A beautiful and historic island reached by a short ferry crossing from Ballycastle, County Antrim.
A haven for wildlife, get the bus to the RSPB centre on the west of the island where you can enjoy watching nesting seabirds (including kittiwakes, puffins and razorbills) on the spectacular cliffs. Give the bus a miss and return to the port on foot. The four mile walk is great and you can enjoy a rewarding Guinness overlooking the bay when you arrive. If you wander east from the port you may see seals basking in the sun on the beaches in summer.
Rathlin Island has a fascinating and rich history and is a real gem in the wonderful north of Ireland.
www.antrim.net/rathlin/
www.calmac.co.uk/summer-rathlin-island-timetable.html
Rathlin is where Robert the Bruce saw his spider try, try again.Send your feedback or queries to been.there@guardian.co.uk
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