Rathlin Island Adventure: Lighthouses, Puffins, and Scenic Views

The Journey to Rathlin Island: A Complete Travel Guide

Starting the Adventure in Ballycastle

Ballycastle, a picturesque town on Northern Ireland’s Antrim Coast, serves as the gateway to Rathlin Island. Located just 17 miles from the famous Giant’s Causeway, Ballycastle is known for its stunning coastline, vibrant local culture, and friendly atmosphere.

Before setting off to Rathlin, take some time to explore Ballycastle. You can grab a coffee and fresh pastry at Ursa Minor Bakehouse, a highly-rated artisan bakery, or enjoy traditional fish and chips from Morton's, a popular seafood spot near the harbor. If you're staying overnight, The Marine Hotel and Glass Island B&B offer comfortable accommodation with beautiful sea views.

Getting to Ballycastle

• By Car: Ballycastle is about a 1.5-hour drive from Belfast along the scenic Causeway Coastal Route.
• By Bus: Translink operates regular bus services from Belfast to Ballycastle (Routes 218 & 402).
• By Train: The nearest train station is in Coleraine, where you can connect to a bus to Ballycastle.

Taking the Ferry to Rathlin Island

Ferry Services

The Rathlin Island Ferry operates from Ballycastle Harbour and offers two ferry options:

1. Spirit of Rathlin (Slow Ferry) – This larger ferry carries both passengers and vehicles and takes about 40 minutes.
2. Rathlin Express (Fast Ferry) – A smaller, high-speed catamaran that reaches Rathlin in 25 minutes (passengers only).

Ferry Schedule & Booking:

• The ferry operates year-round, but service may be reduced in winter due to rough seas.
• Booking in advance is recommended, especially in summer. Tickets can be purchased online at rathlinballycastleferry.com or at the ferry terminal.

What to Expect on the Ferry Ride

On the ferry ride to Rathlin Island, you can expect breathtaking views of Fair Head Cliffs and the Rathlin Sound, where the rugged coastline meets the open sea. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as seals often pop up in the water, and seabirds such as gulls and gannets soar overhead. If the weather is clear, you’ll be treated to a stunning view of Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre in the distance, creating a magical moment as you cross the narrow stretch of sea that connects these two Celtic lands.

Arriving on Rathlin Island

The ferry docks at Church Bay, the main settlement on Rathlin. Here, you’ll find a visitor center, a café, and a pub. The island is small but hilly, so plan your transport accordingly.

Getting Around Rathlin Island

• Walking: The island is only 6 miles long, but many of its attractions require long walks.
• Bert’s Puffin Bus: A seasonal minibus that operates only when there are at least six passengers.
• Bike Rental: Available from McCuaig’s Bar for around £10 per day.
• Taxi Service: Call ahead to book a local taxi if you need transportation.

Top Things to See & Do on Rathlin Island

1. Visit the West Lighthouse & Seabird Centre

‍Standing dramatically on the island’s cliffs, the West Lighthouse is famous for its “upside-down” design, with the light positioned at the bottom. Nearby, the RSPB Seabird Centre offers a chance to see puffins, guillemots, and razorbills during nesting season.

• Distance: 4 miles from the harbor (hilly terrain).
• Getting there: Walk (~1.5 hours) or take Bert’s Puffin Bus (£5 round trip).
• Why visit? Home to the famous "upside-down lighthouse", where the light is positioned at the bottom of the structure.
• Wildlife Spotting: Between April and July, thousands of puffins, guillemots, and razorbills nest here.

2. Explore the East Lighthouse

This historic lighthouse, the oldest on Rathlin Island, offers stunning views across the sea to Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre. A scenic walk leads you to this striking landmark, making it the perfect spot for photography, reflection, and appreciating the island’s rugged beauty.

• Distance: 1.5 miles from Church Bay.
• Why visit? Offers stunning views of Scotland’s Mull of Kintyre.
• Historical Fact: This is the oldest lighthouse on Rathlin, built in 1856.

3. Walk to Rue Point (South of the Island)

A peaceful coastal walk leads to Rue Point, the island’s southernmost tip, where colonies of grey and common seals can often be seen basking on the rocks. The quiet, unspoiled setting makes this a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.

• Distance: 2.5 miles from the harbor.
• Why visit? Best place to see seals sunbathing on the rocks.

4. Discover Rathlin's History at the Boathouse Visitor Centre

Located near the harbor, this small museum showcases Rathlin’s rich history, from ancient settlers to shipwrecks and famous visitors like Robert the Bruce. Interactive displays and artifacts bring the island’s past to life, offering insight into its unique cultural heritage.

• Location: Near the ferry terminal.
• What’s inside? Exhibits on Rathlin’s history, shipwrecks, and Robert the Bruce’s cave (where the Scottish king supposedly hid in 1306).

5. Relax at McCuaig's Bar

As Rathlin’s only pub, McCuaig’s Bar is a welcoming spot to relax after a day of exploring. Whether enjoying a pint of Guinness or chatting with locals, this cozy establishment offers a true taste of island hospitality in a lively yet laid-back setting.

• The island’s only pub, located near the harbor.
• Serves Guinness, whiskey, and local seafood.
• A great place to chat with locals and hear stories about island life.

Wildlife on Rathlin Island

Rathlin Island is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a chance to see rare seabirds, playful seals, and even wild goats roaming its rugged landscape. With its protected habitats and thriving ecosystems, the island provides incredible opportunities for nature lovers and photographers alike. Keep an eye out for:

• Puffins (April – July) at the West Lighthouse.
• Seals basking on the southern beaches.
• Rare birds like fulmars, kittiwakes, and razorbills.
• Wild goats roaming the hills.

What to Eat on Rathlin Island

Options for dining are limited, so plan ahead.

• The Water Shed Café: Light meals, sandwiches, and coffee.
• McCuaig’s Bar: Serves hearty Irish pub food.
• Local Delicacy to Try: Dulse (a type of edible seaweed)—you might love it, or you might hate it.

Returning to Ballycastle

Check the ferry schedule in advance and arrive at the terminal 15 minutes before departure. On the return journey, you may get a different ferry, so confirm which pier you need.

Back in Ballycastle: More to Explore

If you have time before leaving Ballycastle, consider visiting:

• Kinbane Castle: A dramatic cliffside ruin just 10 minutes outside of town.
• Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge: A thrilling coastal walk about 15 minutes away by car.
• Dark Hedges: A famous Game of Thrones filming location, a 30-minute drive from Ballycastle.

Why Rathlin Island is Worth the Trip

Rathlin Island is Northern Ireland’s only inhabited offshore island, yet it feels like another world. Whether you're drawn by the dramatic landscapes, historic lighthouses, or abundant wildlife, Rathlin offers a peaceful escape from the mainland.

If you love remote destinations, outdoor adventures, and stunning coastal scenery, Rathlin Island should be high on your travel list.