Escape The Busy City Of Dublin On One Of Ireland's Best Day Trips For Outdoor Adventure

It would be a mistake to write off Howth as just another Dublin suburb. Located a little more than 10 miles northeast of the capital of Ireland, the town of Howth occupies the northeastern coast of Howth Head, a rocky peninsula connected to the mainland by a land bridge formed thousands of years ago. Although it's only a short distance from Dublin, the vibe in Howth is decidedly more relaxed, and you'll see why Ireland is considered the friendliest European destination. These are just some of many traits that makes it a top pick for day trips and weekend getaways from Ireland's largest city.

Dublin to Howth is a short hop by car averaging 25 minutes when traffic cooperates, but central parking during peak season can be problematic. To avoid unnecessary headaches, consider booking ahead through a parking app. If you're day tripping from Dublin, the DART train connects Connolly Station in Dublin to Howth Station on the waterfront in about 30 minutes.

Howth has played a long and storied role in Ireland's history. Even the town's name reflects the diverse influences that have shaped the island nation's culture, including occupation by Nordic Vikings in the 1st century A.D. It's believed the word Howth is a derivation of the Old Norse word for head, a reference to the town's location on the northeast shore of Howth Head, a strategically important base for securing the waters connecting outposts in Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. It served a similar purpose during the 12th-century Anglo-Norman occupation. In fact, research suggests Howth's first castle, appropriately known as Howth Castle, was built in the 12th century on a site overlooking the harbor. The castle that occupies the site today dates to the 13th century and reflects modifications made in the 15th, 17th, 18th, and 20th centuries.

More than eight centuries after the construction of the first fortress, Howth Castle continues to hold a place of honor among the town's top attractions. The 472-acre preserve is home to three golf courses and a well-regarded cookery school offering a full roster of hands-on cooking classes, including some geared specifically to teens and tweens. A centerpiece of the estate, the Rhododendron Woodland dates to 1854 and features more than 200 different varieties of rhododendrons that burst into bloom annually from late April through late May. Because the castle remains a private residence, tours are by appointment only, but the grounds including the golf courses, cookery school, a café bar, and the Rhododendron Woodland are open to the public.

Another site of historic significance, Martello Tower dates to 1805. A relic from the early-19th-century conflict between Great Britain and Napoleon Bonapart, the round stone tower — one of many similar outposts guarding the coastline — stands watch over Howth Harbor. In an interesting twist, the one-time garrison is now home to a museum showcasing the history of radio. Founded in 2003 by antique radio enthusiast Pat Herbert, Ye Olde Hurdy Gurdy Museum of Vintage Radio ranks among the world's quirkiest museums. More than 1,000 exhibits, featuring everything from early Morse equipment, gramophones, and crystal sets to vintage posters, telegrams, and televisions, trace the evolution of telecommunications. While you're making the rounds, be sure to check out the National Transport Museum of Ireland. Founded in an effort to preserve mid-20th-century trams, the museum is Ireland's sole collection of vintage public, private, commercial, and military vehicles, the oldest of which dates to 1883. 

But there's more to Howth than history and artifacts. The town's location on the shores of Dublin Bay makes it an ideal setting for taking in breathtaking vistas and water-based activities.

To get the lay of the land, grab a cup of coffee — Bodega at Howth Market is a good bet and its pastries earn rave reviews — and head to the harborfront to watch the fleet come and go. For a more active day, consider a hike along the Howth Cliff Loop. The five-mile round-trip trail — begins and ends at Howth Railway Station — takes about two hours to complete and offers spectacular bay views. Bring your binoculars. Make a day of it and pick up the fixings for a picnic lunch at Howth Market before you hit the trail.

With so much to see and do in Howth, day trippers may want to consider a curated adventure. Locally owned Hidden Howth Experiences variety of general and special-interest itineraries. Ancient Village Adventure serves up the history of Howth with a side of local culture. Food-centric tours are a great way to get to know a destination. Dublin Coastal Craft Beer and Seafood Trail offers a taste of Howth's seafaring history in the form of local seafood and craft beer. For a different perspective, consider a kayak tour. The three-hour adventure includes safety instruction, all gear including a wetsuit, and snacks. Following a route along the Howth coastline you'll pass by the oft-photographed Baily Lighthouse and get up close and personal with seals cavorting in Dublin Bay.

End the day with a beer and a bite at one of Howth's local pubs. Abbey Tavern has a rustic vibe and is known for its corned beef dinner. Located on Howth Pier, O'Connell's offers great views with outside seating and live music on weekends. Or go upscale and end your day trip on a high note at Mamo. The Michelin-recommended restaurant showcases modern Irish cuisine served in an elegant setting.