Helpful Information

Helpful information about Rathlin

There is lots to do and lots to see on the island. You can stay overnight in comfortable accommodation and enjoy hospitality and watch the sun go down. The Rathlin Community’s website www.rathlincommunity.org is the recommended place to get up to date information.

Please check the weather forecast before you travel. Dress for the weather and book your ferry in advance. You are responsible for your own safety. Please respect the residents and their island. In the event of bad weather eg wind, rain or fog, Paul may cancel your walk.

Rathlin and the Causeway FAQs

How do I get to Rathlin?
Get the ferry from Ballycastle, there are sailings daily. Book with Rathlin Island Ferry Ltd, call the office on 02820769299.

What visitor facilities are there on Rathlin?
Several accommodation options exist and you can get food and drink easily. There is a minibus service, which usually meets the incoming ferries, this gets you to the RSPB Seabird Centre. The Seabird Centre is open from Spring to early September, admission charges apply, although RSPB members go free. There is a shop, incorporating the Post Office, an art gallery and a pub. Public toilets are a quick walk from the ferries.

I’ve heard about Puffins, everyone says they are worth a look. Any advice?
The best way of seeing Puffins is go to the RSPB Seabird Centre. Here staff will help show you Puffins and other bird species. Binoculars and telescopes are on loan. Best time to visit is May to Mid July. You can have a brilliant time on Rathlin, though, even if you don’t visit the RSPB.

What about riding a bike?
Either bring your own bike on the ferry or you can hire a bike on arrival… advance booking needed either way.

I want to bring my dog, is that ok?
Yes, as long as it is on a lead. Dogs aren’t allowed inside the Seabird Centre and may not be carried on the island bus.

What sort of walk is on offer at the Causeway?
Usually Paul starts the walk at Dunseverick Castle and ends at the Causeway. It is amazing and spectacular. Anyone can visit the Causeway free of charge, but there is an admission charge to access the Causeway Visitor Centre. Because the Causeway is generally busy, you won’t be able to park your car for free. Toilets are free at the Causeway.

Is Paul’s Causeway walk one way?
Yes. Sometimes it is timed so walkers can rejoin their own vehicle, parked at Dunseverick, by getting public transport from the Causeway to Dunseverick. Paul can advise.

Are Paul’s walks weather dependent?
To some extent. The Causeway walk goes along spectacular cliffs. If it is windy or if there is lots of rain, the walk won’t go ahead. On Rathlin, walks proceed unless the ferries are cancelled owing to poor weather.

If I have more questions, what should I do?
Contact Paul on 0044 5566924, although email queries preferred, paul.quinn33@hotmail.co.uk.

Rathlin cliffs from the old Coastguard Station - © Andy McInroy