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Discover Howth Castle Estate & walk The Ancient Howth Village

1 Review 5.00 out of 5 stars Based on 1 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor | Recommended by 100% of reviewers | Dublin, Ireland

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On average, this is booked 33 (0) days in advance.

2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)
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Offered in: English

Overview

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.

What's Included

  • Wifi

    Meeting Location

    Meeting point

    Howth
    Dublin, Ireland

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    Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

    End point

    This activity ends back at the meeting point.

    What To Expect

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    Howth Castle And Estate

    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
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    30 minutes • Admission Ticket Included

    Howth Dolmen - Aideen's Grave Portal Tomb

    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.
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    15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Howth (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.
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    Balscadden Bay Beach (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.
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    Howth Martello Tower

    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.
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    15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    St. Mary's Parish

    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.
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    15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Howth Lighthouse

    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.
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    15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

    Howth Harbour

    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. ⚓
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    15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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    Additional Info

    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Accessible for those with limited mobility
    • Operated by a business

    Frequently Asked Questions

    (6)

    Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Discover Howth Castle Estate & walk The Ancient Howth Village?

    A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (IST). Read more Apr 2025

    Cancellation Policy

    You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

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    Activity code: C-89490P7

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    Reviews

    5.00
    1 reviews

    Average 5.00 out of 5 stars based on 1 traveler reviews collected by Cool Destinations and partner sites such as Trustpilot, Viator, and TripAdvisor

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    • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
    • Accessible for those with limited mobility
    • Operated by a business

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