Howth is a historic fishing village and a costal suburb on the northeast of Dublin Bay about 15 kilometres from Dublin city centre. It is one of Dublin’s oldest working harbours and Ireland’s busiest fishing ports. It has so much to offer with a wonderful marina and is popular with locals and tourists enjoying views from the summit, walks on the piers, and an endless supply of locally sourced seafood.
It is a top destination for cyclists, joggers and hillwalkers particularly at weekends. Two must-do walks are the Cliff Path Loop and the original Cliff Walk to Red Rock in Sutton, both offering breath-taking views!
Howth Castle is a popular attraction to enjoy centuries old history and to take in the beautiful surrounding gardens, which are home to a ten-metre-high hedge and the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey. Open at weekends, Howth Market is home to an array of Irish crafts, delicate handmade jewellery, and vintage antiques and offers a fantastic day out.
Howth is also well connected by the DART and Dublin Bus with routes 31, 31a and 31b. It takes approx. 30 minutes to drive from the city centre in off peak traffic.
HISTORY
By Dublin standards Howth is considered very old. It has been a fishing village for hundreds of years possibly longer, and since it was invaded by the Vikings in the early ninth century. The name Howth is thought to be of Norse origin and the harbour was built as far back as 1807 and at this time was the main Dublin harbour for boats from England. Today continues its importance as a working fishing port.
EDUCATION
There are three primary schools in Howth all of which are mixed schools, Howth Primary School, St. Fintan’s and Burrow School.
There are three secondary schools located in Howth. Sutton Park is a mixed school, and Santa Sabina is all-girls and St Fintan’s High School is an all-boys school.
DINE & DRINK
Howth is a great spot for foodie lovers who are spoiled for choice with an abundance of small locally run restaurants and pubs. Seafood is the first choice for many in the many pubs and restaurants in Howth. The Brass Monkey specialises in seafood tapas and wine. Oar House Fish Restaurant is an award-winning restaurant offering the ultimate of fresh food. At the very end of the pier is Aqua, another seafood specialist offering stunning views of Ireland's Eye while dining in style.
The Abbey Tavern is a traditional Irish pub with lots of entertainment and an extensive food menu to suit all tastes. Fresh pizza from the wood-fire stove can be enjoyed in a cosy set up at The Dog House & Blue's Tea Rooms.
The many food and drinks options also include Mamo Restaurant, The House Howth, The Summit Inn, and Crabby Joes!
Howth is also home to lots of trendy coffee shops with 10 options to grab for your favourite brew.
SHOP
There are several small independent food and wine shops in Howth including the popular Country Market. For a larger weekly shop there is a Lidl at Baldoyle, and nearby shopping centres include Sutton Cross, Donaghmede and Portmarnock. Wrights of Howth pride themselves for supplying the highest quality local produce in their luxury gift hampers.
