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Carrickarede Island

51m Elevation
51m Prominence
I Country
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Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Route planning notes

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Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge Walk

This iconic route starts at the Carrick-a-Rede car park and follows a well-maintained coastal path leading directly to the famous Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. The walk offers stunning views of the Antrim coastline and Rathlin Island. The highlight is crossing the rope bridge to reach Carrickarede Island. Ensure to check bridge access availability before visiting.

2 km ~1 hours Easy

Ballintoy to Carrick-a-Rede Coastal Walk

This longer coastal route begins in the picturesque village of Ballintoy. The path takes you along rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rock formations, with plenty of opportunities to spot seabirds and other wildlife. You’ll finish at the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, where you can explore Carrickarede Island. It’s a scenic but slightly challenging route with some uneven terrain.

6.5 km ~2.5 hours Moderate

Whitepark Bay to Carrick-a-Rede

This breathtaking linear walk begins at Whitepark Bay, a beautiful sandy beach, and follows the coastline westwards to Carrick-a-Rede. The route passes through Ballintoy and offers stunning views of the North Atlantic, as well as historical landmarks. Upon reaching Carrick-a-Rede, you can cross the rope bridge to visit the island.

8 km ~3 hours Moderate

Carrick-a-Rede and Larrybane Quarry Loop

This circular walk starts at the Carrick-a-Rede car park and includes a visit to Larrybane Quarry, a dramatic limestone quarry with historical significance. The route then leads to the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and island, offering diverse scenery, including cliffs, wildflowers, and coastal views. A shorter but varied route for those seeking a mix of history and nature.

3.5 km ~1.5 hours Easy

Causeway Coast Way: Carrick-a-Rede Section

This segment of the famous Causeway Coast Way includes a walk to Carrick-a-Rede as part of a longer journey along Northern Ireland’s stunning coastline. Starting from either Ballycastle or Ballintoy, this route provides a mix of rugged paths, cliffside views, and cultural landmarks. It’s a longer and more demanding option, ideal for experienced walkers.

10 km ~4 hours Hard
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Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

SIB

Elevation

51m

167 ft

Prominence

51m

Coordinates

55.2406, -6.3312

D062450

OS Map

5

At the Summit

The island features rugged cliffs and is famous for its suspension bridge. There is no formal summit as such, but the highest point offers stunning panoramas.

Terrain & Geology

Rocky with grassy patches and steep cliffs.

Carrickarede Island is primarily composed of limestone and sandstone which were formed during the Carboniferous period. Its dramatic cliffs are the result of erosion from the Atlantic Ocean, presenting a fascinating tableau of natural history.

Views & Scenery

Picturesque views of the nearby coastline, Rathlin Island, and the Scottish Isles on a clear day.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

The name 'Carrickarede' translates from Gaelic as 'rock in the road', pointing to its historical significance as a navigational landmark.

Historical Significance

The island has a rich maritime history, famously linked with salmon fishing and offers a glimpse into Northern Ireland’s cultural heritage.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

Carrickarede Visitor Centre offers ample parking just a short walk from the starting point.

Public Transport

Bus services operate from Ballycastle to the Carrickarede area, making it accessible without a car.

Nearby Facilities

The Carrickarede Visitor Centre provides restrooms and a small café for refreshments, perfect for a post-hike snack.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Strong coastal winds, slippery paths near the cliffs, and wildlife such as nesting seabirds that may swoop if disturbed.

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Carrickarede Island?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Carrickarede Island through the maps

Are there other walkers around Carrickarede Island?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Carrickarede Island search or of course create your own walk for Carrickarede Island

Can I organise a walk to Carrickarede Island?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Carrickarede Island.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Carrickarede Island?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Carrickarede Island here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: D062450

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