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Day trip to Howth

  • Dublin, County Dublin, Ireland

Last updated: 13 March, 2024

Sitting on a peninsula north of Dublin Bay, the beautiful suburb of Howth began life as a small fishing village and is home to a castle, a pretty harbour, scenic walking trails, seafood restaurants, quaint pubs and a weekend market.

If you’ve had your fill of Guinness, hop on the local DART railway and instead drink in Dublin’s wonderful rugged coastline during the pleasant 20-minute scenic ride to get there.

While you’re there 

There’s a lovely, fairly easy 2-hour coastal hill walk to Bailey Lighthouse at Howth Head, that rewards with fine views of the surrounding coastline. Start in the centre, skirt the harbour and continue up onto the clifftops.  And don’t miss one of Dublin’s finest seafood restaurants, Aqua, which treats diners to freshly caught produce and stunning views of the coast.

Boat trips depart from Howth harbour to Ireland’s Eye, a small island and bird sanctuary with the ruins of a Martello tower and an 8th-century church.

Logistics

Price: Free
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 4+
When: All year around

Getting there & doing it

You can pick up a return or one-day ticket at a number of DART stations in the city centre – the main stations are Tara and Pearse (south of the river) and Connolly (north of the river). These link you to stations in each of the villages along Dublin’s east coast. 

When to do it

Trains run to and from Howth year-round with a regular daily service. The first train leaves around 7am, last train home is around 10pm. 

Who to go with: organised tours

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Our selection of the best Viator tours of this attraction or activity

  • Dublin

Embark on the Dublin Coastal Hike & Pints & Puppies Tour for an unforgettable day of adventure along the mesmerizing Irish coastline. Join a Local & their Dog, as they guide you through hidden trails, revealing tales of local lore and maritime history. The rugged cliffs, Irish Sea and quaint village unfold like a living canvas, creating a picturesque backdrop. Dive into tales of Viking & Norman invasions, unraveling the mysteries of a 700-year-old castle that echoes with centuries of history. Immerse yourself in Irish culture as we wander through the ancient ruins of St. Mary's Abbey, built in 1042 & explore the well-kept secrets of Hidden Howth. Cap off this adventure at a local Irish pub, where a well-deserved complimentary pint awaits. Reflect on the day's exploits in the cozy ambiance, surrounded by newfound friends and the echoes of Ireland's coastal legacy. This is not just a tour; it's a time-traveling odyssey infused with nature, history, & the warm spirit of the Emerald Isle.

Price €45

Min age 12

Rating 4.98 / 5 [536 ratings]

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  • Dublin

Cycle to the most breath taking views on the east coast of Ireland and all the outdoor beauty of Dublin on a dynamic e-bike adventure. Our ebikes are great fun and take you on tarmac and off road trails.  We mix the insider stories of this truly amazing peninsula while taking you to unrivaled panoramic views away from the crowds surrounded by nature and beauty. Stop for commentary, questions and photo ops at highlights such as the Summit, the Baily Lighhouse, Howth Cliffs, Martello Towers and others along the way.                                            Howth Harbour  Howth Castle Strand Road Sutton Martello Towers Red Rock Sutton the Ben of Howth the Summit Howth Cliffs Baily Lighthouse & the views!

Price €59

Min age 16

Rating 5 / 5 [416 ratings]

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  • Dublin

Voted Trip Advisor Best of the Best. Explore Dublin's best kept secret on the only guided hike that visits the spectacular south facing paths and cliffs overlooking Dublin Bay. Explore the secret paths and trails where only local guides can take you. Immerse yourself in nature on the charming Howth Peninsula, a treasure in the Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere. An exciting and gnarly coastal adventure in any season. Feel a real connection with the land and people. Wander through magical woodland in the footsteps of the ancient people of Ireland and feel a connection with the past and present. Spot the ancient Irish goat herd along the trails, visiting hidden beaches, smugglers caves and panoramic views. Finish off the day enjoying some famous Howth hospitality.

Price €49

Min age 12

Rating 4.97 / 5 [261 ratings]

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  • Dublin

Discover all the outdoor beauty of Dublin hiking to all the highlights in Howth and panoramic views with local guides while surrounded by nature and wildlife. Immerse yourself in the amazing atmosphere and flavours of this ancient and famous Dublin village on our Howth hiking tour while hearing about the history which inspired many famous writers, artists and our local rock stars! Explore the charming harbour and historic, picturesque coastal village. All our guides are Howth natives who share their own unique insight. Learn about our very own Game of Thrones, Howth Castle. Follow the secret paths and trails through the woodlands and heathlands to views that HG Wells described as the most beautiful in the World. Walk through time in the footsteps of an astonishing history to breathtaking views on the famous Howth cliff walk. Stroll back to Howth village and enjoy Howth’s famous hospitality in one of the many restaurants, cafes and pubs.

Price €39

Min age 12

Rating 4.97 / 5 [203 ratings]

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