Howth Day Trip from Dublin: Cliff Walk and Village Guide
If you’ve read our other blog articles, you’ll know we aren’t city people during our holidays. Living in Dubai offers a maximum city experience, so we’re always looking for scenic escapes. After exploring Dublin for about a day and a half and seeing the iconic landmarks, we decided to leave the city behind and take a day trip to Howth to explore the coastal areas and do the cliff walk. With early September sunsets as late as 8:30pm, we were in no rush and set out after lunch.
Getting to Howth
The easiest way to reach Howth from Dublin city centre is by taking the train, DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit). Trains run frequently from Connolly or Tara Street stations, and the journey takes about 30 minutes, offering pleasant views of Dublin Bay along the way. You can also take a bus from the city centre, which takes around 50 minutes.
If you’re a tourist in Dublin for 1-3 days, we highly recommend getting a visitor’s Leap Card, which makes travel economical and allows unlimited rides on buses, trains, and trams.
Once you arrive at Howth Station, you’ll see a map showing the different cliff walk routes. For our trip, with 16 action-packed days planned, we decided to take the bus up to Howth Summit to save the steep uphill climb. Starting from the summit gives immediate access to panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea, and from there, you can follow the trails downhill along the cliffs, passing landmarks like Muck Rock and Baily Lighthouse before returning to the village.
Howth Cliff Walk: Routes and Highlights
The Howth Cliff Walk is a must-do for visitors, offering multiple interconnected trails ranging from short scenic walks to longer, more challenging loops.
| Route | Distance | Duration | Difficulty | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cliff Path Loop (Green Route) | 6 km | 2 hours | Moderate | Starts at Howth DART, passes Balscadden Bay, Howth Summit, panoramic views of Dublin Bay and Lambay Island |
| Bog of Frogs Loop (Purple Route) | 12 km | 3 hours | Challenging | Extends past Howth Hill and Red Rock Beach, towards Baily Lighthouse |
| Black Linn Loop (Red Route) | 8 km | 2.5 hours | Moderate/Challenging | Rugged terrain, secluded beaches, Irish Sea vistas |
| Tramline Loop (Blue Route) | 7 km | 2 hours | Moderate | Old tramline path, mix of coast and woodland, views of Baily Lighthouse |
| Howth Summit Walk | 2 km | 1 hour | Easy | Short, family-friendly, panoramic summit views |
- Howth Summit – The highest point in the village with 360° views of Dublin Bay and the Wicklow Mountains.
- Muck Rock – Dramatic cliffs and prime photo spots (be cautious near edges).
- Baily Lighthouse – Iconic landmark at the tip of the peninsula, surrounded by coastal paths.
- Red Rock & Secluded Beaches – Perfect for longer walks and a quieter experience.
For a full guide on the cliff paths, check out The Irish Road Trip.
Our Experience on the Cliff Walk
The weather kept us on our toes! It rained while we were on the bus, but once we arrived, it was a mix of sun and wind. Walking uphill made us sweat, but descending towards the lighthouse brought rain, wind and chills. Luckily, we found a small cove in the trees to take shelter, and the rest of the walk was spent taking photos and admiring the natural flora, from vibrant flowers to wild berries, and the ever-changing colours of the sea. The weather added an extra layer of adventure to our day, making it even more memorable.
Howth Village: Things to See and Do
In addition to the Cliff Walk, Howth village has plenty to offer, making it easy to turn the visit into a full day trip. From charming streets and local markets to fresh seafood and historic landmarks, the village perfectly complements a day spent exploring the coastline.
- Howth Harbour: The heart of the village, where colourful fishing boats bob in the water. It is perfect for a stroll or to watch local fishermen at work.
Tip: Stop by a café for coffee or pick up a snack before starting your walk.
Photography: The harbour is particularly photogenic in the morning light or at sunset. - Howth Market and Local Shops: Quaint streets are lined with artisanal shops, local boutiques, and weekend markets. It is a great place to pick up handmade goods or souvenirs.
- Local Eateries and Pubs Howth is famous for its seafood, from fish and chips and fresh oysters to hearty seafood chowder. Alongside the harbour stalls, you will find cosy cafés and traditional pubs where you can enjoy a pint with sea views. It is the perfect way to wind down after a cliff walk.
- Howth Castle and Gardens Slightly inland, the castle is surrounded by manicured gardens. It is ideal for a quiet stroll away from the village bustle.
- Beaches Howth has a couple of scenic beaches that are great for relaxing or a casual walk.
Balscadden Bay Beach: A quiet spot near the start of the Cliff Walk.
Claremont Beach: A sandy stretch close to the harbour, perfect for unwinding after exploring.
Final Thoughts
A day trip to Howth is the perfect blend of coastal adventure, local culture, and fresh seafood indulgence. Starting your walk from Howth Summit allows you to enjoy the cliffs without the uphill strain, while the village offers a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Whether it is a short stroll or a full-day hike, Howth captures the charm of Ireland’s coastline beautifully.
