Things to do in Rathlin Island

Activities, attractions and tours

A rugged coastline with large rock formations and a dramatic sky.
A coastal landscape with a ruined stone structure and a clear view of the sea and distant mountains.
A coastal path with a stone wall, rocky beach, and houses in the background.
A lighthouse on a grassy hill with a cloudy sky.
A coastal landscape with rocky cliffs, grassy areas, and a calm sea.

Things to do

Northern Ireland: Causeway Coasteering Adventure

Northern Ireland: Causeway Coasteering Adventure

RM354
per adult
Northern Ireland: Causeway Coasteering Adventure
Luxury Giants Causeway Tour in Mercedes + FREE Belfast Mural Tour

Luxury Giants Causeway Tour in Mercedes + FREE Belfast Mural Tour

RM3,024
per traveller
Luxury Giants Causeway Tour in Mercedes + FREE Belfast Mural Tour
Premium Fully Customizable Shore Excursion Tour From Belfast Cruise Terminal

Shore Excursion: Giants Causeway Tour From Belfast Port

RM3,160
per traveller
Shore Excursion: Giants Causeway Tour From Belfast Port
Private Giants Causeway Tour From Belfast Cruise Terminal

Private Giants Causeway Tour From Belfast Cruise Terminal

RM3,160
per traveller
Private Giants Causeway Tour From Belfast Cruise Terminal
The Dark Hedges

Full-Day Private Giant's Causeway Experience

RM3,269
per traveller
Full-Day Private Giant's Causeway Experience
Walk in the footsteps of Giants on a Giants Causeway scenic tour

Giants Causeway small group private tours up to 7 people

RM3,542
per traveller
100% of travellers recommend
Giants Causeway small group private tours up to 7 people
Belfast Private Luxury Tour - Giants Causeway : Scenery & History

Belfast Private Luxury Tour - Giants Causeway : Scenery & History

RM3,972
per traveller
Belfast Private Luxury Tour - Giants Causeway : Scenery & History
11 Hour Day Trip Giant’s Causeway from Belfast

11 Hour Day Trip Giant’s Causeway from Belfast

RM4,024
per adult
11 Hour Day Trip Giant’s Causeway from Belfast
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Top places to visit

1. Giant's Causeway

The beautiful natural rock formation that is Giant’s Causeway attracts visitors from all over the world for its wonderful views, abundant wildlife and intriguing natural history.
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A rocky coastal landscape with a calm sea, green moss-covered rocks, and a distant island.

2. The Dark Hedges

The Stuart family, who wished to impress visitors to their home in the nearby Gracehill House, planted the beech trees here some 200 years ago. It is quite apparent from a visit here just how successful they were, as the Dark Hedges still astound visitors today.
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A pathway lined with large trees, a group of people walking, and a hill in the background.

3. Old Bushmills Distillery

Whiskey lovers mustn’t miss out on the chance to visit the Old Bushmills Distillery, one of the few historic operating distilleries that offers tours to the public. Even if you aren’t too fond of the distinctive alcoholic malt drink that Ireland is famous for, it’s interesting to learn about its history and see how it’s made.
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A row of wooden barrels with labels indicating they are from the 1600s and contain single malt whisky.

4. Dunluce Castle

Almost hanging off the edge of a cliff overlooking the Irish Sea, ancient Dunluce Castle was built as a symbol of power. Its precarious position at the edge of the cliff saw parts of the castle collapse into the sea in 1639, and the building was subsequently abandoned. Attracting walkers, history fanatics and photographers, the atmospheric ruins make for a wonderful sight and offer great photo opportunities.
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A coastal ruin with a view of the ocean.

5. Glenariff Forest Park

Set in the valley of Glenariff, one of nine County Antrim glens and popularly known as the “Queen of the Glens”, the park is under half an hour’s drive from Ballymena and around an hour from Belfast. Some car parking is available for a small fee.
Learn more
A stone wall overlooking a valley with rolling hills and a distant view of the sea.

What to do in Rathlin Island

A coastal town with houses along the beach, a clear blue sea, and green hills in the background.

Ballymena

A sandy beach with gentle waves, a clear blue sky, and a grassy hill with a white building in the distance.

Antrim

A marina with boats docked, surrounded by a rocky shoreline and greenery.

Glenarm

Frequently asked questions

Is Rathlin Island worth visiting?
Offering a mix of nature and history, there are many things to do in Rathlin Island. While you're here, visit Ballintoy Harbour, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Rathlin Island?
Start your day with a visit to Ballintoy Harbour and Sheep Island. Then, tour other parts of Rathlin Island for a bite to eat and some shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Rathlin Island?
Don't leave without visiting Ballintoy Harbour, ranked the top tourist attraction in Rathlin Island.
Is three days enough to stay in Rathlin Island?
Three days is plenty for a quick trip to Rathlin Island — you'll hit the main sights and get a good feel for the place. But if you truly want to soak it all in, plan at least a week to check out some nearby highlights too.
What are some activities to do in Rathlin Island with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a fun-filled itinerary sets the tone for a great escape. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Rathlin Island with kids.

What to do in Rathlin Island for adults?
From incredible food and cultural highlights to thrilling activities and unique experiences, there are plenty of interesting things to do in Rathlin Island for adults.
Are there free things to do in Rathlin Island?
One of the top ways to find free things to do in Rathlin Island is to ask a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on cool neighbourhoods, parks and other top attractions you can visit without getting your cash out. Murlough Bay is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.