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A detailed local guide to planning a perfect Howth Cliff Walk day trip from Dublin, featuring the best transport routes, scenic paths and insider walking tips.
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Highlights the “bus up, DART back” method for a relaxed downhill walk ending at Howth Harbour’s dining spots.
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Offers practical advice on routes, safety, what to bring and top places to eat and explore around Howth village.
Welcome to our new Day Trips from Dublin series! Every month this year, I will be sharing a brilliant one-day adventure right on your doorstep, packed with insider tips for the best escapes. Kicking things off with Howth Cliff Walk & Village, this coastal gem is the perfect way to start. Grab your trainers and let’s explore!
There’s no better way to spend a sunny (or even slightly misty) day in Dublin than by hopping on the DART train and heading out to Howth, a charming fishing village on Dublin’s north coast. This seaside gem is one of my absolute favourite day trips from Dublin and if you love scenic views, fresh seafood and a touch of Irish coastal charm, you’re going to adore it too.
No need to trek all the way to the Cliffs of Moher for dramatic coastal cliffs. Howth’s got them right here on Dublin’s doorstep and with half the travel time and twice the fresh fish!
Getting to Howth
People recommend going to Howth and back by DART train from Connolly or Tara Street. And it’s a solid choice, just 30 minutes from the city centre with lovely sea views popping up as you approach. But as a Dubliner who’s done this trip countless times over the years (and loves every visit), I’ve got a better recommendation to save your legs: take the H3 bus from Abbey Street Lower straight to Howth Summit at the top of the cliffs. If you prefer driving, there’s parking near the harbour or also in the top, but public transport keeps it hassle-free, sustainable and lets you relax.
For this Howth day trip from Dublin, my local tip is to start your hike at the top of the cliffs and finish by the harbour with good food and a DART ride home.
A really handy route is:
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Go from Dublin city to Howth Summit on the H3 bus, which runs from Abbey Street Lower and stops right by the top of the hill.
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Do your Howth Cliff Walk from the summit down towards the village and harbour.
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Then return to Dublin by DART from Howth station, which is just a short stroll from the harbour and pier.
This “bus up, DART back” combo saves you the steep uphill and lets you enjoy a more relaxed, mostly downhill cliff walk, which is ideal for a full Howth cliff path loop day trip from Dublin without a car.
Explore how to use the public transport in Dublin.
The Howth Cliff Walk
Once you arrive, grab a coffee from one of the local cafés and follow the signs for the Howth Cliff Path Loop, one of Ireland’s most beautiful coastal walks. There are several routes to choose from, depending on how adventurous you’re feeling. The full loop takes around 2.5 hours and rewards you with jaw-dropping views of the Baily Lighthouse, Ireland’s Eye and the open sea.
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Start at Howth Harbour and walk along the scenic cliffs (or the opposite).
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Stop for photos at the summit (it’s worth the climb!).
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Keep an eye out for seals and seabirds below.
Howth Cliff Walk Routes
Howth offers four colour-coded loops, all starting from Howth DART Station for easy navigation. Follow the trail arrows to match your energy and time, perfect for a Howth cliff path loop day trip from Dublin.
Black Linn Loop (red arrows): Head along the cliffs to ‘The Summit’, then loop back around the Ben of Howth via the old tramline.
Bog of Frogs Loop (purple arrows): Follow the cliffs past Red Rock and Baily Lighthouse, circle the Ben of Howth and return on the tramline.
Cliff Path Loop (green arrows): Walk the cliffs to ‘The Summit’, returning parallel to your outward path.
Tramline Loop (blue arrows): Climb the cliffs to ‘The Summit’, then descend along the old tramline.
Hidden Tiny Beach in Howth
Tucked just below the cliffs near the lighthouse, the hidden tiny beach in Howth feels like a secret corner of the coastline. It’s a small, sheltered cove with clear water and rocky walls, sitting quietly beneath the cliff path. From above, you’ll spot it peeking out from the bay and on a calm day the waves roll in gently, making it a lovely place to pause, breathe and take in the views after your cliff walk.
To get down, there’s a narrow, steep little trail leading from the top of the cliffs towards the beach, so it’s one for confident walkers with good shoes rather than casual flip‑flops. Take your time on the way down and always be mindful of the weather and the tide, as the space on the sand can shrink quickly. Even if you decide not to go all the way to the bottom, stopping at the viewpoint above this tiny beach is still a must on your Howth cliff route, as it gives you one of the most beautiful perspectives over the bay and lighthouse.
What to See in Howth Village
There’s plenty to see in Howth village once you come off the cliffs (and it’s all very walkable). Start down by Howth Harbour, where fishing boats, colourful sheds and the long pier set the scene for a proper seaside afternoon. You can stroll along the East Pier for views back towards the cliffs and Ireland’s Eye, then loop around the West Pier, which is lined with seafood restaurants and casual spots for a pint or an ice cream. At weekends, pop into Howth Market just beside the DART station, where you’ll find stalls with local crafts, sweet treats, coffee and little souvenirs that make a nice reminder of your day.
