Rathlin Islands Three Lighthouses

Rathin West Light
Admire the coastal landscape and this unusual ‘upside down’ lighthouse from the water with Kintra Boat Tours. Step into nature with an island hike, visit Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre to learn about our feathered friends, or journey back in time via Rathlin Boathouse Visitor Centre

Rathin East
A request from mariners for a light on Rathlin Island was first made in 1827, but due to differences of opinion between the Commissioners of Northern Lights in Edinburgh and the Corporation for Improving the Port of Dublin or Ballast Board, the final approval from Trinity House was not obtained until March 1847 and construction did not start until May 1849. The buildings were designed by the Ballast Board's Inspector of Works & Inspector of Lighthouses, George Halpin, and were constructed by the Board's workmen.

Rue Point Lighthouse
An unwatched light at Rue Point was recommended by the Inspecting Committee in July 1914 after a memorial, signed by Master Mariners, had been forwarded to the Commissioners from the Derry Chamber of Commerce. Sanction from Trinity House was obtained in November 1914 but the Board of Trade postponed the new light until 1916-17.

Towards the end of 1915 the Board carried out the erection of a temporary white double flashing light for the Admiralty. It was established on 19th November 1915 without a Notice to Mariners being issued. The Board of Trade followed this up by stating that if the Admiralty was satisfied with the temporary light they will not sanction a permanent structure