Rathlin Island

Island · Causeway Coast and Glens

Rathlin Island

Island · Causeway Coast and Glens

1

Ballycastle, UK

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Rathlin Island by null
Rathlin Island by null

Highlights

Rathlin Island is a picturesque 6-mile retreat featuring hiking trails, stunning views, puffins, shipwrecks, and charming local shops.  

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Ballycastle, UK Get directions

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Ballycastle, UK Get directions

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Last updated

Jul 13, 2025

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The 19 Most Beautiful Places in Ireland, From Inconceivable Rock Formations to Medieval Architecture

"Location: County Antrim Suspended almost 100 feet above sea level, the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge was first built by salmon fishermen over 200 years ago. Although the last fish was caught here in 2002, somewhere around a quarter of a million visitors cross the bridge for both thrills and scenery. Tourists walking the 66-foot path are rewarded with views of Rathlin Island, Scotland, and the Irish Sea. A lucky few might even spot some sharks and porpoises below in the water...if they dare to look down." - Caitlin Morton

https://www.cntraveler.com/galleries/2016-03-15/the-most-beautiful-places-in-ireland
View Postcard for Rathlin Island

Darren Stevenson

Google
Had a lovely walk up to bird sanctuary from the harbour. Staff at bird sanctuary very helpful. Got the bus back, this is a total rip off . For my wife and I and our 7 year old ant 4 year old it was £17 for 3 3/4 miles and the bus was falling apart.

Kev K

Google
A GEM OF A PLACE THAT NO ONE SHOULD MISS VISITING. I have visited Rathlin Island every year for more years than I care to remember. I've stayed overnight in the Manor House (though not since the renovation and new management took over) and at a number of guesthouse cottages. Rathlin has a wonderful relaxed ambiance to it, even in the rain. I suggest visiting in the summer months from April to September. The West Lighthouse and RSPB Seabird Centre are places not to be missed. If you are reasonably fit, walk the four miles (6.5 km) from Church Bay, where you get off the ferry, to the West Lighthouse, the terrain is reasonable, there's no rush and little traffic, save the puffin bus. That way you see more of the island and more chance of seeing Chough - rare corvids that have bred on the island. A second visit you should walk to the East and Rue Lighthouses, a wonderful ramble across the cliff tops for part of the journey and visit the place where King Robert the Bruce of Scotland hid following defeat to the English in 1306AD. A nature lovers paradise, there a lots of species to be seen resident and migrant on the island, don't forget to keep your eyes peeled for the Golden Hares and if you're into scuba diving, it is one of the best places across the UK and Ireland to dive. Remember to book your ferry early (online) and allow sufficient time to complete whatever activities you have planned - time, tide and the Rathlin Ferry wait for no man. Also check weather conditions, there are occasions earn the ferry has to be cancelled. As I said, a place not to be missed.

Tim Griffin

Google
A treasure of the North Coast. My kids and I love it here. I run boat trips to the island and all my passengers enjoy seeing the Upside Down Lighthouse, the Puffins, and having a pint at McCuaig's Bar. I highly recommend a visit. Tim (Abháinn Cruises)

Ricky Adair

Google
Visited and worked on the island quite a few times now! Great wee place for wildlife especially if youre lucky enough to see the dolphins and seals. Cant eait to try the new pods out

Amanda Duffy

Google
Short ferry crossing £12 return and took our bikes. There is a little bus collects from harbour to the RSPB lighthouse which i have done before but wanted to see other parts this time. What an adventure...tranquil and beautiful. Wild geese on the mini lochs & seals basking on the rocks. Really special. You could walk if on the island all day and i see there is a cycle hire also. This aerial photo i took is of the oldest lighthouse on the Scottish side where Robert the Bruce is said to have hidden in the cave below. Lovely day out.

Pavel Bednařík

Google
Heart of wild life, charming harbour, friendly people always smiling. Place you have to visit on any Northern Ireland trip!

Neil Lewis

Google
Beautiful island, be sure to spend at least a half day to take it all in or hike.

Ewa Malysz

Google
Beautiful Island Worth visit!