Inside the village streets, you’ll find cosy pubs and cafés where you can rest your legs and soak up the local atmosphere. A wander up from the harbour brings you to small independent shops and bakeries, perfect if you fancy a takeaway coffee and a pastry before your train back to Dublin. If you have a bit more time, walk out towards Howth Castle and its wooded grounds or simply choose a bench by the marina and watch the boats and seabirds for a slow, peaceful finish to your Howth day trip from Dublin.
Where to eat in Howth Harbour
Once you finish your walk, Howth Harbour is packed with great places for seafood, casual bites and a well-earned drink. Best places to eat in Howth Harbour for a post‑hike meal include:
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Mamó – modern, creative dishes on Harbour Road; small, stylish and popular, so booking is a good shout if you want a sit‑down dinner.
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King Sitric Seafood Bar – long‑running seafood spot with harbour and bay views, ideal if you’re craving fresh fish, crab claws or classic fish and chips after the walk.
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The Brass Monkey – relaxed tapas‑style seafood on the West Pier, with outdoor seating that’s perfect on a sunny day.
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The Pier House – contemporary restaurant on the West Pier focusing on local seafood and seasonal ingredients, great if you fancy something a bit more special.
These harbour restaurants sit right where your walk naturally ends, which makes them perfect to mention in your Howth cliff walk and harbour food guide from Dublin.
What to bring for the day
If you’re doing the full loop or a longer section of the cliffs, packing smart genuinely makes or breaks the day. For a Howth cliff walk day trip from Dublin you should bring:
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Water: At least 1–1.5 litres per person if you’re doing the whole route, as there are no guaranteed spots to refill once you’re up on the cliffs.
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Snacks or a light lunch: Think sandwiches, nuts, fruit or energy bars; there are cafés and restaurants at the start and end, but not along the cliff itself.
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Layers and a waterproof: Coastal weather turns quickly, even in summer and it can be windy on the exposed sections of the trail.
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Comfortable walking shoes: The path can be uneven and muddy in places, so trainers or light hiking boots are much better than fashion shoes.
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Tissues/hand sanitiser and a bit of cash or card for toilets and treats in the village.
Public toilets can be limited and sometimes closed, especially away from the harbour or summit car parks, so if you’re out on the cliffs for a few hours, plan as if there are no toilet facilities on the Howth cliff path and go before you start.
Tips for the Perfect Day Trip
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Bring layers – coastal weather changes fast.
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Good shoes are a must – it gets muddy in parts.
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Start early to make the most of the daylight.
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Stay for sunset if you can, the light over the cliffs is magical.
Howth isn’t just a walk, it’s a reminder of how close pure natural beauty is to Dublin city. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend reset or a traveller exploring beyond the capital, this little peninsula has a way of slowing time. Every time I go, I leave with salt in my hair, tired legs and a full heart, exactly.
10 FAQs about the Howth Cliff Walk Day Trip from Dublin
How do I get to Howth from Dublin without a car?
The easiest way is to take the DART train from Connolly or Tara Street Station, which takes about 30 minutes. For a more relaxed route, take the H3 bus from Abbey Street Lower to Howth Summit, then walk downhill towards the village and return by DART.
How long does the Howth Cliff Walk take?
The full loop takes around 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and photo stops. Shorter loops are available if you prefer an easier or quicker walk.
Is the Howth Cliff Walk suitable for beginners?
Yes — most paths are well-marked and manageable, though some sections can be steep or uneven. Good walking shoes are recommended.
When is the best time to visit Howth?
Spring through early autumn is ideal for longer walks, clear views and calmer weather. However, Howth’s charm holds year-round if you dress appropriately for wind and showers.
Can I bring kids or pets on the Howth Cliff Walk?
Definitely. Children who can manage longer walks and dogs on a leash both do well here. Just mind exposed edges and steep sections near the summit.
Where can I eat after the walk?
Howth Harbour offers excellent seafood and local dining at spots like Mamó, King Sitric, The Brass Monkey, and The Pier House. There are also cafés and takeaways for a more casual bite.
Is there parking available in Howth?
Yes — you’ll find parking both near the harbour and at the summit. However, spaces fill quickly on weekends, so public transport is often the stress-free option.
Are there toilet facilities along the trail?
Public toilets are mainly near Howth Harbour and occasionally at car parks close to the summit. There are none on the cliffs themselves, so plan ahead.
What should I bring for the day trip?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, layers for changing weather, and a waterproof jacket. A camera and some cash for treats or markets are handy, too.
What else can I do in Howth village besides walking?
Stroll the piers, visit Howth Market, explore Howth Castle grounds, or enjoy a sunset drink by the marina. It’s a great spot to unwind after your hike.
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