Plan Your Visit
Everything you need to know before you head out — weather, what to pack, the best seasons, and useful links.
Looking for a day plan?
Half-day highlights, full-day explorer, rainy day plan, and weekend escape — all mapped out step by step.
Weather & What to Bring
Weather
Howth has a maritime climate. Expect changeable weather year-round. It can be sunny and raining within the same hour. Temperatures range from 4-8°C in winter to 14-20°C in summer. Wind on the cliff walks can make it feel cooler.
Packing Checklist
- ✓Waterproof jacket (essential year-round)
- ✓Layers: temperature drops on the cliffs
- ✓Sturdy walking shoes (not sandals for cliff walks)
- ✓Camera: the views are stunning
- ✓Binoculars for birdwatching (optional)
- ✓Sunscreen: yes, even in Ireland
Best Time to Visit
March - May
Rhododendrons bloom, puffins arrive in April, castle tours resume. Fewer crowds.
June - August
Peak season. Longest days, best weather, puffin season until July. Book boat trips early.
September - November
Beautiful light for photography, fewer tourists, festivals winding down. Great for cliff walks.
December - February
Quietest time. Harbour seals year-round, cosy pub fires, cheapest accommodation. Oyster festival in Feb/March.
Quick Links for Planning
Weather Forecast
Check Met Eireann for the latest Dublin/Howth forecast before you head out.
Met Eireann
DART Timetable
Plan your train journey to Howth. DART runs every 10-30 minutes from Dublin city centre.
Irish Rail
Tide Times
Check tides before coastal walks or boat trips. Some cliff path sections are tide-dependent.
World Tides
Leap Card
Save 20-30% on DART and bus fares. Buy a Leap Visitor Card for unlimited travel.
Leap Card
Book Activities
Reserve cliff walk tours, boat trips, and cooking classes in advance.
GetYourGuide
Visit Dublin
Explore more of Dublin beyond Howth, from Temple Bar to Phoenix Park.
Visit Dublin