The wobbly bridge of Carrick-a-Rede

If you are looking for a bit of thrill then you could do worse than go to Northern Ireland and walk across the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. It is one of the most interesting sites to see in Northern Ireland, a land that is full of incredible sights to see. This is one of the most intriguing spectacles. It’s a rope bridge that has been put up for centuries that allows the mainland to reach a small island just off the main shore. This was put up in place so that the fisherman could access it in the summer and open up new areas without having to use a boat, which is dangerous at the best of times around the region. The Irish Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean and the storms and the churning waters are worrying to navigate.

Why you’ll want warm layers on the bridge

This is why you need to have a few Aran Sweaters in your arsenal to keep warm and also keep out the wet sea spray that can get quite high and forceful on this part of the coast. The Aran Sweaters are perfect as they use a special wool that is actually able to resist water and keep the wearer dry. It was first used by the Fisherman of Aran and was handmade by their wives and mothers. You can get one from Shamrock Gift.

Is the bridge safe to cross?

You might want to contact your wife and or Mother before you go across the bridge. It is perfectly safe but the gap is imposing and the drop is very far. It’s fine though and well worth the journey.

Summary

The Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge in Northern Ireland is one of the country’s most thrilling sights, originally built so fishermen could reach a small island without a dangerous boat crossing. Because the Irish Sea meets the Atlantic Ocean here, sea spray can be high and forceful, making a warm, water-resistant Aran sweater a useful thing to pack. The crossing is perfectly safe, though the gap and drop can feel imposing to nervous visitors.

Questions this article raises

• How long has the Carrick-a-Rede bridge been in place?
• Is the bridge suitable for visitors afraid of heights?
• What’s the best time of year to visit the bridge?