Hiking the Howth Cliff Walk has been on my New Year’s resolution list for years. It’s one of those things I always meant to do but somehow never got around to.
With the end of the year fast approaching, I decided it was now or never. So, I laced up my hiking boots and hit the trail.
Let me tell you, it was an adventure I’ll never forget! I discovered hidden gems, breathtaking views, and a newfound appreciation for the beauty of the Irish coast. Join me as I share my experience and insider tips for exploring the Howth Cliff Walk.
What is the Howth Cliff Walk known for?
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The Howth Cliff Walk is one of the premier hiking experiences in Dublin. It encompasses several trails, the most popular of which is the Cliff Path Loop, which spans approximately 7.8 km and takes around two hours to complete.
The trail offers panoramic views of Dublin Bay, Lambay Island, and Ireland’s Eye. The best part is that it starts and ends at Howth DART station, so you don’t need a car to get there.
The Cliff Walk has different routes that vary in difficulty. The Cliff Path Loop is moderate and takes you along the cliff edge while the Bog of Frogs Loop, is more challenging and takes longer.
What’s cool is that this place is visually stunning and rich in biodiversity. You can spot various bird species and even grey seals in the waters below. The area is also filled with native flora, which bloom vibrantly during certain seasons.
Best Time to Do the Howth Cliff Walk
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The best times to go hiking there are in spring and autumn. If you’re planning your trip, go early in the morning. That way, you can beat the crowds and enjoy the peaceful vibe. Plus, you might see a gorgeous sunrise over the Irish Sea.
If you want to avoid the crowds, aim to visit during the week or early in the morning on weekends. The place can get pretty packed, especially in the summer. If you want a more tranquil experience and views of Dublin Bay, try to go when it’s less crowded.
How to Get to Howth Cliff Walk
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1. Train
Jump on the DART train at Connolly Station and head towards Howth. The ride only takes about 30 minutes.
When you get to Howth Station, it’s just a short walk to the start of the cliff walk. Follow the signs toward the harbor. Before you know it, you’ll be surrounded by the most breathtaking coastal scenery.
2. Bus
You can hop on the number 6 or H3 bus, departing from D’olier Street or Busáras. Once on the bus, sit tight for about 50 minutes, and you’ll find yourself in Howth.
When you arrive, get off at Howth Summit to easily access the trails. From there, it’s just a quick stroll up to the summit car park, where your adventure begins!
What to Do at Howth Cliff Walk
1. The Black Linn Loop
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The Black Linn Loop walk, also known as the Red Route, is around 8 kilometers and took us about 2.5 hours to complete.
Starting from the DART station in Howth village, we followed the red arrows that guided us through lush woodlands and dramatic cliffs overlooking the Irish Sea. The views were breathtaking!
We could see Howth Summit rising majestically behind us and the sparkling waters of Dublin Bay stretching out ahead. The trail was moderately challenging but doable for most fitness levels.
2. The Bog of Frogs Loop
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The Bog of the Frogs Loop connects you to nature in a way that’s hard to describe. The 12-kilometer loop takes you through coastal scenery, lush woodlands, and even some heathland.
The trail is rated as strenuous, so you’ll get a good workout, but trust me, it’s worth it!
One moment, you’re walking along the edge of dramatic cliffs, feeling the salty breeze on your face, and the next, you’re surrounded by rich woodlands that feel almost magical.
3. The Tramline Loop
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The Tramline Loop is a 7.1-kilometer loop that takes you along the old tramline route. It starts and finishes at the DART station in Howth Village and takes about 2 hours to complete.
The best part is that it’s suitable for all levels – whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just out for a stroll, you’ll love it. Throughout the trail, you’ll be treated to breathtaking sights such as Ireland’s Eye and Howth Harbor.
The trail is well-marked with blue signs, so you won’t get lost. And if you’re into adventure, keep an eye out for the thorny bushes; they add a bit of excitement to the journey!
4. The Howth Head Walk
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The Howth Head Walk offers views of a coastal landscape like something out of a postcard. The trail is about 6 kilometers long with well-marked paths with green arrows leading us along the cliffs, offering amazing views of Dublin Bay and the iconic Baily Lighthouse.
Along the way, we encountered various lookout points where we could sit and admire the scenery. One of the highlights was reaching the summit, where we took a moment to enjoy a picnic with our packed snacks.
