Arkell House Bed and Breakfast

Our room on the top floor looked out over Church Bay, where we could sit and watch seals, eider ducks and black guillemots in the harbour. The rooms felt homely and full of character, with thoughtful details throughout. Nothing felt like a bland hotel room. Hilary looked after us so well. One day, after a morning walk, we came back to collect our packed lunch and found the seafront picnic table laid with a linen cloth and fresh flowers. Hilary kept bringing food, wine and tea down from the first-floor kitchen. She also provided all our meals, and breakfast, lunch and dinner were delicious, plentiful and great value. Alan met us in Ballycastle and took us across to the island by boat, which was a lovely experience. Boat trips via the rope bridge or out to see the seals and seabird colonies can be arranged. We stayed three nights in May 2018 at Rathlin Island’s Arkell B&B, and it surpassed every expectation. Calling it just a B&B doesn't do it justice.

The cottage overlooking Church Bay gave us amazing views. It was a little old and could use renovation, but it was just right for what we needed: a good night's sleep. They picked us up in the morning for breakfast at the main B and B and helped us with bus times and other details. From the first booking call to the last handshake when Hilary and Alan dropped us back in Ballycastle, the whole stay felt perfect. They couldn't have done more for us. We look forward to coming back and will definitely stay with the same hosts.

Hilary took our booking at the very last minute and was so helpful throughout. The B&B was lovely, and she made an excellent breakfast. She was a lovely host.

Arkell House was a wonderful place to stay in June 2021. The rooms were spotless, the food was at five-star restaurant standard, and the hosts always had time to chat and ask about our day. They made us feel like VIPs. Rathlin Island is a welcome break from the bustle of the mainland, and I thoroughly recommend both the island and Arkell House.