The Top of Howth Hill
The Top of Howth Hill
Howth Summit: Panoramic Views of Dublin Bay
Experience breathtaking panoramic views from Howth Summit, a scenic Dublin destination blending natural beauty with rich history and outdoor activities.
Ascend to Howth Summit for breathtaking panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the surrounding coastline. This easily accessible vantage point offers stunning vistas stretching as far as County Wicklow, making it a must-see destination for nature lovers and sightseers alike.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The Summit
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Dublin, Howth, IE
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Getting There
Public Transport
From Dublin city center, take the DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) train to Howth station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and costs €2-€4. From Howth DART station, you can take bus #31 or #31A to Howth Summit (Stop 567), which takes about 7-9 minutes. Alternatively, Dublin Bus route 31A goes directly from Eden Quay in Dublin to Howth Summit, with a journey time of approximately 1 hour; the fare is approximately €3. A Leap Visitor Card offers unlimited travel on Dublin's public transport system.
Walking
From Howth DART station, follow Howth Road towards the village center. Continue along Main Street, turning uphill onto Thormanby Road. Follow Thormanby Road uphill; it's a steep climb of approximately 3 km (1.9 miles) to the Summit, taking around 45-60 minutes. Note that this route involves a significant incline. Alternatively, the old tramline track (opposite The Summit Inn) is the quickest way on foot from the village to the summit.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available from Howth DART station. A taxi to Howth Summit will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic, and cost around €10-€15. Note that taxi fares can vary depending on the time of day and availability.
Driving
From Dublin, follow the R803, R807, and R105 roads to Howth. Once in Howth, follow signs for Howth Summit. There is a parking lot at Howth Summit, but it can be busy, especially on weekends. Parking is free. Be aware that the roads leading to the summit are narrow and winding.
Local tips
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Check the weather forecast before you go, as the summit can be exposed and windy. Clear days offer the best views.
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Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to hike any of the trails around the summit.
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Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of Dublin Bay and the surrounding coastline.
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Visit the Summit Inn for a warm drink or a meal while enjoying the scenery.
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Consider taking public transportation, as parking at the summit can be limited, especially on weekends.
Discover more about The Summit
Howth Summit, standing 171 meters high, provides unparalleled views of Dublin Bay, extending to the distant Wicklow Mountains. The summit is easily reached by car, bus, or a scenic hike, rewarding visitors with stunning vistas. From the summit, you can embark on various walking trails, including a path to the Ben of Howth, a headland marked by a cairn believed to be a 2,000-year-old Celtic royal grave.
Historically, Howth has been settled since prehistoric times and holds a prominent place in Irish mythology. The name 'Howth' is thought to be of Norse origin, derived from the Old Norse word 'Hǫfuð' meaning 'head'. The area evolved from an island to a peninsula, becoming a significant fishing village and trading port by the 14th century. Today, Howth is a bustling suburb of Dublin, blending residential areas with wild hillsides, coastal paths, and a vibrant fishing harbor.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities around Howth Summit, including exploring the charming village, indulging in fresh seafood, or taking a boat trip to Ireland's Eye, a nearby island and bird sanctuary. The Summit Inn, located near the parking lot, offers traditional pub fare and a cozy atmosphere with stunning views. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, Howth Summit promises an unforgettable experience with its captivating scenery and rich history.
A brief summary to The Summit
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