Rathlin Island

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 slowly increasing population of around 140 people.

A short walk from the harbour is the Boathouse Visitor Centre, where visitors can discover some of the exciting history, learn about present day island life and see some artefacts from shipwrecks around the island. Walk a little further to Mill Bay and you may see some of the resident seals.

At the other side of the harbour are two churches where visitors can sit quietly or just admire the architecture. 

Many tales of myth and mystery surround Rathlin; perhaps 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 where he watched a spider persevering again and again to bridge a gap with its web. Eventually it succeeded. Taking heart from the spider's efforts, he returned to Scotland and eventually regained his crown. 

The island has a range of accommodation to suit different needs, a pub, restaurant, community shop and gift shop, offering Rathlin produced crafts. ‘Breakwater Studio’ features the work of local artist Yvonne Braithwaite.

The Rathlin Development & Community Association (RDCA) is the voluntary body that represents the Rathlin community and manages an informative website with detailed information about services and activities on the island www.rathlincommunity.org