The Coastal Village of Howth

Ireland's Eye

The coastal village of Howth is a short train ride from Dublin yet a world away. This is the getaway of choice to rejuvenate and clear the air, so to speak.

Ruins of St. Mary's Abbey

The first church on this site was established in 1042 by the Viking King, Sitric. It was replaced by St. Mary's Abbey in 1235. The Abbey was rebuilt in the 14th century and renovated several times through the 16th century. The ruins date from the 15th and 16th centuries. The congregation moved to another church around 1630 when the Abbey deteriorated and was left to languish.

Howth Harbor and Marina

The harbor is divided in two sections - one for fishing boats and sightseeing ferries and another for pleasure crafts. There is a walking trail that runs through the park from West Pier to East Pier and beyond to the Howth Harbor Lighthouse. The island of Ireland's Eye is visible in the distance. It can be reached by taking a ferry from West Pier.

West Pier

Just down the street from the train station is West Pier where restaurants and fish markets are door to door all the way to the bay. There are so many restaurants to choose from that I bet Dubliners come to Howth just to eat lunch or celebrate a special occasion. And the selections are fresh off the boat.

Menu at Beshoffs

I was torn between crab cakes and mackerel (which is on the regular menu). After consulting with the waitress, I chose the latter and and also ordered a selection of freshly baked bread. All that food and a soda for less than 20€. Can't wait to try the crab cakes.

How to get there:

Take the DART train from Connolly Station to Howth. The rail line forks so make sure that you are taking the line that ends in Howth. The train fare is 3.00€ each way. You can buy tickets from automatic machines or from station ticket agents.

Beshoffs is on 17/18 West Pier. They also have a fish market and a café adjoining the restaurant.

Bring a windblower as it can be nippy walking by the pier. It's always a good idea to bring a jacket when planning a hike in Howth.

*****

Images by TravelswithCharie

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