Lighthouse on Howth peninsula

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Howth Summit

County Dublin


Howth Summit (171m) has excellent views across Dublin Bay right down to County Wicklow. From the top of Howth hill you can walk to the top of the Ben of Howth, a headland near the village, which has a cairn said to mark a 2000-year-old Celtic royal grave. The 1814 Baily Lighthouse, at the southeastern corner, is on the site of an old stone fort and can be reached by a dramatic clifftop walk.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby County Dublin attractions

2. Howth Castle Gardens

1.37 MILES

The gardens of Howth Castle are worth a visit; they’re noted for their rhododendrons (which bloom in May and June), azaleas and a long, 10m-high beech…

3. Howth Castle

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Most of Howth backs onto the extensive grounds of Howth Castle, built in 1564 but much changed over the years, most recently in 1910 when Sir Edwin…

4. St Mary's Abbey

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Within the grounds of Howth Castle are the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey, originally founded in 1042 by the Viking King Sitric, who also founded the original…

5. National Transport Museum

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6. Claremont Beach

1.75 MILES

Howth's 'hidden' beach is Claremont, on the other side of the railway. It's a lovely sandy strand, with perfect views of Ireland's Eye directly in front…

7. Ireland's Eye

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A short distance offshore from Howth is Ireland's Eye, a rocky seabird sanctuary with the ruins of a 6th-century monastery. There's a Martello tower at…

8. Poolbeg Lighthouse

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The red, 20m-high Poolbeg Lighthouse is the most handsome and conspicuous landmark in Dublin Bay. It was rebuilt in 1820 to replace an original lighthouse…