Black Linn Loop – Howth Cliff Walk

Overview

The Black Linn Loop is one of four colour‑coded routes that make up the Howth Cliff Walk. Marked with a red arrow on a white background, the loop is moderate in difficulty, stretches 8.10 km, climbs 160 m, and typically takes 2 h 30 min to complete. It begins and ends at Howth Railway Station (DART), making it easily reachable from Dublin by train, bus or car. The trail is free, open year‑round and showcases the peninsula’s most striking coastal scenery.

History & Background

Howth Head has been celebrated since the 11th‑century Norse records and later by James Joyce in Ulysses. The area served as a fishing hub, a defensive outpost and a favourite haunt for poets and naturalists. The Black Linn Loop follows historic pathways that once linked the village to the old tramline (operational 1901‑1959) and the local GAA club grounds. While the loop is a modern, purpose‑designed walking route, it preserves that heritage while offering spectacular views of Dublin Bay.

What to See & Do

• Harbour promenade – Start beside Howth Harbour, watching fishing boats and, on clear days, spotting grey seals.
• The Nose of Howth – A short ascent brings you around the headland’s “nose”, revealing sweeping vistas of Lambay Island and Ireland’s Eye.
• Baily Lighthouse – The red‑and‑white tower, the last Irish lighthouse to be fully automated, looms on a rugged outcrop as you approach the summit car park.
• Summit car park & Black Linn heath – From the car park you step onto the open hillside known locally as Black Linn, a gorse‑covered expanse that releases a distinctive coconut scent in summer.
• Ben of Howth – At the highest point (171 m above sea level) the loop offers a 360° panorama of Dublin Bay, the Wicklow Mountains and the Irish Sea.
• Old tramline remnants – The return leg follows the historic tram route, with iron rails still visible, adding an industrial echo to the natural landscape.
• Balkill Park estate & GAA grounds – Descend past the tranquil private estate and the local GAA club before re‑entering the village.
• Wildlife – Seabird colonies (kittiwakes, guillemots, razorbills) nest on the cliffs, and grey seals can be seen near the harbour.
• The Summit Inn – A traditional pub near the summit car park where walkers often pause for a drink.

A downloadable map is available from Sport Ireland: Black Linn Loop Map.

Practical Information

Getting There

Take the DART northbound from Dublin Connolly (or any central DART station) to Howth. The station is a short walk from the trailhead on the harbour promenade. Parking is limited in the village, so public transport is the recommended option.

Nearby Attractions

• Bailey Lighthouse – The historic lighthouse on the eastern side of Howth Head, reachable via a short walk from the loop. [/bailey-lighthouse/]
• Aideen’s Grave – A legendary dolmen located on the Howth peninsula, offering a quick detour for those interested in myth and history. [/aideens-grave/]
• Howth Castle & Gardens – A short walk back into the village brings you to the historic castle grounds, perfect for a post‑walk stroll.
• Howth Market – Open on weekends, the market provides local crafts, food stalls and a lively atmosphere.

Enjoy the blend of natural beauty, historic charm and coastal drama that makes the Black Linn Loop a highlight of Howth’s walking network.