RSPB Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre

About

*The Seabird Centre reopens 1 April 2020* A must-visit for unrivalled views of Northern Ireland's largest seabird colony and a chance to explore Rathlin's unique 'upside down' lighthouse, part of the Great Lighthouses of Ireland Trail. Before you even step ashore, look out for gannets, gulls and dolphins during the ferry crossing. Once on the island, head four miles west (by privately-operated bus, bike or on foot) to the West Light Seabird Centre. Here you'll have close-up views of Northern Ireland's biggest seabird colony, where thousands of puffins, razorbills, guillemots and kittiwakes and others jostle for space on the cliffs overlooking the colony from May to July. Friendly staff and volunteers are on hand to answer questions; binoculars and scopes are available to use free of charge. There is a 158-step descent to the viewing platform and lighthouse. Registered guide dogs can access the Visitor Centre. Other dogs must be tied up outside the Visitor Centre during a visit.

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 1 hour 30 minutes