🌊 Howth Peninsula Guide –Coastal Village & Cliff Walk Guide
Introduction
Just 30 minutes from Dublin City, Howth Ireland is a charming fishing village known for its cliff walks, seafood restaurants, and harbor views. Sitting on the Howth Head peninsula, it combines dramatic sea cliffs with historic landmarks like Howth Castle and vibrant Howth Village.
Whether you're after a hike, a boat trip to Ireland's Eye, or simply the best fish and chips in Dublin, Howth is a must-see on any Dublin itinerary.
Top Things to Do in Howth
Howth Cliff Walk (Green Route)
The most popular attraction, with panoramic views across Dublin Bay. Options range from short Howth cliff path loops (1–2 hours) to longer hikes (3–4 hours).
Howth Harbor & Lighthouse
A picturesque spot lined with cafés, fishmongers, and boat tours.
Ireland's Eye Boat Tour
Take a short cruise to see seabird colonies, seals, and the island's Martello Tower.
Howth Castle & Gardens
One of Ireland's oldest occupied castles, dating back to the 12th century.
Howth Beaches
Relax at Claremont Beach or Balscadden Bay Beach.
Golf at Howth Golf Club
Play a round with views stretching over Dublin Bay.
Howth Market
Browse stalls for crafts, baked goods, and Irish treats at weekends.
Accommodation in Howth
While Howth has fewer hotels than Dublin City, there are great Howth hotels, B&Bs, and Airbnbs:
👉 Many visitors also choose Dublin hotels near Howth (20–30 min by train) for more options.
Where to Eat in Howth
Howth is famous for seafood and fish & chips:
Beshoff Bros Howth
– iconic fish & chips shop
Aqua Restaurant
– fine dining with panoramic sea views over Howth Harbor
King Sitric Restaurant
– seafood institution with local oysters and lobster
Octopussy's Seafood Tapas
– casual dining, very popular for fresh seafood platters
The Abbey Tavern
– historic pub offering traditional Irish food and live music
Howth Weather & Best Time to Visit
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Warmest, ideal for cliff walks, but busiest
Spring & Autumn
Mild weather, fewer crowds, great for hiking
Winter
Quieter but often windy and dramatic along the cliffs
👉 Always check the Howth Ireland weather before setting out — conditions can change quickly near the sea.
Getting to Howth
- DART Train: From Dublin city centre to Howth DART Station (~30 minutes)
- By Car: 30–40 minutes from central Dublin
- BBy Bus: Dublin Bus routes also connect to Howth Village
👉 Want to combine Howth with Dublin's top attractions?
FAQs About Howth
Is Howth, Ireland worth visiting?
Absolutely — Howth is one of the most beautiful coastal areas near Dublin. From the cliff walks and sea views to the seafood restaurants and lively village, it's a perfect day trip from the city.
How long does it take to walk around Howth?
Exploring Howth Village and Harbor can take 1–2 hours, but if you add the Howth Cliff Walk, allow 3–4 hours for the full loop.
What is Howth famous for?
Howth is best known for its dramatic cliffs, seafood, fishing harbor, and Howth Castle. It's also a popular filming location, with Netflix's Bodkin shot here.
How long is the DART ride from Dublin to Howth?
The DART from Dublin city centre to Howth DART Station takes around 30 minutes.
What is the most beautiful area of Dublin?
Many visitors consider Howth Head and its cliff paths among the most beautiful parts of Dublin, with sweeping views of Dublin Bay.
What to do in Howth for a day?
Spend the morning on the Howth Cliff Walk, have lunch at one of the seafood restaurants, explore Howth Castle or take a boat to Ireland's Eye, and finish with a stroll through the harbor.
Which Netflix show was filmed in Howth?
The 2024 Netflix series Bodkin was filmed in Howth and along the cliffs, showcasing the dramatic Irish coastline.
Was Bodkin filmed in Howth?
Yes — much of the Netflix series Bodkin was filmed in and around Howth Village and cliffs.
Is Bodkin a real place in Ireland?
No — the show is fictional, but it was inspired by real Irish towns, with filming taking place in Howth and West Cork.
Is Howth worth a day trip from Dublin?
Yes — Howth is one of the easiest and most rewarding day trips from Dublin thanks to its mix of hiking, seafood, history, and scenery.
How do I get to the Howth Cliffs?
From Howth DART Station, it's a 5–10 minute walk uphill to the cliff walk trailhead.
Can you Uber from Dublin to Howth?
Yes, but it's more common (and cheaper) to take the DART train directly to Howth.
How long is the Howth Cliff Walk?
The short loop takes 1.5–2 hours, while the full loop around Howth Head can take 3–4 hours.
Is Howth Cliff Walk worth it?
Definitely — it's considered one of the best coastal hikes in Ireland, with breathtaking sea views.
Is Howth Castle worth visiting?
Yes — while the castle itself is privately owned, the gardens are open, and the grounds are beautiful to explore.
How much is a train ride from Dublin to Howth?
A standard DART ticket costs around €3–€6 depending on your starting station.
Visiting Howth as a Day Trip
Many visitors combine Howth with other Dublin attractions or make it part of a coastal day trip.
👉 Make the most of your time with a private driver.
Discover Howth's stunning cliffs, harbor, and coastal beauty in comfort.
Email: info@dublindaytrips.com
Private Howth day trips from Dublin