Discover Rathlin
Rathlin is the perfect distance from nearby Ballycastle for a daytrip
You can pack a lot in, but leave the island revived.
Why not stay-cation or grab a few days away to experience somewhere special? Whatever your travel plans are, getting here is part of the charm and experience. Once you step on the ferry, you can leave your cares and troubles behind for a short while as you join us on our island that we call home.
Your journey to Ballycastle, the gateway to Rathlin
Travelling by car or
motorbike
If you do not live close to a bus route, travelling by car or motorbike is the easiest way to travel to Ballycastle. Located just over an hour’s drive from Belfast and from Derry, and about three hours from Dublin, we are well served with free parking near in the harbour area.
Leave your car at home and
come by bus
There are no rail links to Ballycastle. However, Ballycastle is connected to the Translink service. For timetable information check their website https://www.translink.co.uk/timetables
Nearby ports
If you’re travelling from further afield either domestically or internationally, Northern Ireland has three key airports: Belfast International, Belfast City and City of Derry Airports.
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Your journey to Rathlin
and getting around while you are here
A new ferry company now operates the Rathlin/Ballycastle Ferry. You can find information about the timetable on their website Rathlin Ferry (rathlin-ferry.com)
Two private companies run minibuses to and from the RSPB Seabird Centre at the West Lighthouse. They operate from the harbour during the summer season, collecting passengers from incoming ferries in the morning.
£5 return for adults, £3 for children (cash payment only). The journey takes about 20 minutes each way, and the bus companies usually leave passengers at the Seabird Centre for about an hour.
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