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Things to Do in Howth, Ireland
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Plan language: EnglishMost popular attractions in Howth, Ireland
Things to do in Howth, Ireland include exploring the scenic Howth Cliff Walk, a 6-kilometer trail offering stunning coastal views. Visit the historic Howth Castle, surrounded by lush gardens. Don't miss Ireland's Eye, a small island just half a mile offshore, perfect for birdwatching and boat trips. Howth Harbour offers fresh seafood and picturesque vibes.
1. Howth Castle
Step into eight centuries of living history in a lush, blooming estate. Wander through vibrant gardens and ancient towers that tell timeless stories.
Quick facts: Families from the same lineage have called this place home for almost 800 years, fostering a deep-rooted history that’s rare to find intact. The grounds include an enchanting 100-acre estate with deer roaming freely, adding to its serene charm.
Highlights: A magical feature to discover is the original medieval defensive tower tucked within the estate, offering a tangible link to the past. Approximately 400,000 visitors come annually, drawn by the castle's stunning rhododendron blooms that paint the landscape vivid colors each spring.
2. Howth Cliff Walk
Experience jaw-dropping coastal views and fresh sea air. Walk exhilarating cliff paths with wildlife and stunning panoramas.
Quick facts: The trail stretches along rugged cliffs with spectacular views of the Irish Sea and Dublin Bay. Anglers and bird watchers frequent the area, attracted by the rich marine life and seabird colonies nesting on the cliffs.
Highlights: At one point, the path hugs the dramatic cliffs so closely that wildflowers seem to cascade over the edge into the crashing waves below. An old stone lookout known as 'The Stoop' offers panoramic snapshots that capture the wild Atlantic breeze and endless ocean depths.
3. Ireland's Eye
Escape to a serene island full of wildlife and rare bird species. Experience peaceful hikes and stunning coastal views with playful seals nearby.
Quick facts: A stunning island just off the coast, it's a bird lover's paradise with over 130 species recorded. The island also has remnants of a 12th-century church you can spot during your visit.
Highlights: Seals often lounge along the rocky shores, adding a lively splash of wildlife to your walk. Crystal-clear waters around the island invite kayakers and snorkelers to explore underwater caves and vibrant marine life.
4. Howth Harbour
Experience a vibrant fishing port alive with charm and fresh sea air. Explore scenic piers and meet friendly seals lounging by the rocks.
Quick facts: Boasting one of the busiest fishing harbours in Ireland, the waterfront is alive with colorful boats and fresh seafood scents. Seagulls soar above while local fishermen sort their catch, creating a lively and authentic maritime atmosphere.
Highlights: An iconic feature includes the stunning piers offering 360-degree views of the Irish Sea and Dublin Bay, especially enchanting during sunset hues. A quirky tradition involves watching the seals that lounge near the rocks, often popping up unexpectedly to greet visitors.
5. Howth Market
Explore a lively market with unique artisanal treats and crafts. Soak up the vibrant vibe with local music and stunning harbor views.
Quick facts: An eclectic mix of more than 30 stalls buzzes here every weekend, offering everything from artisan foods to handmade crafts. The market's lively atmosphere is punctuated by local musicians, creating a vibrant soundtrack for browsing.
Highlights: Sampling the famous Red Herring sandwich at the Long Range Smokehouse stall is a flavorful tradition worth trying. The market spills out toward the picturesque harbor, letting visitors enjoy views of colorful fishing boats while they shop.
6. Balscadden Bay
Escape to rugged coastal cliffs and quiet sea caves. Experience serene walks with dramatic ocean views and vibrant tide pools.
Quick facts: The bay is known for its striking cliffs that plunge dramatically into the sea and attract local anglers and birdwatchers alike. The area is less crowded than neighboring Howth Harbour, offering a peaceful retreat close to Dublin.
Highlights: Sea caves carved by centuries of Atlantic waves provide a stunning backdrop for adventurous explorers and photographers. At low tide, the rocky shore reveals vibrant pools teeming with marine life, making it a small natural aquarium to discover.
7. St. Mary's Abbey
Step into an ancient monastic world where history whispers through weathered stone walls. Explore peaceful ruins that invite quiet reflection and stunning early light photos.
Quick facts: Silent ruins here echo tales from centuries past, revealing a monastic life centered around contemplation and prayer. Sunlight often filters through old stone arches, casting mystical shadows on the thick grass below.
Highlights: Look closely at the intricately carved capitals on the nave columns, each tells a story of ancient craftsmanship rarely seen up close. Early morning visits unveil soft mist weaving through the ruins, heightening the eerie yet serene atmosphere.
8. Howth Lighthouse
Experience breathtaking coastal views from a dramatic cliffside beacon. Climb the spiral stairs and catch the luminous pulse that guides mariners nightly.
Quick facts: The lighthouse sends a bright beam visible up to 24 nautical miles, guiding ships safely along the Irish Sea. Its iconic white tower stands 23 meters tall, perched on rugged cliffs overlooking panoramic ocean views.
Highlights: Visitors can climb a spiraling staircase of 70 steps to reach the lantern room, offering a stunning vantage point rarely open to the public. The rhythmic light pulses every 30 seconds, a guardian signal illuminating foggy nights and stormy seas along the Irish coastline.
Where to Stay in Howth, Ireland
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Traditional Sweet Dishes
Barmbrack
Barmbrack is a traditional Irish fruitcake often enjoyed during Halloween with a ring or charm hidden inside for fortune telling.
Brack O' Howth
Brack O' Howth is a local variation of barmbrack, featuring dried fruits soaked in whiskey for added flavor.
Irish Apple Cake
Irish Apple Cake is a beloved dessert in Howth, typically served with fresh cream or custard and made with local apples.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Howth Seafood Chowder
Howth Seafood Chowder consists of fresh fish and shellfish from the harbor, simmered in a creamy broth, showcasing the town's rich fishing heritage.
Dublin Bay Prawns
Dublin Bay Prawns, also known as langoustines, are a prized delicacy in Howth, often grilled or served with garlic butter.
Coddle
Coddle is a traditional Dublin stew made with sausages, bacon, potatoes, and onions, reflecting the hearty, comforting cuisine of the region.
Traditional Beverages
Irish Coffee
Irish Coffee combines hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and cream, invented to warm up travelers arriving by plane to Ireland.
Poitin
Poitin is a traditional Irish distilled spirit historically made in small batches in rural areas like Howth, known for its high alcohol content.
Guinness Stout
Guinness Stout is Ireland's most famous beer, enjoyed nationwide including Howth, and recognized worldwide for its distinct dark color and creamy head.
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Most popular day trips
Dublin City Centre
Explore the vibrant capital with rich history and cultural sites.
Malahide
Visit the charming coastal town with a famous castle and marina.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
DART line
From Dublin Airport, take a bus or taxi to the city center, then use the DART train to Howth.
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Comments (10)
If you want the best views, go early morning before the day-trippers arrive. The cliff walk is stunning and peaceful with just a few other hikers.
Take the DART train from Dublin to Howth instead of driving, parking is limited and expensive. The train ride itself is pretty scenic too.
Howth has this chill coastal vibe that made me want to stay longer. The seafood is fresh but a bit pricey compared to other spots in Ireland.
Try the local seafood chowder at a small cafe near the lighthouse. It's cheaper and less crowded than the spots by the pier.
The fish and chips by the harbor were decent but not mind-blowing. If seafood is your thing, try a few spots rather than the first you see.