The best day trip to Dublin may involve a quick trip to Howth, a picturesque fishing village in the north of Dublin Bay. Howth has lighthouses, a castle, an old abbey, and some great hiking trails.
Howth is the last stop on the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit System) line linking the city center to the coast. It makes sense, then, that it is a favorite spot for Dubliners who need to get out of the ‘big smoke’, as Dublin is called, and breathe in some fresh sea air.
The city, located around the port with two long piers, will not disappoint. Howth offers natural beauty along with Irish history, great food, and an abundance of pubs. If you have at least half a day to spare to visit Dublin, Howth would make a great day trip.
Howth Essentials
Driver Instructions
Howth can be reached by following the road from Connolly Station (Amiens Street) and the Five Lamps, passing Bull Island and entering Sutton. At the Sutton Crossroads, the direct route and the longest scenic route are marked with signs – the former will take you straight to Howth Harbor, the latter will take you there via a longer drive through Howth Summit. There are some parking lots on the Summit and in Howth Harbor. Spaces can be tight everywhere on the weekends. ( Map )
Public transport to Howth
Take the train to Howth Train Station (terminus for DART service) or a Dublin bus, with stops at Howth Harbor and Howth Summit. DART is usually much faster.
Weather tips
Unless it is a very sunny day, always wear rain gear and a sweater. Sea winds can be cold and wet. Avoid the East Pier and Howth Cliff Path Loop in stormy and very wet conditions.
Things to see and do in Howth
Howth is known for being a charming seaside town with welcoming residents and interesting historical sites.
Baily’s Lighthouse, Ireland’s latest lighthouse to be automated, stands in a stunning location on the south-eastern part of Howth Head in Dublin Bay. Built in 1814, Baily is one of Ireland’s most photographed lighthouses on the east coast. The first lighthouse on this site was built around 1667 by Sir Robert Reading. While you can’t drive to the lighthouse, in good weather it’s a beautiful walk along the cliffs to get a little closer.
Howth Castle is not on the main tourist maps because the castle, originally opened in 1235, is still a private residence and is generally not open to the public. On the other hand, Howth Castle has observed an “open door policy” for centuries. So you can go up the unit and look outside, which has sections that represent many ages of rebuilding. In spring, the castle gardens are filled with colorful rhododendrons. To get there, follow the signs to the Deer Park Hotel.
Howth Cliff Path Loop is a hiking trail that provides the opportunity to hike up a fairly safe cliff above Dublin Bay. It is a good hike of around two hours on marked trails in fairly good condition. The most convenient starting point is at the train station in Howth. From there, just follow the green arrows on the posted bookmarks. Note that there are four loops that start at the station.
Howth Harbor Lighthouse protects the harbor opening. Not only was it a lighthouse, but it also had a strong circular wall, enclosing the position of a weapon. Looking around the area, you will see several defensive fortresses from the same period, the Martello Towers. The lighthouse served as a navigational aid until 1982, when a smaller, more modern light was built.
Howth Summit is one of Dublin’s favorite lookouts. When visiting Howth, take the detour to the summit and enjoy the view and eat at the Summit Inn, a 19th-century pub serving local seafood. There is a parking lot and the cliff walking trail is accessible.
King Sitric’s Restaurant, right on the harbor, is known for the fresh seafood brought in daily from Howth Pier. The adjacent B&B is a great place to spend the night and listen to the waves crashing against the shore.
The National Transport Museum at Howth Castle exhibits a collection of vintage vehicles, many of them with connections to Dublin. This is Ireland’s only comprehensive collection of commercial vehicles and services. The collection includes rare and unique vehicles, including the original Dublin Fire Brigade trucks.
Santa Maria Abbey originally served as a Viking shrine. Often simply called “Howth Abbey”, the buildings are situated halfway up the hill in the center of town. You can access the abbey by walking down Abbey Street. When you get to Abbey Tavern, look to the right and you will find a narrow alley of stone steps that lead further uphill. At the top of the steps, turn right. The door to the Abbey of Santa Maria should be easy to find. There is a great view from this hill, as well as tombs and abbey walls to photograph.
Planning your visit to Howth
Howth can be a pleasant stop on a driving tour of the area or a multi-day getaway with a B&B stay at King Sitric’s. At an absolute minimum, plan for an hour if you just want a booster walk along the pier, two hours if you want to add some fish and chips, and half a day for the cliff hike. Reserve a full day if you want to explore some of Howth’s attractions.
On summer weekends, Howth can get very crowded, so even finding a convenient parking lot will take up some of your time. Weekdays are generally quieter. If you don’t like crowds, avoid holidays between noon and 6pm as Howth will be packed with visitors.
This charming seaside town can be enjoyed in any weather by wearing the right clothing. Bring layers, as the Dublin Bay wind can be quite chilly even on sunny days, and horizontally wind-driven rain will soak up a light jacket in no time. You’ll want to do things indoors and have a good meal in a cozy pub when the weather is stormy. Good weather is time to get out and hike, so bring your hiking gear.
