Dreaming of an escape to a place where seabirds soar and the pace of life slows down? Look no further than Rathlin Island, a hidden gem just a short ferry ride from the Causeway Coastal Route. As the only inhabited offshore island of Northern Ireland, with a population of 160, this is a unique destination for all visitors. The island is home to one of the largest seabird colonies in the UK and beautiful rolling rugged coastlines. It's important to plan ahead to ensure you soak up every bit of its unique charm. This itinerary will cover Rathlin's iconic attractions with opportunities to take in the natural beauty of its scaling landscape, so that you can make the most of your 36 hours on this beloved island.
Your Rathlin adventure begins with a crucial first step: securing your passage from Ballycastle Harbour. Advance booking is mandatory, particularly during the summer months. If you are bringing luggage, you must book the Spirit of Rathlin ferry and make sure to wrap up warm so you can enjoy the panoramic views from the top deck. We recommend the 10am sailing; however, with hourly departures available, the ferry service readily accommodates all itineraries. The ferry takes between 40 minutes each way. Pro-tip: Sit closer to the centre of the boat to avoid getting splashed.
Upon disembarking, you see the Manor House hotel, your new home from home. Drop off your bags and freshen up.There is a bus that leaves from the harbour to the RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre at every ferry arrival time which gives you just enough time to relax and enjoy a hot chocolate. The bus to the puffins costs £6 return. Remember to have cash on hand, as this is the sole payment method accepted by the driver. The views on this route could have jumped straight out of a postcard, they are truly breathtaking. A short audio guide will give you an introduction into the history of island life on Rathlin.
Purchase your ticket in the visitor centre and descend nearly 100 steps to see the iconic Rathlin puffins. The walk down to the viewing platform will take your breath away once more (if you have any left). This is where craggy cliffs meet crashing waves. Knowledgeable tour guides will provide you with binoculars to help locate these interesting seabirds (Remember, the puffins have orange feet.). Before you leave, Rathlin West, known as Ireland’s only “upside down” lighthouse, provides visitors with vital insights into the life gone by. And a peek in the visitor centre's gift shop will supply many puffin-themed souvenirs for you to remember your day.
Hop back on the bus to the harbour. Here, you can tuck in to a traditional pub lunch at McCuaig’s Bar. Indulge in classic fare such as fresh battered cod, chicken wings, beef burgers and more. If the weather is nice, take a seat outside and soak in the sun with views of the bay.
With your appetite satisfied, this is a great time to explore the seafront, the heart of the community here on Rathlin. The Boathouse Visitor Centre and Museum provide the best local knowledge and advice for what to do and how to get there. The quaint basement museum contains a wealth of artefacts, photographs and information about Rathlin and the resident staff are on hand to answer your questions. A visit to Breakwater Studio is also highly recommended. This shop has a fabulous collection of art, ceramics, and unique cards and gifts, all lovingly inspired by the island's rugged landscapes and the captivating wildlife that calls it home. There are a few other shops for you to explore and browse at your leisure.
Weather permitting, there are boat tours leaving for the harbour to take in the sights via sea. Step aboard a private boat tour with Rathlin Boat Adventures. Experience the puffins from a perspective unlike any other. For a very reasonable £20 per person, glide along the island's dramatic coastline, getting up close (while maintaining a respectful distance, of course!) to the seabirds in their natural habitat. From the water, you'll have unparalleled views of the puffins nesting on the cliffs, diving for fish, and waddling along the grassy slopes. This is your chance to truly connect with Rathlin's iconic wildlife from a captivating vantage point. Your tour guides have a wealth of knowledge and will share local insights into the wildlife and traditions of the island. You can also circumnavigate the island for £30. Call in advance to check availability and sailing conditions.
A dinner be-fitting of a lord awaits at the Manor House restaurant, with dishes showcasing the finest local ingredients: pan seared seabass with sautéed lyonnaise potatoes, dry aged sirloin steak with roasted half tomato, flat mushroom, onion rings and blue cheese sauce. Mouth-watering! Tuck in and watch the last ferry of the day leave for the mainland. The island is yours for the evening. Following such indulgence, a short journey over the road leads you back to the welcoming embrace of McCuaig's Bar. Enjoy a pint of local brew or a Guinness as you get to know the locals.
For a morning spent on dry land, there are seven diverse walking trails around the island catering to all ages and abilities. A walk to the northside of the island via the RSPB Craigmacagan walking trail is a 1.7 miles/2.8 km figure of eight from the start of the trail. Along the way, you'll find benches with beautiful views and a couple of picnic benches, perfect for pausing to admire the scenery with a snack. At some points on this walk you can see both the north and south shores.
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After lunch, the island is yours to explore at your leisure. Pop back in for another nosy around the shops, check out another of the wonderful walking trails or sit down and watch the boats come and go, with a cuppa in hand. It's up to you. We know you won't want to leave but don't miss your ferry!
Hopefully you'll have seen the best of Rathlin – the puffins, the views, the island's unique hospitality. But this is just the beginning! With its walking trails, boat trips, and the lure of longer stays, Rathlin holds even more in store. Start planning your return now to delve deeper and uncover all it has to offer. Check out our travel tips for Rathlin and get booking!
Ballycastle-Rathlin Island Sailings daily, weather permitting. 45 mins. Groups and wheelchair users by request. Booking advised.
Built in the 18th Century, this listed Georgian Manor House nestles in the shelter of Church Bay, adjacent to the harbour at the heart of Rathlin Island.
Just 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.
After a day of exploring the island or a family trip to the beach, a much-needed drink or snack can be found at McCuaig’s. Name plates from unfortunate ships, that were wrecked around the shores of Rathlin, adorn the walls of the pub. Outside, you can sit and enjoy the sea views and spectacular sunsets.
Spend time in the Boathouse Visitor Centre for a dip into Rathlin's history.
Breakwater 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.
