Carrick-a-Rede coastal walk
Trace the coastline over windswept grasslands and winding rocky paths to Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. For those brave enough to cross the bridge, there's a bird’s-eye view of the clear green water and ancient caverns far below – if you dare to look down.
Near to
Carrick-a-RedeStart point
Larrybane Quarry car park, Carrick-a-Rede, BT54 6LSTrail information
*Mix of grass and gravel paths, with some steep ascents and descents. For further details, please see Terrain section.
**This route is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. For further details, please see Access section.
***Dogs welcome on a lead onsite, but not on the bridge, the last section of the walk. For more details, please see Facilities section.
Plan your walk
This route starts at the Larrybane overspill car park (1 on the map), but you can also park at Ballintoy Harbour or on Harbour Road and take the track (A on the map) to the coast path (B), which brings you to Carrick-a-Rede visitor reception (2). Please be aware of unfenced cliff edges, high winds and steep slopes. To cross the bridge, you will need to buy tickets and check opening times – see the Carrick-a-Rede homepage.
Total stages: 6
Total stages: 6
Start point
Larrybane Quarry car park, Carrick-a-Rede, BT54 6LS
Stage 1
From the Larrybane Quarry car park, walk back along the tarmac road to the main Carrick-a-Rede car and coach park.
Stage 2
Go through the car park, with its reception hut, disused limekiln and views back to Larrybane. Please note you will need to pre-book your tickets to cross the bridge, but you can continue along the coast path up to Step 4 without charge. On your left is the wild Atlantic Ocean, and to the right, fields of coastal farmland.
Stage 3
At this point, you'll come to the top of many steps cut into the steep cliff-side. There are a couple of benches to rest along this section of the route – it can be challenging, depending on your ability. Once you have made your way down all of the steps, you will see a gate within an archway. Show your ticket to go through the gate, leading to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.
Stage 4
Descend the metal staircase and take your first tentative teps across this unique bridge. (Many people are surprised to learn that it sways very slightly.) Views of the stunning coastline are to each side and straight ahead as you step off the bridge and on to Carrick-a-Rede Island – the 'rock in the road' where fishermen came to catch migrating salmon.
Stage 5
From the island, take time to admire the views and do a spot of birdwatching. The most important feature of the island is the fisherman's cottage, which is open on select weekends throughout the year.
The fisherman's cottage on the island at Carrick-a-Rede, County Antrim | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor Stage 6
Exit the bridge and follow the looping trail leading to the bottom of the steps you descended earlier. You can now follow the familiar track back to the car park.
Walking the coast paths at Carrick-a-Rede, County Antrim | © National Trust Images/Annapurna Mellor End point
Larrybane Quarry car park, Carrick-a-Rede, BT54 6LS
Trail map
Map of the Carrick-a-Rede coastal walk, County Antrim | © Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland
More near here
Giant's Causeway Red Trail
With many unique viewing points along the way, this bracing clifftop trail boasts spectacular vistas of the world-famous Causeway Coast that are off the beaten track.
Bishop's Gate walking trail
Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Downhill Demesne's sheltered gardens and clifftops, taking in the Bishop's Gate Arboretum , alongside the ruins of Downhill House and the striking Mussenden Temple.
Giant's Causeway Blue Trail
Discover rock formations steeped in Irish legends on the Blue Trail, a direct route of under a mile, leading directly to the world-famous stones of the Giant's Causeway.
Get in touch
119a Whitepark Road, Ballintoy, County Antrim, BT54 6LS
Our partners
We’ve partnered with Cotswold Outdoor to help everyone make the most of their time outdoors in the places we care for.
You might also be interested in
Walking
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.
Walking in Northern Ireland
Step into Summer in the Legendary Landscapes of Northern Ireland. From the golden dunes of Portstewart Strand to the peaceful paths of Florence Court, explore walking trails that suit all abilities. Whether you're after a short stroll or a scenic ramble, summer is the perfect time to get outside and discover somewhere new.
Cotswold Outdoor: our exclusive walking partner
Learn about the National Trust’s ongoing partnership with Cotswold Outdoor. Find out how they help us care for precious places and the exclusive discount available for National Trust supporters.
Follow the Countryside Code
Help to look after National Trust places by observing a few simple guidelines during your visit and following the Countryside Code.
Staying safe at National Trust places
The special places in National Trust care sometimes come with a few risks for visitors, be it coastline or countryside. Find out how to keep safe throughout your visits.
Things to see and do at Carrick-a-Rede
This autumn take on the challenge of the famous 200-year old rope bridge, spot soaring seabirds and basking sharks.
Visiting Carrick-a-Rede with your dog
Discover where you can take your dog along the coastal route to this two pawprint-rated place, what you need to be aware of and what facilities are available for them.