Idyllic seaside town just north of Dublin you absolutely need to visit

Many a traveller landing in Dublin might spot an intriguing stretch of land jutting out into the sea , marked by cliffs , a charming harbour, and tiny figures ambling along the promenade. If you're not acquainted, that's the coastal town of Howth, situated just north of Dublin city. When mapping out your journey to the Irish capital , this spot deserves a place on your itinerary.

Howth is a compact yet lively seaside town in North County Dublin, on the fringes of the city. It offers a delightful visit for all types of tourists visiting Ireland, particularly those who enjoy seafood, cliffside vistas, sea swimming, scenic walks, and fascinating local history .

This coastal town boasts the finest seaweed, surfing and seafood in Ireland. Here is your guide to exploring the stunning coastal town of Howth in North Dublin.

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Getting to Howth

The simplest way to reach Howth from Dublin city centre is by hopping on the DART train from Pearse Station, Tara Street Station, or Connolly Station.

It's also accessible via the H3 bus route from Dublin city centre.

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Leisurely strolls and grand walks

For a laid-back stroll, perhaps accompanied by a bag of chips or a delicious ice cream, there's Howth Promenade and Howth Pier. Exit the train station and turn left towards the village, where you'll immediately see the harbour and walkway.

For those seeking a more challenging and rewarding stroll, the Howth Head Cliff Walk is a must. This two-and-a-half-hour trek can be steep at times, but the breathtaking coastal views are well worth it.

The walk begins in Howth Village and concludes in Sutton, where a DART Station provides convenient transport back to the city centre or Howth.

History enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Howth. Seasonal tours of Howth Castle offer a glimpse into the past, while the Hurdy-Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio, located in a Martello Tower off the main street, houses a fascinating collection of old radios, music boxes, and gramophones amassed by founder Pat Herbert.

The National Transport Museum is another must-visit spot in Howth. Here, visitors can learn about Dublin's old trams, as well as a range of military vehicles, passenger cars, and historical emergency vehicles.

Many Dublin locals swear by a sea swim as the ultimate way to relax. While there are numerous excellent sea swimming spots around Dublin, several can be found in Howth.

Balscadden Bay, tucked behind the pier and accessed via a hidden gate and steps, and Red Rock Beach, located along the Howth Head Cliff Walk, are both fantastic options. Don't let the initial chill of the water deter you - a dip in these waters is the perfect precursor to..

Delicious food and drink

Howth is home to a number of great restaurants to grab a wholesome bite. The star of the show here really is the seafood, which can be found at restaurants like Octopussy, Aqua Restaurant, The Pier House Restaurant, and The Brass Monkey.

For tasty pub fare, there is The Bloody Stream and for ambient and funky dining, there is the Doghouse. If it's a simple fish and chip you wish to enjoy in the sun, then there is Beshoff Bros at the start of the village.

You will also find plenty of foodie delights at Howth Market.

Like any proper Irish town, Howth has its fair share of great pubs such as The Bloody Stream, O'Connell's, McNeill's, Waterside, and The Abbey Tavern.

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