Scenic Walk through Howth

Take our suggested walk through Howth, in North County Dublin, Ireland, which takes you past local attractions, pubs, shops and much more. Take in some fresh air and see the wonderful sights of Howth and Sutton.

Start:	Howth DART (Railway) Station
Finish:	Sutton DART (Railway) Station
Time:	Allow two hours for the walk, not including interior visits.

Route

1. Howth Harbour: To your right is the Howth Transport Museum, an interesting collection of Irish related historical vehicles. You should go left and begin your walk with a stroll along Howth Harbour promenade. Looking out onto this harbour you see Ireland’s Eye (island) and the working fishing fleet of Howth in action. Take your first right and continue a bit up the hill. On your left is a:
2. Martello Tower: Built c. 1800 to watch for and signal an expected French invasion, this is one of many Martello Towers dotted around the Irish coast. From here you get an excellent view of the harbour, island, cliffs and the promenade. Continue back to the road and cross it. Up a narrow alley and to the right is:
3. Abbey Ruins: Here are the ruins of St. Mary’s Church first built in 1042 and replaced in c. 1235. The present ruin is of 14^th century construction, modified in the 15^th and 16^th centuries. Return to Abbey St. and continue up the hill and you will see a Catholic Church. Fork right here and continue uphill. The scene here is a pleasant one. A few shops and cottages dot the road-side. For a rest have a seat on the bench on the hill. Here are fine views of Howth, and North County Dublin. Continue on and turn right onto:
4. Windgate Road: Here it is difficult to believe that you are still in Dublin’s suburbs. Fields with cattle, quaint cottages and the winding road give a feeling of pleasant remoteness. Wander on and after a while you reach the southern side of Howth. Here you will have an excellent view of South County Dublin and the Wicklow Mountains. The walk will bring you to a junction where you meet the main road. You could catch a bus or continue straight on along Carrickbrack Road. After a good walk you reach Sutton where you may take a train or bus back to the city.