Ancient Paths of Howth Village with a Local and his Dog

From$350

2 hours

Dublin, Ireland

Full description

Join us on the Howth Heritage Quest, where ancient echoes and tales of adventure bring the past to life. From the mystical ruins of St. Mary's Abbey, resonating with centuries-old chants, to the formidable Martello Towers guarding the sea, every step is a story. Discover the audacious gun-running of Howth, pivotal in Ireland's fight for freedom, and be enchanted by the guiding light of Howth Lighthouse, a beacon through ages. Wander the King's Footprints and along Howth Harbour, where history mingles with the present in a dance of landscapes and legacies. Marvel at the breathtaking views of Ireland’s Eye, the vast Irish Sea, and serene Lambay Island, encapsulating the spirit of exploration. This journey is not just a tour; it's an invitation to witness the beauty, bravery, and resilience that shaped Howth. Join us for an unforgettable experience, where the tales of yesteryear become cherished memories.

Included / Excluded

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

Duration: 30 minAdmission: YES

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.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

3

Pass by: Discover the enchanting village of Howth, where each step through its ancient streets whispers tales of yore, leading to the dramatic beauty of Howth Head cliffs. Here, atop breathtaking vistas, the vast Irish Sea meets the sky, offering a moment of awe and connection with Ireland's natural splendor and storied past. This journey is an unforgettable embrace of history, nature, and the captivating spirit of Howth.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

4

Pass by: Perched on the edge of Howth, our path leads us to a vantage point overlooking Balscadden Bay, a hidden jewel of the Irish Sea. Here, the serene waters meet rugged cliffs in a stunning display of natural beauty. The bay, with its tranquil azure hues and the gentle sound of waves, offers a moment of peace and reflection. This panoramic view, framed by the wild Irish landscape, captures the essence of Howth's breathtaking coastal charm, inviting us to pause and absorb the serene majesty of the world around us.

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE

5

Our expedition leads us to the storied grounds of the Tower, an imposing structure crafted in 1803 as a bulwark against Napoleon's ambitions. Standing sentinel over Howth, this historic bastion offers us breathtaking panoramic views, a sweeping tableau that captures the essence of the peninsula’s rugged beauty. As we gaze out from this strategic vantage point, we delve into tales of its pivotal role in defense and vigilance, a testament to the area's historical significance. It's a moment to stand where sentries once watched, feeling the weight of history under the expansive sky, connecting us to centuries of guardianship and the enduring spirit of Howth.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

6

Our journey takes us through the hallowed ruins of an ancient abbey, first erected in the year 1042 by King Sitric, a legendary Viking king of Dublin. As we tread softly among the remnants of these sacred walls, we're walking in the footsteps of history, enveloped by the echoes of a millennium. Here, amid the whispering shadows, the past comes alive, inviting us to imagine the lives and legacies that have unfolded in this very place. This is a rare moment to connect with the deep, enduring roots of Ireland, a bridge to a time when Vikings ruled the land and the abbey stood as a beacon of spiritual and temporal power.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

7

As we meander along the harbor, the iconic Howth Lighthouse emerges into view, standing as a sentinel at the edge of the sea. Here, against the backdrop of gentle waves and the distant call of seabirds, we'll delve into the riveting tale of the 'Gun Running of Howth' of 1914 — a pivotal moment in Irish history that unfolded right where we stand. It's a moment to connect with the past, to feel the pulse of Ireland's fight for freedom, all while surrounded by the serene beauty of Howth's maritime gateway.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

8

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. ⚓

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

Service Animals Allowed
Easy Public Transport

Good to know

Accessible for those with limited mobility

Traveler reviews

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Wonderful experience!

My husband and I decided to take this tour on a whim while we were staying in Dublin as part of our honeymoon. We had such a wonderful time with Mark and Missy (his adorable dog) and couldn't recommend this tour more to visitors. We got very lucky with the weather (sunny, 15c) however, we had such a positive experience, we agreed it would have been just as fun if it had been raining and gray. Mark was so kind, engaging, and warm which made the hike all the more fun and enjoyable. Howth was also extremely easy to get to via public transportation; one of my favorite things to figure out while traveling! The tour was about 4(ish) hours that included a gorgeous hike, a history tour, and a pint at the end with the entire group. There were also people from all over the world in the group and with Mark's care, everyone had the opportunity to chat and get to know each other. Overall, we feel very lucky to have found this gem.

paigemB5421XOSep 22, 2024TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Accessible for those with limited mobility