Afterward, we decided to extend our adventure by walking down to Baily Lighthouse, just a short distance away. The lighthouse is a fantastic photo op and a great spot to learn about its history while enjoying more stunning coastline views.
Where to Stay Near Howth Cliff Walk
1. Sandymount Hotel
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Address: Herbert Road, Dublin, D04 VN88, Ireland
Phone: +35316142000
Pricing: €€€
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The Sandymount Hotel was a cozy place in Sandymount’s seaside village. Its welcoming vibe made me feel at home instantly. The rooms were comfy and had everything I needed, like high-speed Wi-Fi and Smart TVs.
What I loved most was that the hotel was close to Howth and Dublin city center. Exploring the stunning coastal paths without worrying about transportation was super convenient.
Plus, after hiking, I enjoyed unwinding in the hotel’s cozy lounge area, relaxing with a drink, and sharing stories about my adventures.
2. Aberdeen Lodge
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Address: 53-55 Park Ave, Dublin 4, D04 F684, Ireland
Phone: +35312838155
Pricing: €€€
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Aberdeen Lodge is an adorable boutique hotel tucked away in a quiet part of Howth, super close to the stunning cliffs. The lodge has a cozy vibe and beautifully decorated rooms that blend modern comfort with classic charm.
Our room had everything we needed—comfy bedding, free Wi-Fi, and even a little tea and coffee station. The garden at Aberdeen Lodge was such a lovely spot to chill out in. After a day of exploring, it was the perfect place to relax, surrounded by greenery.
3. Ariel House
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Address: 50-54 Lansdowne Rd, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, D04 DD27, Ireland
Phone: +35316685512
Pricing: €€€
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Ariel House is a guesthouse located in the cutest area called Ballsbridge. The whole place had this warm, cozy vibe that made me feel right at home. The staff was so friendly and helpful, and the vintage decor gave the place a really nice, homey feel.
The best part was the free parking! It makes it easy to explore the nearby attractions without worrying about the car.
4. Anantara The Marker Dublin Hotel
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Address: Grand Canal Quay, Docklands, Dublin, D02 CK38, Ireland
Phone: +35316875100
Pricing: €€€
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From the moment we walked into the sleek, modern lobby, I could feel the luxury vibes around us. The hotel is in the lively Docklands area, perfect for exploring the city and the Howth Cliff Walk.
Dining at Forbes Street by Gareth Mullins was a highlight. The modern Irish menu was packed with delicious dishes made with local ingredients. Plus, the Rooftop Bar and terrace were the perfect spots for sipping cocktails.
5. Herbert Park Hotel & Park Residence
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Address: Ballsbridge Terrace, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4, D04 R2T2, Ireland
Phone: +35316672200
Pricing: €€€
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Herbert Park Hotel & Park Residence is in a beautiful area right in Ballsbridge. It’s also super close to Howth, which was perfect for our adventures. When we walked into the lobby, it just felt so cozy and welcoming.
Our room was awesome—the soundproofing was a game changer, and having air conditioning and a Nespresso machine was a nice touch. They also provided complimentary bottled water and hypoallergenic bedding.
The breakfast at The Pavilion Restaurant was top-notch, with a killer buffet spread. After our hikes, we loved chilling at the Terrace Lounge, sipping on drinks, and taking in the park views.
Where to Eat Near Howth Cliff Walk
1. Mamó
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Address: https://www.mamorestaurant.ie/
Phone: +35318397096
Pricing: €€
Website
Mamó is right by the harbor and has a cozy, welcoming vibe. The mix of modern and rustic decor sets the mood; you can even watch the chefs at work from the bar area.
We started with the lamby lobster croquettes, and they were seriously so good—crispy on the outside and bursting with flavor.
And the lobster linguine we had as our main course was divine, with the perfect balance of richness and freshness. I can’t wait to go back and try more dishes as the menu changes with the seasons.
2. Octopussy’s Seafood Tapas
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Address: W Pier, Howth, Dublin, Ireland
Phone: +35318390822
Pricing: €€
Website
Octopussy’s Seafood Tapas has this vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired theme that draws you in. The decor is all nautical and charming, with quirky touches like fishing nets and colorful artwork celebrating the local marine life.
