Howth, Ireland

The small coastal town of Howth is one of Ireland’s best kept secrets.  I stumbled upon this magnificent location by total chance, when I say chance I truly mean it, one afternoon my husband and I decided to pick a random stop on the DART track and Howth just happened to be the choice. That random choice has inspired multiple trips back, none have been disappointing. Only a short train ride from Dublin on the DART train, this scenic fishing village offers visitors a breath taking sea views, natural beauty, and small village charm.

Howth Harbor

Howth Harbor is one of the first stops that you will want to make when you get off of the DART train. With stunning views and an abundance of wildlife, this is an amazing place to see Howth in its truest form. I always take the opportunity to walk the pier and take in the amazing sights and sounds. In my journeys I have seen sea lions, an array of native birds, and other sea life that I had only ever seen behind protective materials at the local zoo. While there stop by the Howth Lighthouse, this large and prolific post-Napoleonic lighthouse is over 200 years old and has had its own impact on Irish history.  The harbor will also give you an amazing view of the Eye of Ireland located only a 15  minute boat ride away from shore.

Bog of Frogs Loop

One of the best things about this small village is that travelers don’t need a car and can get everywhere easily by foot. The Bog of Frogs Loop is a great way to see Howth in all of its scenic glory including the cliffs, Lambay Island, and the Baily Lighthouse. There are multiple routes but all are pretty easy to walk and won’t take more than a few hours depending on your pace.

Howth Castle

While making your way through Howth, you are likely to come upon one of the oldest buildings in the village, Howth Castle. This charming 12^th century castle is privately owned but is open to tour groups all year round with advanced notice. Even if you forgo the tour you can still visit the outside of the castle and enjoy walks through the the stunning rhododendron gardens and on the Ben of Howth.

St. Mary’s Abbey

As a history lover, there is nothing more that I love to do than explore through the ruins of ancient buildings and castles, learning more about the people who lived and died there. St. Mary’s Abbey grounds has an interesting history dating back to the early 11^th century when it’s original church was built by the Viking King of Dublin, Sitric. The structure itself was replaced in the 13^th century and once again altered in the late 14^th century to what is now known as St. Mary’s Abbey. These medieval ruins have a long, rich history and are quite well preserved in their remnant state. Take some time to walk the ruins and check out the ancient graves that surround the abbey.  

Ireland’s Eye

Ireland’s Eye is a small uninhabited island off the coast of Howth which is home to both a bird sanctuary and the ruins of an ancient church. Only a short boat ride away from Howth this unique Island calls home to various birds such as guillemots, razorbills, fulmars, gulls, and gannets