Discover Howth Castle Estate and Coastal Fishing Village

About This Tour

Step back in time and explore the historic coastal village of Howth, where centuries of history, legend and maritime life come together. This guided walk begins in lively Howth Harbour, home to colourful fishing boats, famous seafood shops and the harbour’s curious seals. Along the pier you’ll discover the story behind King George IV’s footprints, left here during his memorable visit in 1821.

We then wander through the charming streets of the old village before entering the beautiful Howth Castle Estate, home to the St Lawrence family for over 800 years. Hidden within the estate lies Aideen’s Grave, an ancient tomb linked to Irish mythology and the legendary love story of Aideen and the warrior Oscar.

The journey continues to the historic Martello Tower, built during the Napoleonic Wars to defend Dublin Bay, where spectacular views stretch across the sea to Ireland’s Eye, an island rich in wildlife, ruins and local legend.

What’s Included

• Wifi

Itinerary

1. Step into the beautiful grounds of Howth Castle Estate, one of the oldest continuously occupied estates in Ireland. For over 800 years this historic home belonged to the St. Lawrence family, whose story is woven into the history of Howth itself.

As we wander through the peaceful parkland surrounding the castle, you’ll hear fascinating tales of medieval lords, local legends and the traditions that shaped life here for centuries. The estate offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of Howth, where history, nature and storytelling come together in one of the village’s most historic settings (30 min) 2. Discover Aideen’s Grave, an ancient tomb steeped in Irish legend and believed to date back thousands of years. Located within the beautiful grounds of the Howth Castle Estate, this mysterious site is linked to the tragic love story of Aideen and the warrior Oscar from Irish mythology, bringing Ireland’s ancient folklore to life. (15 min) 3. Stroll through the charming streets of Howth village, exploring its colourful shops, local markets and lively harbour atmosphere. Along the way you’ll discover hidden corners, local stories and the unique character that makes this historic fishing village so special. ️ (pass by) 4. We walk through this historic abbey (first built in 1042), by King Sitric - an old Viking king in Dublin. (15 min) 5. Visit the historic Martello Tower, built during the Napoleonic Wars to defend Dublin Bay. From this dramatic viewpoint we’ll take in spectacular coastal views across the sea to Ireland’s Eye, a small island rich in wildlife, ancient ruins and local legend. ️ (15 min) 6. Explore Howth Harbour, the lively heart of the village where fishing boats, seafood shops and maritime history shape daily life. As we walk along the pier you may spot the famous harbour seals and discover the story behind King George IV’s footprints, left here during his memorable visit to Howth. ⚓ (30 min) 7. Walk to Howth Lighthouse, standing proudly at the edge of the harbour. From here we’ll uncover the dramatic story of the Howth Gun-Running of 1914, when Irish Volunteers landed a shipment of rifles on this very pier—an event that became a pivotal moment in Ireland’s fight for independence. ⚓ (15 min)

Meeting point: Howth Train Station at the Bloody Stream Pub

Good to Know

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Service animals allowed
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Maximum group size: 15 travelers. Available in: en.