Howth Cliff Path Loop

The Howth Cliff Path Loop is the easiest way to swap city streets for sea cliffs without leaving County Dublin. Howth is a fishing village on a rocky headland at the northern end of Dublin Bay, and the village and harbour are a popular day trip from the city. The DART suburban railway runs right to Howth station, around 25 minutes from the centre, and that station is where the walk begins and ends.

The loop is waymarked with green arrows on a white background. It is 7.8 kilometres long, with about 130 metres of ascent, and Sport Ireland grades it as moderate, with a suggested time of two hours. In practice many walkers take longer, because they stop for photographs and because some sections are narrow and uneven. The route climbs from the village along the cliffs to the area known as the Summit, then returns on a parallel path inland. Along the way there are views over Ireland's Eye and Lambay Island, across Dublin Bay, and often of seabirds and grey seals in the water below.

The headland itself reaches 171 metres at the Ben of Howth, and on clear days the views can stretch a very long way. The Baily Lighthouse stands on the south-eastern side of the head, and walkers who want to extend the route can detour from the Summit towards it, though that adds extra distance and climbing. Several other loops of different lengths share the same trail network, so you can choose a shorter or longer walk.

Wear walking boots or sturdy trainers with a good grip. The terrain is rough in places, paths become muddy and slippery after rain, some steps are high, and unofficial shortcuts off the path are steep. Stay on the marked route and keep well back from the cliff edges, especially with children or in wind. There is little shelter, so bring a waterproof layer whatever the forecast.

Combine the walk with lunch in Howth village and a stroll around the harbour. Go early on weekends, when the trains and the trail are busiest, or on a weekday for a quieter walk. The trail is free and needs no booking.