Rathlin Island
Rathlin IslandOpenSee opening timesCraggy cliffs meet crashing waves at this seabird sanctuary, located on Rathlin Island.
About
⚠ Last entry to Rathlin Island is one hour before closing ⚠
Rathlin Island is a remote retreat for breeding seabirds, in fact it’s home to Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony. On the west coast of the island, the cliffs face the open Atlantic Ocean, and provide the ideal place for Puffins, Guillemots, Kittiwakes, Razorbills, Fulmars and even Corncrakes to nest and raise their chicks. Wander over the clifftops and see how many seabirds you can spot on our off-road Roonivoolin walking trail. Head to the Seabird Centre from late April to early July for close-up views of Puffins and other seabirds gathering in their thousands. Or check out the unique ‘upside-down’ lighthouse that watches over the choppy seas.
As well as rugged cliffs, the reserve is made up of unimproved grassland and several lakes. Roonivoolin, located at the southernmost tip of the island, is where Lapwings, Corncrake, Snipe and Irish Hares thrive. Over the past 40 years, changes to farming practices have resulted in drastic declines for all of these species. We have been working to create the ideal habitats for Corncrakes at the Church Bay, Craigmacagan, Knockans and Roonivoolin reserves. Our efforts are starting to pay off and the birds are now regularly returning to Rathlin Island to breed, after a 20-year absence.
Download our trail map, to help you plan your visit.
At a glance
Designated permit only car parking for ferry users at Ballycastle harbour. Exemptions include people with disabilities. Alternative parking adjacent to Ballycastle ferry terminal building. Limited road-side parking at Roonavoolin (1/2 cars). Limited parking/ drop-off at Seabird Centre (1/2 cars). Please note the Seabird Centre car park also acts as a turning point for the bus. Cycle lock up.
Toilets and accessible toilets on-site. Facilities also available at Ballycastle ferry terminal and on the ferry.
Facilities at West Light Seabird Centre, at Ballycastle ferry terminal and on board ferry.
The distance from Rathlin Island Harbour - West Light Seabird Centre is 4.5 miles. 98 steps down to platform and 64 steps to lighthouse plus steep path.
The distance from Rathlin Island Harbour - West Light Seabird Centre is 4.5 miles. 98 steps down to platform and 64 steps to lighthouse plus steep path.
In Ballycastle - There are no public toilets in the ferry terminal, there are some adjacent to the terminal and on the ferry. On Rathlin Island - There are toilets available in the West Light Seabird Centee during opening hours only. No toilets at Craigmacagan or Roonivoolin walking trails
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
Contact Rathlin Island
Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, Antrim, BT54 6SB 028 2076 0062 07516 588 097