They call it Howth’s Summit, but there may be higher places on the peninsula at the north end of Dublin Bay. Never mind that technicality, because when you visit Howth Harbor, you really should veer off to the Summit and enjoy the view. Or have a pub meal there.
Howth’s Summit
Well, I’m glad you asked, and it all depends on the definition of the actual place. Generally speaking, this was the highest point reached by the trams running towards Howth. And although the trams are long gone (one is kept in the National Transportation Museum on the grounds of Howth Castle), the name stuck. Today the Summit is a stop for the Dublin bus.
And it has the Cumbre shops at the bus stop, the Cumbre Inn nearby (of which more anon), and the Cumbre car park (poorly signposted). Which would actually be the highest place. And from which you can see some even higher places that are still parts of Howth. Parking is the main reason most people come here… because just a few meters of the walk will give you great views of Dublin Bay and the well located and very old fashioned Baily lighthouse.
Why you should go to Howth Summit
By sight. Pure and simple. You can also start hiking the cliffs a bit here, it’s true, but the great view is what most people head for at Howth Summit. Which makes one thing pretty clear: if it’s dark or thick fog, Howth Summit might not be the best idea.
It is true, a foggy day at Howth Summit can be quite an experience, walk down the path from the parking lot for a few dozen meters and you will think that you are literally in the middle of nowhere, in an almost ethereal realm. Just make sure you stay on track, otherwise you may find yourself slipping and sliding down the steep slopes and cliffs (not always a lethal experience, but very uncomfortable to say the least).
As for the night … grab a torch, otherwise you’ll almost be guaranteed a fall. And get ready for some lights in the distance, nothing more. Except for some unusual evening activities in the parking lot.
So in general, go in broad daylight and on a good day. Oh, and try to avoid sunny weekends as you will most likely not find parking here.
And the local attractions are …
… few. There is the landscape, there is the view, there is the Baily lighthouse. And there’s a strange concrete structure near the entrance to the car park, which may be of interest to the techie. As it was the basis for the first radar used by Dublin Airport. In reality, many flights heading to Dublin Airport still fly through the Howth Peninsula.
The old streetcar track might also be interesting, although the line was closed in 1959. The Great Northern Railway’s Hill of Howth streetcar made its way uphill from Sutton. And even though the tracks have long been raised, the old platform is still in use as a walking route, part of the recommended Howth Cliff Path Loop. However, it is better to start near the boardwalk.
The Summit Inn
The Summit Inn might also be a good stopover idea – the house was originally built in the 1800s as a thatched-roof cabin. Although it has remained in the family throughout the generations, it has been extensively rebuilt. But not enough to lose its charm. A traditional bar with a grass fire awaits the thirsty homeless, and there is food for those feeling a little hungry. Including fresh fish, landed at Howth Harbor.
On a clear day, the view from the front can encompass not only the eye of Ireland and Lambay, but also (in the distance) even the Morne Mountains as they roll out to sea in County Down.
Howth Summit Essentials
- Driver Instructions : Howth Summit can be reached from Howth Harbor via Abbey Street. Coming from Sutton, at the junction follow the signs for the ‘Scenic Route’ towards Howth; This will take you to the Summit and then to the town. There is normally ample parking at the Summit, sunny weekends in summer are the exception.
- Hiker Instructions : Howth Summit is the highest point on the Howth Cliff Path Loop, best started at Howth Train Station.
- Public Transport : Howth Train Station (DART Service Terminal) is quite far away, but there is a Dublin bus stop right at the Summit, a short walk from the Summit car park.
