RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre: An Upside-Down Wonder
Discover Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony and a unique 'upside-down' lighthouse on Rathlin Island. Open seasonally.
Perched on Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland's only inhabited offshore island, the RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre offers stunning views of a thriving seabird colony and the unique 'upside-down' lighthouse. This remarkable attraction combines natural beauty with maritime history, providing an unforgettable experience for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre
- Rathlin Island, Ballycastle, BT54 6RT, GB
- +442820760062
- Visit website
- Monday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Thursday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Friday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Saturday 9:30 am-4 pm
- Sunday 9:30 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book your ferry to Rathlin Island in advance, especially during peak season, as sailings can fill up quickly.
- Bring cash for the Puffin Bus, which provides transport from the harbor to the Seabird Centre, as card payments are not accepted.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the path to the viewing platform and lighthouse involves a descent of 98 steps to the platform and a further 64 to the bottom of the lighthouse.
- Note that dogs, except for guide and assistance dogs, are not allowed inside the Seabird Centre and Lighthouse, though there are facilities to tie them up outside the Visitor Centre.
Getting There
-
Ferry
The first step to reaching the RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre is to take the ferry from Ballycastle. The ferry operates from Ballycastle Harbour and arrives at Church Bay on Rathlin Island. Two ferries operate on this route: the 'Spirit of Rathlin' which accommodates vehicles and the passenger-only 'Kintra II'. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. As of July 2025, a return ticket costs £16 for adults and £8 for children (ages 5-15). Booking in advance is essential. From Church Bay, you have several options to reach the Seabird Centre: 1. Puffin Bus: During the summer season, a privately operated bus service known as the 'Puffin Bus' meets the ferries and provides transport to the Seabird Centre. A return ticket costs £6 per person, payable in cash. The journey takes around 20 minutes. 2. Walking: The Seabird Centre is approximately 4.5 miles (7.2 km) from Church Bay, a walk that takes around 90-120 minutes. 3. Cycling: Bicycles can be hired on Rathlin Island. Contact John and Jennifer on 028 2076 3954 or email john_jennifer@btinternet.com to book a bicycle.
Discover more about RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre
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