National Transport Museum of Ireland

Housed in the Heritage Depot within the grounds of Howth Castle, the National Transport Museum of Ireland displays a large collection of road‑transport vehicles from c.1883–1984. The collection focuses on public and commercial transport and is maintained and presented by volunteers.

The museum is only open limited hours (weekends and bank holidays), making it a good shorter stop when visiting Howth rather than a full‑day attraction. Access is via the castle gates and it sits a short walk from Howth DART and local bus stops.

A compact, volunteer‑run display of buses, coaches, commercial vehicles and related ephemera illustrating Ireland’s road transport history.

Look out for:

• Restored and preserved buses and coaches spanning late 19th to 20th century designs.

• Period signage, uniforms and transport memorabilia that add social context.

• Informal guided chats from volunteers who help explain vehicle histories.

• The museum’s setting in former farm/stable buildings inside Howth Castle grounds.

Best way to experience it:

Visit on a Saturday, Sunday or bank holiday afternoon (museum hours are limited). Combine the stop with a walk around Howth village and the nearby cliff paths; allow around 45–90 minutes for the collection and volunteer‑led info.

• Open Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays, 14:00–17:00 (check the museum website before visiting).

• Entry via the main gates of Howth Castle; grounds access required.

• About 730 m from Howth DART station and close to the bus stop opposite the castle gates.

• Volunteer‑run museum with limited facilities; phone contact available during opening hours.