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Howth

My husband and I will be visiting Ireland in October and are planning on taking a daytrip to Howth from Dublin via DART. From my research it looks like there are several different walks that are considered the Howth Cliffwalk. I am interested in which trails others have taken, the difficulty and approximate length/time of the trail. We are experienced hikers who will be wearing appropriate footwear (trail runners/light hikers). Thanks!

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773 posts

We were in Howth in September of 2019. From the train, we walked straight east on the road closest to the water. We went past the Martello Tower and followed the road as it climbed up the hill past some houses. We followed the trail as it continued rather high above the shoreline. We watched porpoises in one spot. We continued all the way to where the main trail went inland and there was a smaller trail to the lighthouse. and around the end of the point. We had a good view of the lighthouse, but we didn't walk all the way out to it. We went up the hill where there is a restaurant listed on the map, but it wasn't open. We headed back to town on the Upper Cliff Road (a level above the first trail we were on) and walked through the town back to the pier. The hiking was easy, and it was one of favorite days in Ireland.

Posted by
9 posts

Thank you so much for your detailed reply. This sounds like a really fun trail that we would enjoy.

Posted by
319 posts

We were in Howth this past April and did the cliff walk (well, one of the trails.) For perspective, I had only running shoes on and comfortable clothes, along with layers. I did not feel any hiking boots were necessary. There are several trails in this area and signs for your trail options are listed at the beginning of each trail 'entrance'. You can choose different routes. Some may take you 1.5-2hrs (possibly longer depending on pace, picture stops, etc.) Others you can go for 45 min to an hour. And there are plenty of places to stop and take in the views. They are well traveled trails and if you are there on a weekend or school holiday you will see lots of families, people walking dogs, etc. The views are stunning and they are easily hiked trails. Be prepared for wind and/or rain and dress in layers.

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9 posts

Thank you so much for your detailed reply including footwear and clothing. This sounds like a fun day that i know my husband and I would enjoy.