Looking for the best pubs in Howth? Let me share some of my favourites with you. Each visit to Howth’s pubs has been a delightful adventure, revealing unique spots that offer something special every time.
Imagine stepping into a cosy pub with a friendly atmosphere, where the staff greet you warmly and the drinks are top-notch. That’s what you’ll find in Howth. Whether you’re after a quiet pint or a lively night with friends, these pubs have it all.
I love the variety in Howth’s pub scene. From traditional settings to modern vibes, each pub provides an unforgettable experience. So, next time you’re in Howth, make sure to check out these fantastic pubs. You won’t be disappointed!
☝️ How we rated the services below:
When I review the best pubs in Howth, I focus on key criteria to ensure a memorable experience:
- Ambience and Atmosphere: I look for a pub with a lively yet cosy vibe, making me feel comfortable and at home.
- Quality of Drinks: I taste a variety of beers and spirits to ensure they offer top-notch selections that satisfy different preferences.
- Service and Friendliness: I pay attention to how the staff treat me, valuing warm, efficient service that makes me feel welcome.
- Cleanliness and Hygiene: I check that the pub is clean, from the seating area to the restrooms, ensuring it meets high hygiene standards.
- Entertainment and Extras: I look for special features like live music, quiz nights, or unique decor that enhance my overall experience.
Our Favourite Places in Dublin & Ireland
🍺 GUINNESS STOREHOUSE – Experience the Home of Guinness
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🚍 CLIFFS OF MOHER – Full-Day adventure from Dublin to the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher & Galway.
🇮🇪 HOP ON HOP OFF BUS – Dublin City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
🎟 DUBLIN PASS – Go City All-Inclusive Pass for 40+ top attractions including Guinness Storehouse and Hop-On Hop-Off tours
Best Pubs in Howth: Experience Unforgettable Nights at Top Local Spots!
☝️Our team, family, and friends spent countless evenings exploring and testing the best pubs in Howth to bring you this definitive list. We experienced each pub to ensure you enjoy the finest drinks and atmospheres.
The Abbey Tavern
⭐ An Unfiltered Assessment of The Abbey Tavern:
What a remarkable experience I had at The Abbey Tavern in Howth! The moment I tasted their corned beef, I knew I was in for a treat. Tender and bursting with flavour, it was cooked to absolute perfection. Every bite felt like a celebration of Irish culinary tradition.
The prices were pleasantly surprising, offering great value without skimping on quality. It’s rare to find such delicious food at such reasonable rates, especially compared to other spots in Dublin. This place truly knows how to balance taste and affordability.
The atmosphere was equally enchanting—cosy and inviting, with a charming rustic vibe. The staff were incredibly friendly and attentive; they made me feel right at home from the get-go. If you’re ever in Howth, do yourself a favour and visit The Abbey Tavern. You won’t regret it! Have you ever experienced such delightful dining?
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Mouthwatering corned beef, tender and flavourful.
- Reasonable prices, exceptional value for money.
- Charming ambiance, cosy and inviting atmosphere.
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁All the Facts About: The Abbey Tavern
| Name | The Abbey Tavern |
| Website | http://www.abbeytavern.ie/ |
| Address | 28 Abbey St, Howth, Dublin, D13 E9V4, Ireland |
| Contact Details | (01) 839 0307 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Closed Tuesday: Closed Wednesday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Thursday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Friday: 12:30 PM – 12:30 AM Saturday: 12:30 PM – 12:30 AM Sunday: 12:30 – 11:00 PM |
| Services | Pub in Howth |
| Google Rating | 4.5 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 1966+ reviews |
| Customer Reviews | What Customers had to say: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟… I recently had the pleasure of dining at Abbey Tavern in Howth, Ireland, and let me tell you, it was an amazing experience! 🍀😋… |
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O’Connells Pub & Restaurant
⭐ Our Honest Opinion of O’Connells Pub & Restaurant:
O’Connells Pub & Restaurant in Howth, Dublin, is a real treasure! Imagine savouring a pint of Moretti while basking in the warm glow of evening heaters in their covered outside booths. The atmosphere here is nothing short of electric, with friendly staff who go above and beyond to ensure your comfort.
After an invigorating 27km walk from Dun Laoghaire, my friends and I indulged in a feast that left us utterly satisfied. We started with Brie, Calamari, and mussels shared among us before diving into mains like fish and chips, fish pie, and scampi. Each dish was faultless – fresh, flavourful, and perfectly cooked. Even on St Patrick’s Day, the service was impeccable.
