A Complete Guide To Howth, Ireland (2025)

Howth is a great escape from the bustling city of Dublin. Weather you are in need of some nature or an alternative the the Cliff of Moher on the west coast of Ireland, Howth Cliff Walk is accessible and beautiful. This guide to Howth will cover everything you need to know for the perfect escape from Dublin.

This post may contain affiliate links - if you purchase a tour or hotel via Daisies Abroad we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you

How To Get To Howth

Howth is super easy to get to from Dublin! If you are not renting a car in Ireland than the best way to get to Howth is DART. (Dublin area rapid transit)

There are three DART stations in Dublin. (Dublin Connolly, Dublin Heuston, and Dublin Pearse) They are all very easy to navigate so just go to the one you are closest too. I went out of the Dublin Heuston Station and bought tickets at the train station.

The roundtrip tickets where only four euros!

Howth was the last stop on the DART line so it is very easy to know when to get off the train.

Getting to the cliff walk from the train station is very easy, and walkable. Technically the Cliff Walk starts at the DART station, but you wont feel like you are on a hike until you see nature. There will be signs pointing you in the direction of the cliff walk. It is about a mile walk to the start of the trail.

If you don't want to deal with public transit or renting a car you can do a day trip tour from Dublin to Howth.

Howth, Ireland Safety

When I went to Howth Cliff walk there was practically no one else on the trail, which is a good and a bad thing, especially if you are alone. The cliff is steep and there are no rails so you really need to watch your step. If you are with no one else this could be dangerous.

Avoid doing the Howth Cliff walk if it is rainy, the paths will get slippery and you could fall. The picture above is a great example of how close you will be to the edge.

Bring plenty layers, water, good sneakers or hiking shoes and watch your step on the Cliff Walk.

Even though the walk is very straight forward, I would recommend downloading the trail on Google Maps before you start the hike just in case you get lost and loose connection.

Howth Cliff Walk Map

Howth Cliff Walk Trails

There are 4 trails you can choose from while hiking Howth.

Bog Of Frogs Loop

The Bog Of Frogs Loop is the most difficult loop.

Start point: Howth Railway Station

Distance: 7.45 miles (12 km)

Average Time: 4 hours

Howth Head Walk

The Howth Head walk is an easy hike.

Start point: The start of the trail (near the parking lot)

Distance: 3.7 miles (6 km)

Average Time: 1 hour

Black Linn Loop

The Black Linn Loop is a moderate to easy hike.

Start Point: DART

Distance: 5 miles (8km)

Average Time: 2 - 3 hours

Tramline Loop

The Tramline Loop is a moderate to easy hike.

Start Point: DART

Distance: 4.3 miles (7km)

Average Time: 1 - 2 hours

What To Do In Howth

Explore Howth Castle

Located just a few steps from the downtown area, Howth Castle is a must on a day-trip to Howth. This captivating castle dates back to 1177 and is home to stunning gardens, beautiful rooms, a cooking school, golfing, and more. This castle will make you feel like you are in a period film.

Comb Through Howth Market

I loved Howth Market! This market is located just a few steps from DART and is home to local vendors selling fresh produce, jewelry, Irish wool sweaters, and more. This lovely little market is the perfect spot to pick up an authentic Irish souvenir.

Do a Boat Tour To Ireland's Eye

I didn't get the chance to do the boat tour to Irelands Eye, however I definitely would have if I had the time. This tour will take you around the the waters of Howth (you will see puffins, incredible views of the Howth Cliffs from the boat, a they will take you around Irelands eye).

Visit The Seals In Howth Harbour

Walking around Howth Harbour is non negotiable while in the seaside village. In the harbour you can spot adorable seals, that are surprisingly quite friendly - unlike those in Cape Cod. Anyway, there are amazing seafood restaurants all around the harbour, so you get the best in both worlds like Hannah Montana.

St. Mary’s Abbey Ruins

Just a few steps from Howth Harbour is St. Mary's Abbey Ruins. These ruins date back to the 11th century and was a Norse Church (as vikings lived in Howth at the time). The views of Howth Harbour, history, and peaceful atmosphere make St. Mary's Abbey Ruins a worthy spot to visit in Howth.

Best Hotels In Howth

Most people will stay in Dublin and then drive or take a train to Howth. Although if you are looking for somewhere quiet to stay near Dublin, Howth is a lovely little village.

Luxury Howth Hotel - King Sitric - Located on the water you will find the adorable King Sitric bed and breakfast. At King Sitric you will find comfortable rooms, ocean views, a restaurant, and more.

Middle Range Howth Hotel - Howth Village Apartment - The Howth Village Apartment is right in the downtown area next to the Howth Cliff Walk and plenty of food options. At The Howth Village Apartment you will find a restaurant, clean rooms, views of the water, and more.

Budget Howth Hotel - Marine Hotel - The Marine Hotel is a adorable little cottage located right next to Howth Cliff Walk. At The Marine Hotel you will find cozy rooms and breakfast served daily.

A Guide To Howth, Ireland Wrap Up

Howth is seriously such a great option for a day trip from Dublin or for a peaceful weekend escape in Ireland. We hope that this guide to Howth, Ireland will help you plan the best trip ever! If you liked this post I think that you will love my ultimate guide to Dublin and my guide to Galway. If you are visiting Dublin this fall - A Minimalist Dublin Fall Packing List.

Happy Travels,

Daisy