Rathlin Island

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Rathlin Island is Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island, located just off the coast near Ballycastle. Known for its dramatic cliffs, seabird colonies, and quiet rural atmosphere, the island offers a unique escape from the mainland with strong connections to nature and local heritage.

What to See & Do

  • 🐧 Visit the 🧗 **West Light Seabird Centre** to see thousands of puffins (seasonal) and nesting birds 🦅
  • 🏠 Explore the **island village** and the Boathouse Visitor Centre to learn about local history and legends ⚓
  • 🚶 Walk the **coastal trails** to Rue Point or the East Lighthouse for dramatic sea views 🌊
  • 🦦 Spot **seals** basking on the rocks near the harbour and keep an eye out for rare golden hares 🐇

How to Get There

  • 🚢 By Ferry: Regular **passenger and vehicle ferries** depart from ⚓ **Ballycastle Harbour** 🏁
  • 🎫 Booking: Tickets are essential; book via the ⛴️ **Rathlin Ferry** website (approx. 25-40 min crossing) 🛤️
  • 🚗 On Island: **No private vehicles** are permitted for visitors; the island is best explored on foot or by bike 🚲
  • 🚌 Transport: A seasonal **Puffin Bus** 🚍 runs between the harbour and the West Light Seabird Centre 🚏

Travel Tips

  • 🎟️ **Advance Booking:** Ferry spaces fill up fast in summer; 📅 **book weeks in advance** for peak weekends 🚢
  • 🌦️ **Island Weather:** It is significantly 🌬️ **windier and cooler** than the mainland; bring waterproofs and layers 🧥
  • 🐧 **Puffin Season:** To see the puffins, visit between **late April and July** 🗓️
  • ⏳ **Time Management:** Allow at least 🕒 **5 to 6 hours** on the island to see the main sites without rushing 🏁

Suggested Itinerary

  • 🕣 08:30 AM – Take the early **ferry from Ballycastle** to catch the best wildlife activity 🚢
  • 🕙 10:00 AM – Take the Puffin Bus or walk to the **West Light Seabird Centre** and cliffs 🦅
  • 🕐 01:00 PM – Return to the village for **lunch** at *McCuaig’s Bar* or a picnic by the harbour 🍴
  • 🕓 04:00 PM – Browse the local **craft shop** before boarding the return ferry to the mainland ⚓

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

Access depends on ferry schedule

Entry Fee:

Island access free; ferry ticket required

Best Time to Visit:

Late spring to summer for wildlife

Location

📌Rathlin Island, County Antrim, Northern Ireland

👉 View on Google Maps

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