Why visit Howth?
Just outside of Dublin awaits endless port towns and small villages situated on the coastline. One of those places to explore is just a 30 minute train ride away. Welcome to Howth. This coastal town just North of Dublin overlooks the Dublin Bay and great Atlantic. Filled with seafood restaurants, coffee shops, hiking trails, golf courses, beaches, and quaint neighborhoods, it makes the perfect place to venture away for the day.
A Day in Howth:
Walk Around the Marina
What a scenic view! Just to the left of the train station awaits a serene harbor- the Howth marina. Walk along the two piers and watch as fishermen get ready to head out for their catch-of-the day. With views that extend out into the sea, you can enjoy the sights of the islands just off the coast. Within the marina, find it filled with colorful sailboats docked up, the true image of an ideal postcard or port town painting.
Hike the Howth Cliff Walk
One of the best ways to spend the day in Howth is to hike the Howth Cliff Walk. With four different trails to choose from, you can customize your adventure and how you want to spend the day. Each path brings you along the coast, overlooking the water, and providing some of the best views on the entire peninsula. All 4 trails have different lengths, ranging from 3.5-7.5 miles with moderate-hard difficulties, so you can choose the right path for you!
See the Baily Lighthouse
One of the views you will pass along the cliff walk is the Baily Lighthouse. With Dublin Bay right behind it, it makes for the one of the most stunning viewpoints on the cliff walk. This is also the point where the paths split, so no matter what one you chose, you get to enjoy the sights.
Just a 5 minute walk or so from where the paths breakaway from one another, make sure to rehydrate, warm up with a coffee, or grab a quick snack from Baily Brew Coffee. A little coffee truck situated just down the hill, it is the perfect pit stop. Not to mention, the owner, Elaine is a delight, and can help give you any advice you may be curious about while on the peninsula.
Visit the Howth Market
If you are visiting Howth on the weekend, be sure to stop at the Howth Market. Filled with local produce, freshly baked goods and pastries, and all types of knick-knacks and souvenirs, it is the perfect place to get a feel for how quaint this peninsula is and pick up some gifts for loved ones.
Enjoy Some Delicious Food
O’Connell’s
One of the best parts about being in a port town is all the fresh seafood! With restaurants lined up on the pier and all throughout the town, this is a sure spot to get your fix. One of my favorite seafood dishes, and a classic here in Ireland, is fish and chips. You really can’t go wrong with all that fried goodness wrapped into one plate. You’re also in Ireland- so it’s almost illegal not to have it at least once here, right? My fish and chips from O’Connell’s were crispy and delicious and I would recommend this place to anyone visiting. With a nice atmosphere, covered outdoor seating, fun cocktails and drinks, and yummy food, it makes for a great spot.
The Dog House Blue’s Tea Room Restaurant
The DogHouse is a cute, quirky place to find some bites and drinks here in Howth. From the outside, you may question what this place is all about. I mean, quirky definitely sums up the place as a whole. As you walk through however, this french-inspired restaurant, draped in Christmas lights and filled with red velvet furniture invites you in to relax and stay awhile. Not to mention the unexpected long pours you get per glass of wine sure makes for the perfect ending to a fun day. (or start to your adventure ahead- no judgement)!
Play a Round of Golf & Visit the Howth Castle
For those who are skilled enough to golf, or those who aren’t and are wanting to play in Ireland because why not!, there are a few options for you in Howth. Howth Golf Club is a wonderful course that gives you marvelous sea views of the Dublin Bay and spectacular play.
Deer Park Golf Club is also a great place to play. Offering an 18-hole course, a 9-hole and a Pitch & Putt, this place gives you plenty of options for any skill level. While you’re here, be sure to visit the Howth Castle as well, located within the course grounds. Guided tours are offered during the summer months, but feel free to check out full details on their website.
Whichever course you choose, you’re in for a great round!
Soak Up the Sun at a Beach
If you are so lucky to travel to Ireland in the warm months and find yourself on the peninsula on a sunny day, then the beach is just the ticket. Balscadden Bay Beach and Claremount Beach are two spots in the area, both enjoyable and have amazing views.
Best Way to Get to the Howth
Take the Train
The best option for transportation to Howth is to take the train. It is just a short, 30 minute ride and a great affordable option. You will want to take the Northbound DART train. You can catch this at Connelly Station, Pearse Station, or Tara Street Station. Once you arrive to the station, you can purchase your ticket at the machine. A round trip ticket will cost you €6.25. Double check the platform and departure times on the screens near the ticket counter, and you will be on your way!
Wrap Up: Dublin Day Trips- Howth
Howth is the perfect day trip from Dublin! With incredible views and lots of fun activities, it makes for one the best getaways out of the city. No matter how you spend your time in Howth, you will not be disappointed with your venture to this wonderful coastal town.
I’m going to visit there next time I’m in Ireland. Wonderful descriptions!
Love you
Mom
Wow, I want to go here! It’s gorgeous and your descriptions make it extra appealing Haley!!!! Love, love, love your adventures!!!!!