Spending an afternoon at O’Connells means enjoying good pub grub while listening to folk music with a stunning harbour view. The crab and haddock skillet was particularly memorable. Whether you’re popping in for a quick pint or settling down for a meal, this place never disappoints!
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Nice pint of Moretti
- Great atmosphere and comfortable pub
- Covered outside booths with heaters
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁♂️All the Facts About: O’Connells Pub & Restaurant
| Name | O’Connells Pub & Restaurant |
| Website | http://oconnellshowth.ie/ |
| Address | E Pier, Howth, Dublin, Ireland |
| Contact Details | (01) 839 5087 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Tuesday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Thursday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Friday: 12:30 PM – 12:30 AM Saturday: 12:30 PM – 12:30 AM Sunday: 12:30 – 11:00 PM |
| Services | Pub in Howth |
| Google Rating | 4.5 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 1983+ reviews |
| Customer Reviews | What Customers had to say: Nice pint of Moretti. Great atmosphere and very comfortable pub. Covered outside booths with heaters in the evening are a nice touch. Staff were helpf… We had a fantastic meal here yesterday after walking the 27km over to Howth from Dunlaoghaire. We had the Brie, Calamari and the muscles shared betwee… |
The Harbour Bar
⭐ Our Unvarnished Impressions of The Harbour Bar:
Stepping into The Harbour Bar feels like discovering a hidden treasure in Howth. This cosy, friendly bar instantly won me over with its warm atmosphere and the inviting crackle of a fireplace. The Guinness here is nothing short of exceptional – perfectly drafted and incredibly tasty. It’s the kind of place where you can easily lose track of time while enjoying a pint or two.
One unique feature that adds to its charm is the collection of foreign banknotes adorning the walls. As a tourist, I found it delightful to contribute to this eclectic display, adding my own little piece to their global tapestry. It’s these small touches that make The Harbour Bar stand out from other pubs.
And let’s not forget about the cats! These furry friends add an extra layer of comfort and homeliness to the experience. If you’re in Howth, missing out on this remarkable spot would be a real shame!
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Cosy atmosphere with a fireplace
- Exceptional drafted Guinness
- Friendly bar with charming cats
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁All the Facts About: The Harbour Bar
| Name | The Harbour Bar |
| Website | https://www.instagram.com/theharbourbar_howth/ |
| Address | 18 Church St, Howth, Dublin, D13 V048, Ireland |
| Contact Details | (01) 564 5891 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Tuesday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Thursday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Friday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM Saturday: 12:30 PM – 12:30 AM Sunday: 12:30 – 11:30 PM |
| Services | Pub in Howth |
| Google Rating | 4.5 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 405+ reviews |
| Customer Reviews | What Customers had to say: Wonderful place to have a drink or two. Cosy atmosphere with a fireplace. Really good drafted Guinness…. No food as far as I know…. |
McNeills of Howth (The Tophouse)
⭐ An Unfiltered Assessment of McNeills of Howth (The Tophouse):
McNeills of Howth (The Tophouse) is a real treasure in the heart of Howth. With its charming traditional pub vibe, it’s an inviting spot for anyone seeking a genuine Irish experience. The staff are not only polite but also engaging, making you feel like part of the local scene. The food selection is impressive, and the pints? Absolutely top-notch.
On my first post-COVID trip from London to Dublin, I made a beeline for this great bar. The atmosphere remains as vibrant as ever, with lively conversations flowing freely thanks to the friendly bar keeps. There’s even a billiards table where locals play competitive 8-ball for €2 a game – quite the spectacle with plenty of enthusiastic onlookers.
What sets McNeills apart is its dual nature: one side offers a more “blue collar” feel while the other caters to higher-end pub-goers. Whether you’re after a quiet pint of Guinness or exploring their excellent variety of whiskies and artisanal beers, this place has it all. Truly an exceptional find!
