvoy at Hunters Bar, where local flavors meet warm hospitality in a cozy atmosphere.
McCuaig's Bar
10.6 km
Discover the heart of Rathlin Island at McCuaig's Bar, where traditional Irish hospitality meets stunning coastal views and vibrant live music.
The Armada Inn
12.0 km
Discover the charm of The Armada Inn, a cozy pub in Armoy offering authentic Irish cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere for all travelers.
The Scotch House Bar
12.7 km
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