The menu at Octopussy’s is a seafood lover’s dream. It specializes in delicious tapas that highlight the freshest catch of the day. We loved that the seafood is sourced from the fish shop next door, ensuring everything is ultra-fresh and locally caught.
We couldn’t resist ordering their Seafood Platter, loaded with Dublin Bay prawns, crab claws, and mussels in a creamy white wine sauce. We found ourselves sharing a table with other diners, which added to the communal vibe of the place.
3. Aqua
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Address: 1 W Pier, Howth, Dublin 13, Ireland
Phone: +35318320690
Pricing: €€€
Website
Aqua is decorated with nautical decor and has huge windows that give amazing views of the harbor. The natural light flooding in just made the whole place feel cozy and welcoming.
We went for their pan-seared scallops, and they were out of this world. We also tried their seafood chowder, and it was hearty and packed with flavor.
The staff were so friendly and knew their stuff. They recommended the perfect wine to accompany our meal and made us feel like we had a special, personalized dining experience.
4. The Pier House
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Address: 12 W Pier, Howth, Dublin, D13 T1X6, Ireland
Phone: +35318395777
Pricing: €€
Website
The Pier House has a cozy, seaside vibe, complete with nautical decor and local artwork on the walls. I settled into a booth with a view of the harbor, which was the perfect place to relax after a hike along the cliffs.
The menu was full of fresh seafood and classic Irish dishes. For my main course, I went for the fish and chips, and it did not disappoint. The batter was light and crispy, and the fish was so flaky.
The service was top-notch, and the staff made me feel at home. If you’re looking for a place with amazing food, a cozy atmosphere, and stunning views, The Pier House is the spot to check out!
5. The Brass Monkey
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Address: 12 W Pier, Howth, Dublin, D13 T1X6, Ireland
Phone: +35318063746
Pricing: €€
Website
The Brass Monkey is right by the harbor and has such a chill vibe that’s perfect after a day of exploring the cliffs. The decor is so cool, with nautical themes and colorful artwork.
Their menu focuses on fresh seafood dishes. The best part is their homemade seafood chowder—it’s rich and flavorful, and the ingredients are hearty.
Oh, and here’s the really cool part—they have this Early Bird Menu that’s such a great deal. Two courses start at just €29. It’s a great way to try out their starters and mains without spending much money.
Where to Shop Near Howth Cliff Walk
1. Beshoffs of Howth
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Address: 17-18 W Pier, Howth, Dublin, D13 V9V0, Ireland
Phone: +35318397555
Website
Beshoffs of Howth was like stepping into a seafood lover’s paradise. The market hall was buzzing with locals and visitors, and the smell of fresh seafood and baked goods filled the air. It was such a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
One thing that stood out to me was Beshoff’s dedication to sustainability and quality. They offer a range of ethically sourced products, from wild-caught fish to organic produce, and you can feel their commitment to supporting local fisheries and farmers.
The staff there were knowledgeable and helpful in guiding us to some delicious seafood platters. They even offer takeaway options, so we could savor our food while soaking in the stunning views.
2. Donaghmede Shopping Centre
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Address: Donaghmede Rd, Donaghmede, Co. Dublin, Ireland
Phone: +35318481819
Website
The Donaghmede Shopping Centre has a great mix of shops—perfect for a little retail therapy. There are over 50 stores, including popular fashion brands, a Dunnes Store for groceries, and some unique gift shops.
I loved how everything was in one place, and the layout made navigating easy without feeling overwhelmed. The vibe at Donaghmede is casual and friendly, and plenty of natural light is streaming in through the large windows.
One thing that stood out to us was the blend of local charm with modern amenities. Can you believe a Dublin City Library branch within the shopping center exists? This is such a cool twist for those who love to read.
3. Sutton Cross Shopping Centre
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Address: Sutton Cross, Burrow, Dublin, Ireland
Sutton Cross Shopping Centre has such a cozy and welcoming vibe. The mix of shops there is fantastic—from local boutiques to well-known brands. And the people working there are so friendly and helpful, which made the whole experience even better.
But the best part? The variety of amenities! They’ve got a SuperValu supermarket for all your snacking needs, and there’s this lovely café where we stopped for some coffee and pastries.
The seating areas are so comfy, perfect for taking a break and people-watching after some serious shopping. It’s not just a place to shop; it’s a place to connect with the area and the people. I left feeling like I got a real taste of local life.