Howth began as a Viking settlement. When a harbour was constructed in the early 19th century the town became the main packet station in Dublin. The Howth road was built soon afterwards to connect Howth with the city. The town's status during this century was marked by a visit from King George IV in 1821. His footprints are still visible at the end of the West Pier. However, Howth's harbour began to silt up and Dun Laoghaire took over in the mid-19th century as the most important harbour. In 1914, a ship called the Asgard, owned by Erskine Childers, arrived into Howth with a cargo of 900 rifles and 25,000 rounds of ammunition to arm the nationalist uprising.

An original work of art by Thomas Bell. This is Howth Harbour on a calm day.