#visithowth

A striking Celtic Cross monument located at Howth harbour.

Did you know that Howth was home to the poet and writer William Butler Yeats? He lived in the village during his teenage years and the fishing village certainly made an impression on him. He wrote the essay ‘Village Ghosts’ which was published in The Celtic Twilight in 1893. In this essay, Yeats gives a meticulous account of Howth ghosts, immortalising their spirits. These spirits include the headless individual on the quay, the white-capped woman by the cemetery and the Devil himself who appeared in the shape of a white cat at Hospital Lane.

The great news of vaccine developments is getting us excited and hopeful again. In this positive spirit we want to give people some inspiration on places to visit in Howth when it is safe again to do so. The Abbey Tavern is at the top of our list of places to visit and is located right in the heart of Howth village. It is a world famous Traditional Irish Pub, Restaurant and Entertainment Venue with a unique 16th century location. So if you’re on the hunt for great food and drink, a lively atmosphere and lots of interesting historical information-look no further!

The Abbey Tavern occupies a section of the original 11th Century site of St Mary’s Abbey, which was founded in 1042 by the Viking Sigtrygg II Silkbeard Olafsson – King of Dublin, who also founded Christchurch Cathedral. Parts of The Abbey Tavern building itself date back to the 16th century, when it was built as an addition to the original chapterhouse to serve as a seminary for the monks.

The Abbey Tavern has hosted many stars of the cinema and music world as well as royalty. The famous names who have visited this charming pub include Princess Grace and Prince Rainier of Monaco, Ted Kennedy, Katherine Hepburn, John Wayne, Kate Beckinsdale, Neil Diamond, Garth Brooks, Pierce Brosnan and the stars of “Jackass”. The Abbey Tavern Traditional Irish night is a fantastic event and many famous trad artists such as The Dubliners, The Chieftans, Johnny McEvoy, Planxty and Christy Moore have graced the stage.

Whether it’s history, culture, shopping or great food Howth can deliver the goods. Make sure to check these sweet spots off your list.

Howth Market

This lively weekend market contains up to 25 stalls selling artisanal foods, baked treats, jewellery, gifts, curios, antiques, clothing and more!

The Hurdy Gurdy Vintage Radio Museum

This quirky museum is located in a restored Martello tower overlooking Howth Harbour and features a wide range of vintage radios, gramophones and music boxes.

St. Mary’s Abbey

Sitric, Viking King of Dublin, no doubt recognized the superb views of Howth Bay from this location when he founded the earliest church here in 1042. The church was replaced around 1235 by an abbey and amalgamated with the monastery on Ireland's Eye. The views from this location have remained spectacular. 

Wrights of Howth

Situated prominently on Howth’s West Pier the Wright family’s fishmongers and speciality food store is one of the oldest in the area.They proudly claim to have been smoking Irish salmon since 1893, using the same techniques of hand filleting, curing in sea salt and smoking over oak chips for eight hours. 

The Dog House Tea Rooms

This gem is hidden away inside the arch of the old railway bridge and is definitely one not to miss. Serving an outstanding array of delicious teas, coffees and indulgent desserts this place is a firm favourite for many a Howth native and visitor.

The Summit Inn

After working up an appetite, The Summit Inn pub is the best place to stop and have a well-deserved rest at the top of Howth Hill . Their chicken wings have continually been voted some of the very best in Dublin and we attest to that!

The cliff walk or cycle