Rathlin Island

BE A RATHLIN TRAILBLAZER

Guided walks through RSPB's reserve promise incredible encounter with nature

Discover Rathlin Island’s wildest side as you trek the trail through the RSPB reserve at the south of the island. Guided walks from May to August offer unprecedented exploration of the cliffs, hills and wildlife that make Rathlin so special.

Being guided by the RSPB adds an extra dimension. “We’ll be pointing out the rich biodiversity and features of this amazing natural resource and helping walkers spot lapwings, choughs, buzzards, oystercatchers, the unique golden hare and peregrine,” says the RSPB’s Imelda McFaul.

The trail covers some four miles of coastal grassland habitat. Walkers meet at the ferry passenger shelter at Rathlin Harbour at 11.30am and head towards the reserve via the shoreline, spotting common and grey seals along the way. “We’ll then skirt Lower Alley Lake where sightings of coot, tufted duck and mallard are always a possibility, then up to the cliffs for a stunning panorama of Rathlin’s chalk cliffs and the North Antrim Coast,” explains Imelda. “The route along the cliffs then promises incredible views of the Mull of Kintyre and Fair Head. There’s always a good chance of spotting buzzard, peregrine, snipe and wheatear.”

The route then passes Ushet Lake, home for geese, oystercatcher, lapwing and gulls. The walk should take around 3 hours.

Rathlin Island is already a haven for wildlife like the Irish hare, thousands of seabirds, rare plants and insects. In a major boost for Northern Ireland’s wildlife, fifty-two hectares of land was purchased in 2009 to safeguard some of our most important habitat. An essential part of this acquisition, made possible through support from the Heritage Lottery Fund, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and RSPB members, was making the land accessible to all.

Numbers are limited and interest is certain to be great, so early booking is advised. Please contact Janice at RSPB NI on 02890 491547. The walk costs £3 per adult, and children go free.