
Howth Head
Dramatic cliffs, sea views, and a charming harbor village just a short train ride from Dublin.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Howth Head
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic cliffs, sea views, and a charming harbor village just a short train ride from Dublin.
"The views from this spot are just amazing, you have the sea and howth from one side, and beautiful meadows from the other."

🎯 Take the DART Train
Skip the expensive Uber and take the DART for an affordable, scenic ride to Howth .
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cliff path can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for the Howth Head hike .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Howth Cliff Walk
Howth Peninsula
Iconic coastal trail with breathtaking sea views, rugged cliffs, and a lighthouse.

Howth Harbour Seals
Howth Harbour
Watch playful seals basking and swimming near the fishing boats.

Ireland's Eye
Off the coast of Howth
A small island nature reserve, home to puffins during nesting season.

Howth Castle and Estate
Howth Peninsula
Explore the historic grounds and gardens of this picturesque castle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Howth Head
Best Time for the Walk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Take the DART Train
Skip the expensive Uber and take the DART for an affordable, scenic ride to Howth.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cliff path can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for the Howth Head hike.
📸 Capture Stunning Views
Bring your camera for panoramic vistas of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea.
🐟 Enjoy Fresh Seafood
Howth is famous for its fish and chips and seafood restaurants by the harbor.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Take the DART Train
Skip the expensive Uber and take the DART for an affordable, scenic ride to Howth.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The cliff path can be uneven; good walking shoes are a must for the Howth Head hike.
📸 Capture Stunning Views
Bring your camera for panoramic vistas of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea.
🐟 Enjoy Fresh Seafood
Howth is famous for its fish and chips and seafood restaurants by the harbor.
🐦 Spot Puffins
Take a boat trip to Ireland's Eye in summer to see nesting puffins.
🚶♀️ Choose Your Trail
The green trail is about 1.5 hours, but shorter or longer options exist.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Howth Head is celebrated for its stunning coastal scenery and accessible cliff walks, offering breathtaking views of the Irish Sea and Dublin Bay. Visitors love the charming harbor village, the chance to see seals, and the delicious fresh seafood. While generally well-regarded, some find the initial walk to the main cliff path a bit long or urban.
"Takes about 40 minutes by foot from Howth train station. It’s not really a hike but rather an uphill walk through a more quiet street with a few homes. Only the last 10 minutes are really a hike. Is totally doable in approximately 2 hours, if you are in Dublin for a day trip. We visited in october and the weather was fine.
The view on top is worth it!!"
sar din (rana)
"A coastal peninsula offering some of Dublin's most accessible and stunning cliff walks. The trails provide breathtaking views of the Irish Sea, the city skyline, and the surrounding islands. The charming village below is famous for its fresh seafood and busy harbor."
Arman Khachatryan
"Howth Head in Ireland offers stunning coastal cliffs, panoramic views of the Irish Sea, and historic lighthouses. Hikers enjoy scenic cliff paths with ancient ruins, while the charming fishing village below boasts quaint shops and delicious seafood eateries. It's a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking Ireland's rugged coastal beauty. Highly recommend for all visitors!"
EB
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended way is to take the DART train from Dublin city center directly to Howth station. It's a quick and scenic journey, taking around 30 minutes and costing significantly less than a taxi or Uber. From the station, it's a pleasant walk to the harbor and the start of the cliff paths.
Driving is possible, and there are car parks available, such as the Howth Cliff Walk car park. However, parking can be limited, especially during peak times, and the DART is often a more convenient and stress-free option for visitors.
Yes, several bus routes serve Howth from Dublin city center, offering another public transport option. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information on routes and times.
The DART train journey from Dublin city center to Howth typically takes about 30 minutes. The entire trip, including walking from the station, can be done within an hour.
While the main harbor area is accessible, the cliff paths themselves can be challenging due to uneven terrain and inclines. Some sections of the Howth Head walk are described as mostly flat, but the full experience might be difficult for those with significant mobility issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Howth Cliff Walk is free to access. You can enjoy the stunning scenery and hiking trails without any admission fee.
Howth Head and its cliff paths are open year-round, accessible at any time. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
Yes, there are boat tours available from Howth Harbour that go around the coast and to Ireland's Eye, which is a great way to see the cliffs from a different perspective and spot wildlife like puffins.
