Howth Head

Howth Head is a rocky headland that juts into the sea in north Dublin Bay. It is an area of wild, natural beauty that supports an array of wildflowers, gorse and other heathland vegetation. Howth Head supports two habitats that are listed on the European Union (EU) Habitat Directive, sea cliffs and dry heaths, and is listed as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).

Howth Map

Two paths wind around the upper slopes above the sea cliffs, where people can enjoy walking through the colourful patchwork of heathland vegetation. Blazing yellow gorse and vibrant purple heathers contrast with the grasses, while navelwort and the delicate pink shades of the wood sage occupy more open, rocky areas of the headland.

Nearer to the summit of Howth Head, some small bogs occur that support typical bogland species, such as Bog Asphodel and Sundew. Elsewhere, there are scrublands with Downey Birch, Blackthorn, Hawthorn and Willow.

Seabirds

Howth Head is also a significant national breeding ground for seabirds. The sea cliffs provide an ideal habitat for species such as Fulmar, Shag, Gulls, Guillemot and Razorbill.