The beautiful Rathlin Island

You can walk or cycle thepeaceful lanes of Rathlin andenjoy the clean unspoilt air - it’sperfect for a day trip or a relaxingbreak away from the hustle and bustle.

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 small population of around seventy people.

In the harbour is the Boathouse, where visitors can discover some of the exciting history, learn about present day island life and see some artefacts from shipwrecks around the island. A short walk around to Mill Bay there is a colony of seals, who are fun to just sit and watch!

At the other side of the harbour are two churches where visitors can sit quietly or just admire the architecture. At the west of the island is the renowned RSPB Seabird Centre, where puffins, guillemots, razorbills and kittiwakes can be viewed during the summer months. It is also home to some magnificent views, on clear days Donegal, the North Antrim coastline, the island of Islay and the Mull of Kintyre can be seen.

Throughout the year special occasions are celebrated with ceilidhs. Music, song and dance remain at the heart of the community life.

There are many tales of myth and mystery surrounding Rathlin, the most famous tells of Robert the Bruce. In 1306, the Scottish King was driven from Scotland by Edward I of England and took refuge on Rathlin. While he was on Rathlin, it is said that he watched a spider persevering again and again to bridge a gap with its web. Eventually it succeeded.

Robert the Bruce took heart from the spider's efforts, raised fresh forces and returned to Scotland to fight for his kingdom. He too, eventually succeeded.

There is accommodation to suit all needs, and a pub and restaurant to while away a few hours in the evening!

Trips from Ballycastle operate daily all year round and the operators are pleased to offer secure online booking. Booking is advisable to avoid disappointment, and sailings subject to weather and other conditions.

Operators RIFL are committed to providing a community focused ferry service between Ballycastle and Rathlin Island, and are committed to providing a quality, safe, clean and reliable service every day of the year.

The Company aims to provide a safe, reliable, clean and effective service which meets the highest standards, with at least 96% of all sailings leaving within 30 minutes of the schedule time.

Contact the office at 02820769299 before sailing for weather reports and ferry updates.