Why visit Howth?

Just North of Dublin City Centre is the charming village of Howth. This idyllic fishing village is the perfect day trip destination from Dublin,  easily accessible by both bus and commuter train (DART). Here are three great reasons to visit Howth.

• Cliff Walk: Across from the train station is a map of Howth and its walking trails. The cliff walk to the summit of Howth head is stunning, with views of Ireland’s Eye, Dublin Bay and Lambay Lighthouse. Stop at the summit pub for a pint of Guinness or a hot port or go for a longer 2-3 hour ramble over the rugged landscape and forget you’re just 15 minutes from Dublin city Centre.

• Walk the pier. Howth Harbour is delightful and you can enjoy a more leisurely walk along the east or west pier to enjoy great views of Howth Village and Ireland’s Eye. If you’re lucky the resident seals will be playing by the east pier, so watch out for one of their heads popping out of the water as they say hello to visitors.

• You guessed it, some of the best seafood in Dublin can be enjoyed in Howth! Walk around this working fishing village to explore the range of food on offer. If you have time be sure to call into Octopussy’s Seafood Tapas Restaurant.  Octopussy’s provides a slice of Mediterranean life for our locals and a taste of home for our visitors. We specialise in seafood tapas, with fresh fish and shellfish supplied daily. For those of you who are not fish eaters – do not fret. We have a selection of meat and vegitarian options as well. We are open 7 days a week from 12.30pm until 9.00pm except Saturdays, we are open until 10.00 pm. To make a reservation, please call us on 01 8390822

Getting there:

Hop on the DART from the city-centre to Howth DART Station, or take the 31/a bus from Talbot Street. Alternatively if you are coming from south Dublin, consider Dublin Bay Cruises which departs from Dun Laoghaire, and brings you on a watery journey of Dublin’s stunning bay.

OTHER Things to do

Conveniently located beside the DART station, Howth Market is home to an array of Irish crafts, delicate handmade jewellery, and vintage antiques; perfect for gift shopping. While you’re there, be sure to sample the wide selection of organic foods on offer, like olives, cheeses, nuts and of course, delicious chocolate and cupcakes.

Less than a ten-minute walk from the market, you’ll find Howth Castle and Grounds. Immerse yourself in history and take in the beautiful surrounding gardens, which are home to a ten-metre high hedge and the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey. Also in the castle, you’ll find restored Georgian kitchens, where cookery school The Kitchen in the Castle host half-day and evening classes.