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Church Bay, Rathlin Island, near Ballycastle

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Details

Accessibility

Brief description

2025: "Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland's northernmost inhabited point, is a rugged, L-shaped island just six miles off Ballycastle, known for its stunning wildlife, seabird colonies (especially puffins!), seals, and rich history, accessible via a ferry from Ballycastle. Visitors explore its dramatic cliffs, walking trails, and peaceful villages like Church Bay by foot, bike, or the island's Puffin bus, enjoying nature, history, and a tranquil escape with pubs, cafes, and essential services.

Getting There

Ferry from Ballycastle: Operates year-round but check schedules; two ferries (foot passenger & vehicle) leave from Ballycastle Marina.
Booking: Recommended to book ferry tickets in advance.

What to See & Do

Wildlife: See puffins (April-July), seals, Red-Billed Choughs, dolphins, and whales.
RSPB West Light Seabird Centre: A major highlight for birdwatching.
Walking & Cycling: Numerous trails (e.g., Ballyconagan Trail, East Light Walk) and traffic-free roads are great for exploring.
History: Discover ancient forts, castles, and sites linked to Robert the Bruce.
Beaches: Church Bay offers sandy shores and facilities.
Puffin Bus: A short tour of the island's highlights.

Island Life

Small & Peaceful: A quiet escape with a small population, a pub, cafes, and limited shops.
Stay: Options for overnight stays are available.
Essentials: One grocery store and basic amenities are present.

Tips

Check ferry times and weather before you go.
Book accommodation and activities ahead, especially in peak season." https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rathlin_Island
2025: "Rathlin Island (Irish: Reachlainn, pronounced [ˈɾˠaxlən̠ʲ]; Local Irish dialect: Reachraidh, Irish pronunciation: [ˈɾˠaxɾˠi]; Scots: Racherie)[2] is an island and civil parish off the coast of County Antrim (of which it is part) in Northern Ireland. It is Northern Ireland's northernmost point. As of the 2021 Census there were 141 people living on the island.[3]
A ferry operated by Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd connects the main port of the island, Church Bay, with the mainland at Ballycastle, six nautical miles (eleven kilometres) away. Two ferries operate on the route – the fast foot-passenger-only catamaran ferry Rathlin Express and a purpose-built larger ferry, commissioned in May 2017, Spirit of Rathlin, which carries both foot passengers and a small number of vehicles, weather permitting.[12][13] Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd won a six-year contract for the service in 2008 providing it as a subsidised "lifeline" service.[14] There is an ongoing investigation on how the transfer was handled between the Environment Minister and the new owners.[15]"

Address

Rathlin Island Ferry Port

Rathlin Island - Ballycastle

Rathlin Island

Ballycastle BT54 6RT

( + Rathlin Island Ferry

18 Bayview Rd

Ballycastle

BT54 6BT )

Email

The Resource Centre, Rathlin Island Co. Antrim BT54 6RT rdcaoffice@gmail.com

Phone

Website

https://rathlin360.com/

https://discovernorthernireland.com/things-to-do/rathlin-island-p687111

https://www.rspb.org.uk/days-out/reserves/rathlin-island

Directions

Opening Times

Always check with the venue directly for up-to-date information including opening times and admission charges as they may be subject to change

2025: "The Rathlin Boathouse Visitor Centre is open 7 days a week during the spring and summer months only. Opening hours are 10.00am – 5.00pm. Closed for lunch 12.30 – 1.00pm. Admission free. +44 (0) 28 2076 2024

For information about ferry crossings and bookings, please contact Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd.

For tourist information, please contact Ballycastle Tourist Information Centre. "

Transport

Amenities

Rathlin Boathouse Visitor Centre (Seasonal Opening week before Easter (April 14th 2025) to September)