The Beatson’s Building Supplies Mull Rally returns to the Isle of Mull from Friday 10 October to Sunday 12 October 2025. This iconic motorsport event transforms the island’s public roads into a competitive stage, attracting drivers, spectators, and media from across the UK. For locals, it is a cultural cornerstone. For visitors, it is a rare opportunity to witness high-speed racing in one of Scotland’s most dramatic landscapes.
This guide provides everything you need to know about the 2025 rally: confirmed dates, route changes, ferry schedules, viewing zones, weather forecasts, and practical advice for attending. Whether you live on Mull or are planning your first visit, this post is designed to help you prepare.
Event Overview
The 2025 rally will run from Friday 10 October through Sunday 12 October. The route covers over 130 miles of closed public roads, including night stages and technical sections. The event is sanctioned by Motorsport UK and supported by Argyll and Bute Council, Police Scotland, and local businesses.
This year’s Clerk of the Course is Colin Harkness, a former competitor known for designing challenging and spectator-friendly stages. His 2025 route includes tighter transitions, improved safety zones, and new awards for front and rear-wheel drive competitors. The R.A.C.E. Escort Challenge returns with a £500 prize for the top Ford Escort.
Scrutineering will take place at Tobermory Distillery on Thursday 9 and Friday 10 October, reviving a tradition that connects the rally to its historic roots. The distillery location offers better access, visibility, and atmosphere than previous venues.
Entries opened on 4 August and will close on 18 September. Supplementary regulations were published on 16 July, detailing eligibility, safety requirements, and stage breakdowns. Official merchandise is available through Breakwater Clothing, including custom orders for teams and fans.
Calum Duffy’s Return: A Shot at History
The biggest headline of the 2025 rally is the return of Calum Duffy, one of the most successful drivers in Mull Rally history. Duffy will compete in Rally2 machinery, marking his first appearance in several years and setting the stage for a potential tenth overall victory.
His record includes nine wins, beginning with a Mitsubishi in 2000, followed by a dominant run in a Ford Escort Mk2, and a final victory in a Subaru Impreza. These performances earned him a reputation as the master of Mull. His return is expected to draw considerable attention from fans and competitors alike.
Duffy’s comeback adds a layer of excitement and legacy to this year’s event. Whether he secures a tenth win or not, his presence alone elevates the competitive field and reinforces the rally’s deep connection to local talent. For spectators, it is a rare chance to see a veteran driver attempt to rewrite the record books on home soil.
Ferry Service Changes
CalMac Ferries have confirmed service adjustments for rally week, spanning Wednesday 8 October to Monday 14 October. These changes are designed to accommodate increased traffic and ensure smooth travel for competitors, officials, and spectators.
Oban to Craignure
- Wednesday 8 October: MV Isle of Mull departs Oban 20:35, arrives Craignure 21:40
- Wednesday 8 October: MV Loch Frisa departs Craignure 21:10, arrives Oban 22:20
- Sunday 12 October: MV Isle of Mull departs Oban 07:25, arrives Craignure 08:45
- Sunday 12 October: MV Loch Frisa departs Craignure 06:45, arrives Oban 08:10
Lochaline to Fishnish
- Extended timetable from 8 to 14 October
- Early morning and late evening crossings added
- Passenger restrictions may apply due to demand
Advance booking is strongly recommended. Foot passengers and vehicles may face delays or capacity limits, especially on Sunday departures. Visit CalMac’s service update page for live schedules and ticketing.
Viewing Zones
Spectator safety is a priority. All viewing areas are managed by rally marshals and clearly marked. Recommended zones include:
Glengorm Crossroads
Elevated views of braking zones and transitions. Parking, toilets, and food vendors available. Suitable for families and large groups.
Tobermory Town Stage
Urban rallying through the harbour streets. Walkable from central accommodation. High visibility and crowd atmosphere.
Calgary Bay
Coastal views with dramatic backdrops. Limited parking and exposed conditions. Arrive early and dress for wind and rain.
Mishnish Lochs
Night stages with natural amphitheatre acoustics. Bring torches, layered clothing, and printed maps. Visibility and safety depend on preparation.
Spectators must stay behind barriers and follow marshal instructions. Weather conditions can change rapidly. Waterproof gear and sturdy footwear are essential.
Weather Forecast
The forecast for rally weekend is typical for October on Mull. It will not be warm.
- Friday 10 October: High 11°C, Low 5°C, 51 percent chance of rain
- Saturday 11 October: High 11°C, Low 7°C, 63 percent chance of rain
- Sunday 12 October: High 12°C, Low 7°C, 58 percent chance of rain
Expect brisk winds, short daylight hours, and intermittent showers. Night stages will be cold and damp. Spectators should pack waterproof jackets, boots, gloves, and torches. Accommodation providers should prepare for drying gear and warming facilities.
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Accommodation Advice
Rally weekend sees high demand for local accommodation. If you have not booked yet, consider the following areas:
- Tobermory: Central location with access to scrutineering and town stage
- Craignure: Close to ferry terminal and quieter surroundings
- Salen and Dervaig: Near key rally stages with scenic drives
- Fionnphort: Suitable for extended stays or combining rally with Iona visits
Use the Mull Directory to find verified listings for guest houses, self-catering cottages, and B&Bs. Many properties offer early breakfasts, secure parking, and rally-friendly amenities.
What to Pack
Preparation is essential. Recommended items include:
- Waterproof jacket and boots
- Torch and spare batteries
- Binoculars for rally spotting
- Snacks and thermos
- Printed ferry ticket and OS map
- Gloves, hat, and layered clothing
Mobile signal is unreliable in remote areas. Offline GPS apps and printed maps are advised. Night stages require extra caution and visibility tools.
Local Impact
The Mull Rally is deeply woven into the island’s identity. Many competitors are residents, and the event inspires young locals to pursue careers in motorsport, engineering, and logistics. The rally boosts the local economy through accommodation, food service, retail, and transport.
Support from Argyll and Bute Council, Police Scotland, and local volunteers ensures safety and coordination. Sustainability efforts include carbon offsetting and rewilding projects, reinforcing the rally’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
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Final Notes
Mull Rally 2025 promises high-speed action, community pride, and logistical complexity. Whether you are a local resident or a visiting spectator, planning ahead will make the experience safer and more enjoyable.
Check ferry schedules, book accommodation early, and pack for cold, wet conditions. Use the Mull Directory for trusted listings, travel updates, and local insights. For rally-specific information, visit mullrally.org and calmac.co.uk.
You can download the official Mull Rally 2025 Guide in PDF format.
This guide will be updated as new details emerge. Stay informed, stay safe, and enjoy the rally.
