The Summit - Howth

The Summit at Howth offers families breathtaking coastal hiking trails that wind along dramatic cliffs overlooking the Irish Sea, with routes suitable for everyone from toddlers to teens. This stunning peninsula combines fresh sea air, wildlife spotting opportunities (including seals and seabirds), and rewarding panoramic views that make the climb worthwhile for adventurous families. The variety of trail options means you can choose shorter loops for little legs or tackle the full cliff walk for older, more energetic kids.

• ✓Spectacular cliff-top views over Dublin Bay and the Irish Sea that feel like the edge of the world
• ✓Wildlife spotting including seals, puffins (in spring), rabbits, and various seabirds
• ✓The historic Bailey Lighthouse, a perfect turnaround point and photo opportunity for families
• ✓Heather-covered hills that bloom purple in late summer, creating a magical landscape
• ✓Rock scrambling opportunities on easier sections that adventurous kids love

1. 1.Start at Howth village where you'll find public car parks (pay and display, coins or card accepted). Arrive before 10am on weekends to secure parking as it fills quickly with day trippers from Dublin.
2. 2.Pack layers and waterproof jackets even in summer. Irish coastal weather changes rapidly, and it's often windier at the summit than in the village below.
3. 3.Stop at a Howth village shop before hiking to grab snacks and water. Bring binoculars for kids to spot seals lounging on the rocks below and boats in Dublin Bay.
4. 4.The cliff path loop (starting from Howth DART station) is about 6km and takes 2-3 hours with kids. For a shorter family option, walk to the Bailey Lighthouse and back (1 hour).
5. 5.Download offline maps before you go, as mobile signal can be spotty on some sections of the trail. Stick to marked paths and keep children close to you near cliff edges.

Visit on weekday mornings (9am-11am) for fewer crowds and clearer trails. Spring and early autumn offer the best combination of mild weather and spectacular wildflowers or autumn colors, while summer brings longer daylight hours perfect for leisurely family hikes.

The trails are free to access with no admission fees. Parking in Howth village costs approximately 2-4 euros for several hours. There are no facilities on the trails themselves, so use restrooms in the village before starting your hike.

Accessible year-round, but winter brings strong winds and rain that can make trails slippery and challenging with children. Spring (April-May) is ideal for puffin spotting and wildflowers. Summer offers the best weather but attracts the most visitors. Autumn provides stunning colors and fewer crowds.

Head to Howth village after your hike for family-friendly options like The Brass Monkey (casual pub fare with a kids menu) or grab fish and chips from Beshoff Bros to eat by the harbor while watching fishing boats come in. The village has several cafes perfect for post-hike hot chocolates.