Rathlin Island facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Rathlin Island
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 True-color ESA Sentinel-2 image of Rathlin Island |
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 Rathlin Island
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| Population | 154 |
| Irish grid reference | D134518 |
| • Belfast | 47 miles |
| District |
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| County | |
| Country | Northern Ireland |
| Sovereign state | United Kingdom |
| Post town | Ballycastle |
| Postcode district | BT54 |
| Dialling code | 028 |
| Police | Northern Ireland |
| Fire | Northern Ireland |
| Ambulance | Northern Ireland |
| EU Parliament | Northern Ireland |
| UK Parliament |
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| Website | Rathlin Development & Community Association's official website: http://www.rathlincommunity.org/ |
Rathlin Island is a small island located off the coast of County Antrim in Northern Ireland. It's a really popular spot for people who want to escape the busy mainland and enjoy some peace and quiet. Many visitors simply take a ferry from Ballycastle to reach this beautiful island.
Rathlin Island is a great place to explore. You can walk, cycle, or even use inflatable boats to get around. The island offers amazing views, with stunning scenery, tall lighthouses, and waves crashing against the rocky coast. It's a perfect destination for anyone who loves nature and the outdoors.
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What Animals Live on Rathlin Island?
Rathlin Island is a special home for many different kinds of animals. It's a fantastic place for visitors to see wildlife living freely in their natural environment. The island is especially known for its wide variety of sea creatures and birds. You can often spot dolphins, seals, and many types of seabirds visiting the island's shores.
Birdwatching on Rathlin Island
Rathlin Island is famous for its huge bird colonies. Thousands of seabirds come here to nest during the spring and summer months. You can see puffins, guillemots, razorbills, and kittiwakes. The best place to watch these birds is at the RSPB Seabird Centre, located at the West Lighthouse. It's a truly amazing sight to see so many birds in one place!
Marine Life Around the Island
The waters around Rathlin Island are full of life. Divers and snorkelers can explore a rich underwater world. You might see colourful fish, crabs, and even seals swimming gracefully. The island's clear waters and rocky reefs provide a perfect habitat for many marine species.
How to Get to Rathlin Island
The main way to reach Rathlin Island is by ferry from Ballycastle. There are two ferry services available. The 'Spirit of Rathlin' is a larger, faster ferry that carries passengers and some light cargo. The 'Rathlin Express' is a smaller, quicker ferry, mainly for passengers. It's a short and scenic journey across the sea.
Exploring the Island's History
Rathlin Island has a long and interesting history. People have lived here for thousands of years. There are signs of ancient settlements and historical events all over the island.
Ancient Times on Rathlin
Archaeologists have found many old items on Rathlin Island. These include tools and pottery from the Stone Age and Bronze Age. One famous discovery is the Malone Hoard, which included polished axes made from special stone found nearby. These finds show that people were living and working on Rathlin a very long time ago.
Famous Visitors and Legends
Rathlin Island is also linked to some famous stories. One legend says that Robert the Bruce, a Scottish king, found inspiration here. He was hiding on the island and saw a spider trying again and again to build its web. This taught him to "try, try and try again," which helped him win battles later on.
What to Do on Rathlin Island
Rathlin Island offers many activities for visitors. You can enjoy walking trails, visit the lighthouses, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Walking and Cycling Trails
The island has several walking and cycling paths that let you explore its beautiful landscapes. You can walk along the coast, discover hidden coves, and enjoy stunning views of the sea and the mainland. It's a great way to get some exercise and fresh air.
The Rathlin Lighthouses
Rathlin Island is home to three lighthouses: the East Lighthouse, the Rue Lighthouse, and the West Lighthouse. The West Lighthouse is unique because its light shines from the bottom of the building! It's also where the RSPB Seabird Centre is located, offering amazing views of the cliffs and birds.
Images for kids
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Spirit of Rathlin Ferry 2019
See also
In Spanish: Isla de Rathlin para niños
