Howth Travel Guide — Things to Do, Food & Hotels
suburb of Dublin, Ireland
About Howth
The name "Howth" is probably from Old NorseHǫfuð, a headland. Vikings colonised here from 819, and after their defeat by Brian Boru at Clontarf in 1014 they held out here until 1177. Then the Normans crushed them (hence the "Bloody Stream") and began building the castle. Howth developed as a fishing and trading port. In the 19th century it competed with Dún Laoghaire to be a shipping port for Dublin, but silting of the harbour meant it eventually lost its commercial business. Fishing continues and there's a coastguard base and leisure marina. In 1994 County Dublin was divided, so Howth is now in County Fingal, and in 2022 had a population of 8400. TheTourist Information Centreis in the Old Courthouse by the harbour, open daily 9:30AM-5PM.
Top Attractions in Howth
Explore the best things to see and do in Howth:
- ★Howth Castle
- ★National Transport Museum
Where to Eat in Howth
Must-try local food and restaurants:
- 🍴Aqua Restaurant
- 🍴Dog House
- 🍴King Sitric
- 🍴Summit Inn
- 🍴The Bloody Stream
Where to Stay in Howth
- 🏨Cornerville B&B
- 🏨Gleann-na-Smoi
- 🏨Hazelwood B&B
- 🏨Marine Hotel
Howth Travel Guide Sections
Our comprehensive guide covers 11 sections including: