The seaside town with secret beaches, cliff walk with incredible views and castle – just minutes from Dublin city centre
WARMER days and sunshine are often home to some of our most treasured memories, and with the summer holidays inching closer, why not make a few more at one of Ireland's most picturesque locations?
Just 25 minutes from Dublin city centre by train, Howth is bustling with life and full of outdoor activities, spectacular walks, incredible food and much more.
Visitors can feast their eyes and their bellies as they sit back and relax along the scenic harbour before heading off to explore all this famous seaside town has in store.
WALKING TRAILS
As part of the Dublin Coastal Trail, Howth has an abundance to offer walkers.
If you're looking for a leisurely walk, why not head for a stroll along the length of the East Pier, which will lead you to the town's incredible lighthouse?
For those looking for something a little more challenging, various trails on Howth Head make for a great hike.
Paths weaving up and along the cliffs boast epic views of the bay. These can be explored by the 6km Cliff Path Loop.
On the way to the beginning of the trail, you will walk by Balscadden Bay, a stunning curve of sand and clear water where sea swimmers often take a dip.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES
If you are feeling adventurous, then Howth is definitely the place for you.
Visitors can explore the caves, cliffs and islands from the sea by kayak, getting the incredible opportunity to get up close and personal with nature.
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Keen golfers also have the choice of two excellent courses. Howth Golf Club is set on the hills of the headland, while the public Deer Park Golf Course is right by Howth Castle.
MUSEUMS
There is plenty on offer for those interested in history, as the town is home to one of Ireland's most eccentric museums.
The Hurdy-Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio, in Martello Tower, first opened its doors in 2003 after founder Pat Herbert decided to showcase the radios and all things connected with communications he had collected while working in the construction industry in London in the 1950s.
Howth is also home to the National Transport Museum, with rare and unique vehicles on display, like a fire engine from 1883 and a replica Dublin tram.
HOWTH CASTLE
In 1177 Almeric, the first Lord of Howth came to Ireland with John de Courcy.
Legend has it that on August 10, the feast day of St Lawrence, Almeric won a victory which secured him possession of the Howth peninsula. As a gesture of gratitude, he is said to have taken the name of St Lawrence.
Upon visiting, guests can view the contents of the house, which have been accumulated over centuries, which includes the Great Sword of Howth, allegedly wielded by Almeric in 1177 but more convincingly dated to the early fifteenth century.
The paintings also on display include portraits by Watts, Lavery, Hudson, Grant and Ferneley, and one of few portraits of Jonathan Swift, depicted by Francis Bindon.
HIDDEN BEACHES
Howth is home to a number of impressive beaches, including Red Rock, Claremont, Balscadden Bay and one final mysterious beach.
The first of the beaches is Red Rock Beach which is located on the southern side of the Peninsula.
If you're taking on the longest trail of the Howth Cliff Walk, then you're bound to come across this spectacular beach.
Located on the western side is Claremont Beach, which boasts acres of golden sand to play in.
This beach is a fantastic spot for families to spend time at before heading into town for something to eat a little later.
There are also great views towards Ireland's Eye.
Balscadden Bay Beach is the most popular beach in Howth, located on the opposite side of the harbour.
While it isn't sandy, it is beautiful and has gorgeous views overlooking the Howth Cliffs and across the water to Ireland's Eye.
The hidden beach in Howth is most certainly Instagramable, but visitors are warned of the dangers posed by the small beauty.
With its steep face, uneven ground and unpredictably wild winds, it's better to admire the rare find from the safety of above.
B&B AND HOTEL PRICES
The Marine Hotel located at Sutton Cross, the gateway to Howth and Dublin City is a hotel of great warmth and character, with its lawn rolling down to the shore of Dublin Bay.
There are 48 bedrooms, swimming pool, sauna, meeting rooms and banquet facilities and room prices begin at around €115 per night for two people.
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King Sitric Seafood Bar and Accommodation situated at the foot of the East Pier, also offers rooms from €170 per night.
B&B accommodation in the area also includes Gleann-Na-Smol with rooms for around €137 per night.
