ABOUT HOWTH

Howth Head is a peninsula northeast of the city of Dublin in Ireland, within the governance of Fingal County Council. Entry to the headland is at Sutton while the village of Howth and the harbour are on the north-eastern face.

Most of Howth Head is occupied by the Hill of Howth, though there are other regions, such as the tombolo at Sutton, extensive beaches on the northern shores, and small ones in other parts. The Baily Lighthouse is on the southeastern part of Howth Head.

Nearby are the districts of Baldoyle and Portmarnock, and adjacent is the nature reserve of North Bull Island.

Living in HOWTH

Howth Head is mentioned in the lyrics of the title track of Kate Bush's 1989 album, The Sensual World: '...took six big wheels and rolled our bodies / off of Howth Head and into the flesh, mmh, yes...'. 

The song is inspired by Molly Bloom's soliloquy in Joyce's Ulysses. The peninsula also features as the backdrop of multiple paintings by Irish artist William Orpen (1878-1931) and by American artist James Whistler.

Painting by Sir William Orpen - Grace reading at Howth Bay Howth Head is the setting of two scenes from the Tony Award-winning musical "Once.".

HOWTH EIRCODE:
D13

Things to do in HOWTH

Conveniently located beside the DART station, Howth Market is home to an array of Irish crafts, delicate handmade jewellery, and vintage antiques; perfect for gift shopping.

While you’re there, be sure to sample the  wide selection of organic foods on offer, like olives, cheeses, nuts and of course, delicious chocolate and cupcakes.

Or if you’re feeling peckish grab a burger, stir-fry or gooey pastrami melt sandwich for a picnic.

Less than a ten-minute walk from the market, you’ll find Howth Castle and Grounds.

Immerse yourself in history and take in the beautiful surrounding gardens, which are home to a ten-metre high hedge and the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey. 

Also in the castle, you’ll find restored Georgian kitchens, where cookery schools in The Kitchen in the Castle host half-day and evening classes.