The world is home to countless bridges, many of which are rickety or suspended above vast expanses that might leave those scared of heights with shaking knees. However, there is one bridge in the UK that has been listed among the “scariest” globally with some tourists rumoured to turn back before even stepping foot upon it.
Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is located in Northern Ireland and, as the name suggests, is a rope bridge that connects two bridges separated by the mighty Atlantic Ocean.
Suspended almost 100ft (approximately 30m) above sea level, the rope bridge was first erected by salmon fishermen over 250 years ago. Now, it is owned and cared for by the National Trust, who have conserved the bridge over the years. The bridge is open to the public to cross by foot, leading them to Carrick-a-Rede Island which is home to a single fisherman’s cottage.
The bridge made it to a list of top 18 “scariest bridges in the world” by Travel + Leisure, which noted: “Many visitors who walk across simply can’t handle the return and have to go back by boat.”
Perhaps looking down at the jagged cliff face and roaring waves 100ft below gives people wobbly legs. Luckily, the bridge is actually very safe.
Originally, when the bridge was only used by fishermen heading across to the island to catch salmon, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge had just one handrail to hold on to.
Luckily, since the National Trust took over, it has been reinforced with two handrails for extra safety and it is completely safe to cross.
You might feel a little bit of a shake when passing over the bridge – at least enough to thrill you – but you’re in safe hands.
Occasionally, the National Trust will close the bridge when the weather may interfere with a safe crossing.
Crossing the bridge does take some nerve, but visitors will be rewarded by the experience. The bridge offers stunning views when crossing it, and many visitors also enjoy the vistas on offer from the hike up there.
As Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge is owned by National Trust, you will need to book a slot. You can do so by purchasing a ticket via the National Trust website here.
