Field guide
Running and hiking the Howth Cliff Path Loop
Plan your run or hike on the Howth Cliff Path Loop in Dublin. Find official details on the 7.8 km route, 130 m ascent, terrain, and start point.
The Howth Cliff Path Loop is a designated trail on Howth Head in County Dublin. It is a circular route that begins and ends at the same location, making it straightforward for navigation.
This guide provides official information about the route's length, difficulty, terrain, and key features to help you plan your activity.
Official facts at a glance
- Trail name
- Howth – Cliff Path Loop
- Location
- Howth Head, Howth, Co. Dublin
- Loop length
- 7.8 km
- Ascent
- 130 m
- Terrain
- Rough in parts
- Difficulty grade
- Moderate
- Start point
- Howth Railway Station
- Finish point
- Howth Railway Station
- Footwear recommendation
- Walking boots recommended
- Waymarking
- Green arrow on white background
- Notable views
- Spectacular views of Lambay Island, Ireland's Eye, and Dublin Bay
- Wildlife – birds
- Cliffs are great for birds
- Wildlife – seals
- Grey seals may be seen
Sources: Howth Head Walks (fingal.ie), Howth (sportireland.ie). Official pages, checked Oct 21, 2026.
Route details and difficulty
The complete loop is 7.8 km long and includes a total ascent of 130 m. The trail is officially graded as moderate in difficulty.
The terrain can be rough in parts. The path is marked with a green arrow on a white background to guide you along the route.
Location and access
The designated start and finish point for the Howth Cliff Path Loop is the Howth Railway Station.
Views and wildlife
The path offers views of Lambay Island, Ireland's Eye, and Dublin Bay.
The cliffs are a habitat for birds. It is also possible to see grey seals from the path.
Before you go
- The full loop is 7.8 km with a 130 m ascent.
- The trail starts and ends at the Howth Railway Station.
- Be prepared for terrain that is rough in some sections.
- Walking boots are the recommended footwear for this trail.
- Follow the waymarking, which is a green arrow on a white background.
Nearby options: running and active spots in Dublin. All cities: City running and hiking guides.