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About
Amidst the rugged landscape of this beautiful island let your mind wander and discover a tranquillity and beauty that is so unexpected.
The ferry to Rathlin Island travels just six miles across the Sea of Moyle. This island is six miles long, one mile wide, "L" shaped and home to a slowly increasing population of around 140 people.
A short walk from the harbour is the Boathouse Visitor Centre(Seasonal) where visitors can discover some of the exciting history, learn about present day island life and see some artefacts from shipwrecks around the island. Enjoy many of the walks the Island has to offer including along the shore to Mill Bay where you may see some of the resident seals basking or at play. Cycle hire is another way to enjoy the island or take a bus trip.
From April to July is puffin season so don't miss the opportunity to see them along with lots of other sea birds. The re-furbished seabird centre is open to the public from 29 May with the added bonus of being able to explore a real working lighthouse which is now part of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland tour.
Many tales of myth and mystery surround Rathlin; perhaps the most famous tells of Robert the Bruce. In 1306, the Scottish King took refuge on Rathlin where he watched a spider persevering again and again to bridge a gap with its web. Eventually it succeeded. Taking heart from the spider's efforts, he returned to Scotland and eventually regained his crown.
The island has a range of accommodation to suit different needs, a pub, restaurant, community shop and gift shop, offering Rathlin produced crafts. ‘Breakwater Studio’ features the work of local artist Yvonne Braithwaite, Islander Kelp and Northcoast Nature Photography Workshops.
The Rathlin Development & Community Association (RDCA) is the voluntary body that represents the Rathlin community and manages an informative website with detailed information about services and activities on the island www.rathlincommunity.org
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Facilities
Attraction Facilities
- Gift Shop
- Open Mondays
- Open Sundays
Catering
- Picnic Area
- Tea-room/Cafe onsite
Establishment Features
- Toilets
Provider Preferences
- Dogs accepted by arrangement
Travel & Trade
- Family Discount
Guide Prices
For Ferry prices please visit https://www.rathlin-ferry.com/
Explore More
RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre, Rathlin IslandJust six miles off County Antrim's north coast with must see views of Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony and a chance to explore Rathlin's unique 'upside down' lighthouse part of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland Trail.
Breakwater Studio Rathlin, Rathlin IslandBreakwater Studio on Rathlin Island is the Studio and Home of Yvonne Braithwaite. She is generally in residence at the Studio all year round and would be pleased to welcome you should you make a visit to Rathlin.
Rathlin Ferry, BallycastleBallycastle-Rathlin Island Sailings daily, weather permitting. 45 mins. Groups and wheelchair users by request. Booking advised.
