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Island · Ballycastle, Northern Ireland
Rathlin Island
Inhabited island about 10 km off the coast of Ballycastle, with cliffs where thousands of seabirds breed. At the West Light, a centre run by the RSPB allows close views of the colonies.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Rathlin Island
Rathlin is the only inhabited island off the coast of Northern Ireland, about 10 km from Ballycastle, in the sea between Ireland and Scotland. It is L-shaped, has few residents and a small settlement at Church Bay, where the boats land.
The island’s main attraction is its seabirds. At the west end of the island, the West Light was built with its lantern low in the tower, and beside it operates the West Light Seabird Centre, run by the RSPB, the UK bird conservation organisation. From cliff platforms you can see colonies of cormorants, kittiwakes, razorbills and, from spring to mid-summer, puffins.
The island has waymarked trails along the coast and inland, with seals that often rest on the rocks near the harbour. Local history includes the legend that Robert the Bruce, king of Scotland, hid in a cave on the island in the 14th century, and the wireless communication tests carried out there in the late 19th century.
The seabird centre is about 7 km from the harbour; there are private minibuses, hire bicycles and the option to walk.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day, including the crossing, the seabird centre and a walk.
Best time
From spring until the end of summer, when the seabird centre usually opens. Puffins are typically at the colonies from April to July. Crossings can be cancelled in rough seas.
How to get there
By boats that depart from Ballycastle harbour. There is a fast passenger-only vessel with about a 25-minute crossing, and a larger boat of roughly 40 minutes. Book ahead; cars are not permitted on day trips; stays of six nights or more and Blue Badge holders have exceptions, with advance booking.
Tip
Bring windproof outerwear and binoculars. The path from the centre to the viewing platforms includes many steps.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Rathlin Island
When to see puffins on Rathlin?
They are usually at the colonies from April to July. The seabird centre at the West Lighthouse opens in season, from Easter to the end of summer; check the dates.
How long is the crossing to Rathlin?
About 25 minutes on the fast passenger boat and about 40 minutes on the larger ferry from Ballycastle harbour.
Can you take a car to Rathlin?
Cars are not allowed on day trips. There are exceptions for stays of six nights or more and for Blue Badge holders, with prior booking. For getting around there are private minibuses, hire bicycles and walking trails.
How long to stay on Rathlin?
A full day allows you to visit the seabird centre and do a walk. If you want to see the island at leisure, you can stay overnight.