Dublin: Coastal Craft Beer & Seafood Trail in Howth Village

Summary

Howth’s pubs, seafood chowder, ancient ruins and Irish sea air

You’ll wander through Howth with a local guide, tasting craft beers and fresh seafood right by Dublin’s coast. Expect stories from lively pubs, hands-on moments with steaming chowder or smoked salmon on soda bread, plus time among ancient ruins and bustling fishermen. It’s a day that lingers long after you leave — especially if you love good food or a bit of history mixed with sea air.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to feel so at home in Howth. Maybe it was the way our guide, Aoife, greeted us at the Bloody Stream pub — like we’d already met before. The place smelled like woodsmoke and sea salt, and my first spoonful of seafood chowder was so rich I almost forgot about the beer (almost). She poured us a local pale ale — I can’t remember the name now, but it tasted bright and a bit grassy. Aoife told us stories about fishermen who still haul their catch up to the port just outside. You could actually hear them shouting over the gulls as we stepped out again.

The walk along the harbor was windy enough to make my eyes water, but I liked it. There’s something about that cold Irish sea air that makes you hungry for more food — or maybe just another half pint. We passed old boats bobbing against each other and Aoife pointed out where Viking King Sitric landed back in 1042 (I had to Google him later). At some point she tried teaching us how to say “sláinte” properly; I’m still not sure I nailed it. There were ruins poking out of the grass on Ireland’s Eye across the water — kind of eerie but beautiful too.

Lunch at The Oar House was loud in a good way: clinking glasses, people laughing, plates piled with mussels and prawns. The crab claws were sweet and messy — don’t wear white if you’re clumsy like me. Someone from another table started singing quietly; nobody seemed surprised. Later we stopped by Howth’s old Courthouse for smoked salmon on Guinness soda bread (honestly, I could eat that every day), then ducked into The Harbour Bar for one last round. The walls there are covered in old photos and scribbled notes — you get the feeling everyone has a story here.

On the way back through the village, I noticed how many writers had lived around here — Yeats, Joyce… maybe that’s why it feels so layered. Or maybe it was just the mix of salty wind and stout still on my tongue. Either way, I keep thinking about that afternoon whenever I smell smoked fish or hear seagulls now.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Dublin Coastal Craft Beer and Seafood Trail

• Start at Bloody Stream pub
• Sample local beers and Seafood Chowder
• Explore fishing port and watch fishermen
• Hear tales of Howth's ancient history
• Follow Hidden Howth Experiences guide
• Visit Viking ruins from 1042
• Take photos of Ireland's Eye
• Learn about Howth Lighthouse and Gun Running
• Enjoy seafood platter at The Oar House
• Tour Howth's old Courthouse
• Taste smoked salmon and Guinness soda bread
• Walk through village and see Howth Head views
• Visit The Harbour Bar for craft beers

Top questions

Is pickup included for this Dublin Coastal Craft Beer & Seafood Trail?

No hotel pickup is included; the tour begins at Bloody Stream pub in Howth.

What food is served during this Howth seafood tour?

You’ll try seafood chowder, mussels, prawns, crab claws, locally smoked salmon with Guinness soda bread, plus other tastings.

Are drinks included on this Dublin craft beer tour?

Yes, several half pints or bottles of local craft beer are included throughout the day.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options are wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.

Can infants join this Howth food & beer trail?

Infants can join in a pram or stroller but must sit on an adult's lap; minimum age for alcohol is 18 years.

Does this tour run in bad weather?

The tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for rain or wind.

Can dietary requirements be accommodated?

Please advise any specific dietary needs when booking so adjustments can be made where possible.

Is there a private option available for this tour?

Yes, you can book a private tour and customize your experience if preferred.

What’s included

Your day includes guidance from a local expert through Howth village and harbor with several tastings of craft beer paired with seafood chowder, mussels, prawns, crab claws, locally smoked salmon on Guinness soda bread plus a three-course lunch at The Oar House. You’ll also visit historic sites like ancient ruins and the old Courthouse before finishing at The Harbour Bar — all food tastings and beverages are included along with a video memento of your journey.