Our stay at Brian’s flat was perfect. The studio is really well located with nice view on the harbour, has huge space, with lots of lights thanks to the large windows. It is really cosy, well decorated, with lots of art books and has its own atmosphere. The big sofa is great for watching television but what we liked most was the king size bed with really sweet sheets and huge pillows. We slept so well!
The bathroom is full of huge and very smooth towels.
On the fridge, we found all we needed for a good breakfast to start the day: butter, yogurt, milk, orange juice,…but we had also jam, full of tea, coffee, bread and delicious shortbreads at our disposal.
Howth is a really charming fishing village at only 30 minutes by train from Dublin. We walked on the pier to the lighthouse and we took a walk on the beautiful cliffs with dramatic scenery. Even if it was a bit cold and raining, it was very relaxing.
Brian was very available before our arrival and during our stay and gave us good tips for restaurants in Howth. We went to the “Brass Monkey” (excellent fish and chips), to the Octopussy (great seafood and clam chowder), at only 5 minutes’ walk from the studio. For breakfast, we recommend “The House” (really cosy restaurant serving delicious full irish breakfast with good tea, scones and porridge). The Findlater pub (only a few meters from the flat) was very welcoming for a good Guiness after our walk.
If I had one little thing to notice, I would say that even if the large period windows wich give on the little harbour are beautiful, they could need double glassing because the street below is a bit noisy (but we get quickly used to it). It could also need a bit more isolation but as we had good electrical heaters, the flat had a really good inside temperature.
We would definitely recommand Howth and especially Brian's flat for a relaxing stay away from the stress of daily life.
Caroline and Benjamin, february 2016