Thrill seekers travel from all over the world to take an adrenaline-fueled stroll across the Carrick-a-Rede bridge. The famed rope bridge connects the mainland in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, with a tiny island off the coast. Swaying 100 feet above the Atlantic Ocean, this unique bridge is as historic as it is unmissable.

Ready to brave the sea winds and walk across the rope bridge that dangles above the crashing waves? Here’s your complete guide to experiencing Carrick-a-Rede.

1. History

Salmon once flourished in the cold Atlantic waters around Carrick-a-Rede island, and a fishery was built on the little outcropping. To reach the island and its lone cottage, salmon fishermen first constructed a slender rope bridge on the Antrim coastline 350 years ago. The narrow bridge creates spectacular scenery since just a few ropes span the 66-foot gap between Carrick-a-Rede and the mainland.

Carrick-a-Rede (pronounced carrick-a-reedy) translates to something like “the rock in the road.” It was the rocky island where fishermen traditionally cast their nets to catch migrating salmon.

While similar rope bridges have existed at this location for centuries, the current structure was rebuilt in 2000 and has been rigorously tested for safety.

Completely open to the elements, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is now maintained by Northern Ireland’s National Trust, a conservation charity dedicated to preserving natural and historical sites.

2. What to See

The Antrim coastline is one of the most striking coastal areas in Ireland. Set against this rugged oceanfront scenery, the rope bridge at Carrick-a-Rede Island is the main attraction. Most visitors come to test their bravery by walking across the swaying suspension bridge.

Once on Carrick-a-Rede Island, visitors can stroll along the windswept pathways and observe the single fishermen’s cottage. Although sometimes closed to visitors, the cottage’s white walls against the windswept grass create a postcard-perfect Irish scene. Outside the cottage, a recreation of the crane that would have hoisted fishing boats provides another glimpse into the island’s fishing history.

On clear days, there are views out toward Scotland’s Rathlin Island. However, aside from incredible panoramas, winding walkways, and the cottage, wildlife spotting remains a popular activity on Carrick-a-Rede, where dolphins and porpoises may often be seen offshore.

Back on the mainland, several coastal paths are free to walk along. After your adventure, the National Trust operates a tea room that serves hot drinks and sandwiches.

While there is a reception hut to confirm your ticket, there is no comprehensive visitor center or shelter in the area.

3. Location and How to Visit

The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is located near the village of Ballycastle, around 9 miles (or a 20-minute drive) east of the Giant’s Causeway. The main parking area can be found at 119a White Park Road, outside the village of Ballintoy.

For safety reasons and crowd management, visitors must now purchase timed tickets to cross the famous rope bridge. Tickets can be pre-booked online, and the reference number must be presented at the ticket office onsite.

Tickets grant access to walk over the bridge to the island within a specific one-hour time slot, with no time limit for how long visitors can stay on the island. The bridge is over half a mile from the parking lot, so be sure to plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to avoid missing your scheduled crossing time.

The bridge is closed from December 24-26 each year and occasionally for a few days in November for maintenance, with updates available on the official site.

An adult ticket to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge costs £9 (approximately $11) and must be arranged in advance. However, the coastal walkways on the mainland are entirely free to visit and do not require prior reservations.

4. What Else to Do Nearby

Carrick-a-Rede is a short drive (20 minutes by car) from the Giant’s Causeway. This incredible natural formation comprised of 40,000 stone columns is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most renowned places in Ireland.

Beyond this natural wonder, just on the other side of the village of Bushmills, are the stunning ruins of Dunluce Castle. Dramatically set on the edge of a cliff, Dunluce has been featured in movies, including Game of Thrones, and exemplifies the wild beauty of the Irish landscape.

Finally, the nearby town of Bushmills is famous for its whiskey and is home to the Old Bushmills Distillery, which has been in operation since 1784, named after the River Bush that flows nearby.