Howth Cliff Walk & Village: Dublin Coastal Walking Tour

Summary

Howth’s wild cliffs, old abbey stones and village stories with a local

You’ll follow secret cliff paths above Howth with a local guide who shares stories only locals know, feel sea spray on your face, wander through ancient abbey ruins, and end in the heart of Howth village — all within reach of Dublin city. It’s more than just scenery; you’ll feel part of the place by the end.

What’s the experience like?

“If you listen close, you’ll hear the sea before you see it,” our guide Brian grinned as we left the train station in Howth. He was right — that salty hush crept up before the wind did. We’d barely started the walk when he pointed out an old fisherman waving from his boat, calling something in Irish I definitely didn’t catch. The air smelled like damp grass and chip shops warming up for lunch. I remember thinking: this is only half an hour from Dublin? Feels like another world.

The Howth cliff walk isn’t just about big views (though honestly, those cliffs are wild). Brian had us duck down narrow paths where gorse scratched my jeans and told stories about smugglers hiding out here ages ago. At one point he stopped us to show a patch of wild thyme — “rub it between your fingers,” he said — and yeah, my hands smelled herby for the next hour. There was a bit of drizzle but nobody minded; even the locals just shrugged and pulled their hoods tighter. We passed St. Mary’s Abbey ruins and Brian got quiet for a second, then told us how his grandmother used to bring him here as a kid. That stuck with me.

By the time we reached Howth village again, my shoes were muddy and I’d laughed more than I expected (mostly at myself trying to pronounce Irish names). We ended near a pub where someone played fiddle inside — not part of the tour officially, but it felt right to step in for a pint after all that sea air. If you’re looking for something easy but real — not just ticking off sights — this day trip from Dublin is worth it. I still think about that thyme scent sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Howth Coastal Walk and Village Tour

• Travel from Dublin to Howth
• Explore Howth cliff walk
• Hear tales of culture and folklore
• Ramble secret pathways
• Visit Howth village
• See St. Mary’s Abbey
• Enjoy views of Ireland’s east coast

Top questions

How long does it take to get from Dublin to Howth?

It takes about 30 minutes by public transport from Dublin city to Howth.

Is this Howth walking tour suitable for beginners?

You should have at least moderate fitness; some paths are uneven or steep.

Are service animals allowed on this tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this walking tour.

Does the tour include entry fees or meals?

No meals or entry fees are included; only your guide is included.

What will we see on the Howth guided walking tour?

You’ll explore cliff paths, secret trails, St. Mary’s Abbey ruins, and Howth village along Ireland’s east coast.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near the meeting point in Howth.

Is this tour recommended for people with health issues?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided walk through Howth’s coastal cliffs and village streets led by someone who truly knows the area — no entry fees or meals are part of it, but you’ll get plenty of stories along the way before heading back toward Dublin when you’re ready.