While the grounds of Howth Castle and Estate are often accessible, specific entry to the castle itself may be restricted or require a fee depending on current access policies. It's best to check their official website for the most current information.
It is highly recommended to book puffin tours to Ireland's Eye in advance, especially during the peak season (summer), as they can sell out.
🎫 🚶♀️ Onsite Experience
The duration varies depending on the route you choose. The popular green trail takes about 1.5 hours to complete. Some visitors find the walk from the station to the start of the more intense hike takes about 40 minutes.
The Howth Head hike is generally considered moderate. While some parts are uphill and can be uneven, it's often described as more of an uphill walk than a strenuous hike, making it doable for most fitness levels.
The views from the top of Howth Head are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of Dublin Bay, the Irish Sea, and the surrounding coastline. You'll also see the Bailey Lighthouse and potentially Ireland's Eye.
Absolutely! Howth village is renowned for its fresh seafood, with numerous restaurants and pubs offering delicious fish and chips and other local specialties.
Yes, it's very common to see seals in Howth Harbour, especially near the fishing boats. They are often quite active and a highlight for many visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire cliff path offers incredible photo opportunities. Key spots include the Bailey Lighthouse, panoramic viewpoints overlooking Dublin Bay, and the rugged coastline itself.
Late afternoon, during the golden hour, provides beautiful lighting for landscape photography. Sunrise can also be stunning, though access might be limited before daylight.
Drone usage regulations can vary. While some aerial footage exists, it's crucial to check current local bylaws and aviation authority rules before flying a drone in the area to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife like puffins or seals. A polarizing filter can enhance the sea and sky colors.
Yes, the seals are a popular subject. Be mindful of their space and avoid disturbing them. A zoom lens can be helpful for getting close-up shots without getting too near.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For the cliff walk, consider the shorter, flatter sections or the green trail which is manageable for most families. Pack snacks and drinks, and be sure to stop for the famous fish and chips in the village – a guaranteed hit with kids. If your children are interested in wildlife, a boat trip to Ireland's Eye to see puffins (in season) can be an unforgettable experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, pack your own lunch and snacks to enjoy with a view. While the seafood in Howth is delicious, it can be pricier. However, you can still find reasonably priced fish and chips from takeaway spots in the harbor area. Many visitors find that a day trip to Howth can be done for under €20 per person.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
After a bracing walk, enjoy a cozy meal at one of Howth's many charming restaurants, perhaps sharing some fresh seafood. The peaceful atmosphere of the village and the dramatic natural beauty of the headland create an ideal setting for a romantic escape from the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Howth Cliff Walk Experience
Visitors can choose from various routes, with the green trail being a common choice, taking approximately 1.5 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll encounter the iconic Howth Head Lighthouse (also known as Bailey Lighthouse), a picturesque landmark that adds to the dramatic scenery. The walk offers a sense of remoteness and natural beauty, making it a perfect day trip for those seeking outdoor activity and breathtaking landscapes.
Many travelers rave about the accessibility and the sheer beauty of the walk, with some calling it the most beautiful place in Dublin. The combination of sea air, rugged cliffs, and panoramic vistas makes the Howth Head hike a truly memorable experience, often described as a must-do for anyone visiting the area.
Wildlife Encounters in Howth
For birdwatchers, a boat trip to Ireland's Eye, a small island nature reserve just off the coast, is highly recommended, especially during the summer months. This is when puffins nest on the island, offering a unique opportunity to see these charismatic birds in their natural habitat. Boat tours depart regularly from Howth Harbour, providing a close-up view of the island and its avian inhabitants.
Beyond the seals and puffins, the coastal environment supports a variety of other seabirds. The Howth Head walk itself offers chances to spot gulls and other coastal species as you traverse the cliffs. The rich marine life also contributes to the vibrant ecosystem, making Howth a rewarding destination for nature lovers.
Howth Village: Charm and Cuisine
Howth is particularly famous for its seafood. Visitors are spoiled for choice with numerous restaurants and pubs lining the harbor, serving up incredibly fresh fish and chips, oysters, and other local delicacies. It's the perfect place to refuel after a hike, enjoying a hearty meal with views of the sea. Many reviewers highlight the quality and freshness of the seafood as a major draw.
Beyond the culinary delights, the village offers quaint shops and a relaxed pace of life. It's a place where you can wander, soak in the local atmosphere, and perhaps pick up a souvenir. The combination of natural beauty, wildlife, and a vibrant village makes Howth a complete day trip destination.

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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit