Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was first strung across this 20-metre chasm by salmon fishermen in 1755, and the name, from the Gaelic for 'the rock in the road', describes the island that blocked migrating salmon on their way home. The bridge hangs almost 30 metres above the Atlantic, linking the Antrim mainland to a rocky island with its 400-year-old fisherman's cottage, and the kilometre of clifftop path from the car park passes the old Larry Bane quarry with views to Rathlin Island, nesting guillemots and razorbills and sometimes basking sharks offshore. Reviewers rate the pies and cakes in the Weighbridge Tea Room and say the scenery rewards the walk even if nerves stop you crossing. Tips from visitors: a pre-booked crossing slot is essential and the bridge shuts in high winds; the stepped path turns slippery in rain and takes about an hour there and back; the only toilets are at the car park; and dogs on leads may walk the path but not cross.