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Charming traditional pub vibe
- Polite and engaging staff
- Impressive food selection
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁♀️All the Facts About: McNeills of Howth (The Tophouse)
| Name | McNeills of Howth (The Tophouse) |
| Website | http://www.mcneillsofhowth.ie/ |
| Address | 19 Main St, Howth, Dublin, Ireland |
| Contact Details | (01) 839 6636 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Thursday: 12:00 – 11:30 PM Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:30 AM Sunday: 12:30 – 11:00 PM |
| Services | Pub in Howth |
| Google Rating | 4.5 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 778+ reviews |
| Customer Reviews | What Customers had to say: Nice big traditional pub with loads of tables and TVs around…. Polite staff, awesome food selection and tasty pints, super recommended!… |
The Bloody Stream
⭐ Our Genuine Review of The Bloody Stream:
Stepping into The Bloody Stream feels like discovering a hidden gem in Howth. The atmosphere is incredibly inviting, with a cosy fire that’s perfect after a windy stroll around the harbour. I was particularly impressed by the lunch special – mussels and seafood chowder, which were both absolutely delicious. And of course, pairing it with a pint of Guinness made it all the more enjoyable!
The food here is simply fantastic. On another visit, I tried the seabass special and my friend opted for the vegan burger. Let me tell you, it was one of the best burgers I’ve had in ages! The fries were perfectly crisp too. This place truly knows how to cater to diverse tastes without compromising on quality.
What really sets this pub apart is its friendly staff and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re there for cocktails or just a hearty meal, you’ll feel right at home. Have you ever found such an inviting spot? Trust me, it’s worth every minute of your trip from Dublin!
👍 Our Reasons for Recommending:
- Inviting atmosphere with cosy fire
- Delicious food, especially seafood chowder
- Friendly and attentive staff
🙏 Areas for Improvement & Potential Drawbacks:
Our thoughts on how to improve, based on online feedback and our personal experiences. Please keep in mind that reviews may reflect specific situations.
- No Complains or Recommendations
💁♂️All the Facts About: The Bloody Stream
| Name | The Bloody Stream |
| Website | http://bloodystream.ie/ |
| Address | Howth Railway Station, Howth, Dublin, Ireland |
| Contact Details | (01) 839 5076 |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM Thursday: 11:00 AM – 11:30 PM Friday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 AM Saturday: 11:00 AM – 2:30 AM Sunday: 12:00 PM – 1:00 AM |
| Services | Pub in Howth |
| Google Rating | 4.3 Stars out of 5 |
| Total Reviews | 2284+ reviews |
| Customer Reviews | What Customers had to say: We heard great things and were recommended to the Bloody Stream, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere is very inviting and the food was fantasti… So impressed with this little pub! Had lunch, we ordered the seabass special and vegan burger. One of the better burgers Ive eaten in the UK and the f… |
⚠️ Expertise and Transparency – Our Review and Ranking Process: At HeyDublin, we are committed to providing comprehensive, trustworthy, and unbiased reviews. Our review and ranking process involves extensive research, testing, and verification by our team of experts.
Learn more about our review and ranking process.
My Final Thoughts
Exploring the best pubs in Howth has been an absolute delight, with each visit revealing something new and special. From cosy corners perfect for a quiet pint to lively bars with fantastic music and atmosphere, there’s a pub for every mood. The combination of excellent drinks, friendly service, and unique charm makes these Howth pubs a must-visit. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, I assure you that these top spots will provide an unforgettable experience. So next time you’re in Howth, be sure to check out these fantastic pubs and enjoy all they have to offer.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Pubs in Howth
What are the best pubs in Howth for a cosy atmosphere?
I love finding pubs in Howth that offer a warm and inviting atmosphere. These cosy spots are perfect for a relaxed evening with friends.
Where can I find the best drinks in Howth pubs?
In Howth, several pubs serve exceptional drinks. I recommend exploring the local favourites known for their quality pints and creative cocktails.
Are there pubs in Howth with live music?
Yes, many pubs in Howth feature live music. I enjoy visiting these spots to experience great tunes and lively performances that enhance the pub atmosphere.
Which pubs in Howth have the best food?
Some pubs in Howth serve fantastic food alongside their drinks. I often look for those offering a delicious menu that complements the pub experience.
Do any pubs in Howth have outdoor seating?
Yes, there are pubs in Howth with outdoor seating. I enjoy these spots, especially on a nice day, where I can sip my drink and enjoy the fresh air.
What are some family-friendly pubs in Howth?
Howth has several family-friendly pubs. I find these places great for a casual meal or drink with the whole family, providing a welcoming environment for everyone.
Are there pet-friendly pubs in Howth?
Yes, some pubs in Howth are pet-friendly. I love bringing my dog to these pubs, which offer a great atmosphere for both pet owners and their furry friends.
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