Discover the Coastal Charms of Howth Ireland

Nestled on the northeastern coast of County Dublin, Ireland, lies the picturesque fishing village of Howth. It is situated on the Howth Peninsula, which extends into the Irish Sea, offering stunning views and a rich maritime history.

Just a short train ride away from Dublin's city center, this charming destination offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. It's a pretty small town so I don't recommend staying here.

Making a quick little trip by train and exploring for a couple of hours is plenty of time in Howth.

The village itself is relatively small but is known for its picturesque harbor, cliff walks, and fresh seafood.

In terms of size, Howth covers approximately 6 square miles with a population of around 9,000 people. It's quaint charm makes it especially popular with tourists due to its natural beauty and accessibility from Dublin.

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Explore Howth with a Walking Tour

Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing day by the sea, Howth has something to enchant every visitor.

Don't worry about not having a car either. It's a very walkable little town. We took the train from Dublin and walked from the station to the downtown area.


The centerpiece of the area is the Howth Head Peninsula, a little paradise that offers breathtaking coastal walks and panoramic views of the Irish Sea.

The most famous trail, the Howth Cliff Walk, takes you along the edge of the cliffs, treating you to awe-inspiring vistas of the coastline and beyond.

Keep an eye out for local wildlife such as seals, seabirds, and even dolphins, which occasionally make appearances in the waters below.

Also, the sunsets here in Howth are amazing!

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Experience the Food in Howth

No visit to Howth would be complete without indulging in its fresh seafood offerings.

The village's fishing heritage is evident in its bustling fish markets and a wide array of seafood restaurants and cafes.

Treat yourself to a traditional fish and chips meal or your favorite seafood!

Many eateries also offer outdoor seating, allowing you to savor your meal while enjoying stunning sea views.

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Visit the Howth Harbour Lighthouse

Howth Harbour Lighthouse, also known as the Howth East Pier Lighthouse, is a prominent feature of Howth Harbour in Dublin, Ireland. Here are some details about it:

It serves as a navigational aid for boats entering and leaving the harbor, guiding them safely through the waters. The lighthouse itself is a compact structure with a traditional cylindrical design, painted in distinctive red and white bands.

Access to the Howth Harbour Lighthouse is free of charge. You can walk along the East Pier to reach the lighthouse, enjoying views of the harbor and the Irish Sea along the way. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists and offers great views at the top!

The East Pier, including access to the lighthouse, is open to the public year-round. However, the exact opening hours can vary depending on the season and weather conditions, but generally, you can explore during daylight hours.

Construction of the lighthouse dates back to the early 19th century and was constructed in 1817.

It is a relatively small lighthouse, standing at approximately 23 feet tall. The structure is made of stone and has a lantern room at the top where the light is housed. Originally, it was lit by oil lamps and later converted to electricity.

Learn more about the Howth Lighthouse here!
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If you're feeling adventurous, consider taking a boat tour to Ireland's Eye, a small island just off the coast of Howth.

The island is a nature reserve and offers an opportunity for hiking and birdwatching.

Getting to Howth

From Dublin, transportation to Howth is convenient and easy.

Simply hop on the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train from the city center, and within 30 minutes, you'll arrive at this enchanting coastal destination.

The train journey itself offers scenic views, setting the tone for a delightful day ahead.

Be sure you know when the last train leaves for Dublin. You don't want to get strandid!

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