placenamesThe Summit
Mullach Bhinn Éadair
Howth Summit became a destination in its own right when electric trams carried visitors around the hill.
The name
These Irish name elements are associated with this record in the Logainm glossary.
An element’s translation is a clue, rather than a complete explanation of the name. Its form and meaning depend on local history and the full Irish name.
Recorded forms
- Mullach Bhinn Éadair · Irish · main form · validated name
- The Summit · English · main form
- Howth Summit · English · main form · local name
Place & story
The tramway’s high point
The Hill of Howth tramway reached the Summit in 1901, linking it with Sutton and Howth railway stations. At the stop, passengers found a wooden waiting shelter, parcel office and sweet shop. A small battery house helped maintain the electrical supply at the top of the hill. That building ceased its original function in 1934 and later became a home. [2]
Refreshments above the bay
The Great Northern Railway first offered refreshments at the Summit in a marquee, then built a tea pavilion beside the line. Bands entertained visitors on Sunday afternoons, but the venture struggled. The Earl of Howth would not permit alcohol sales on his land, and the pavilion burned down in 1918 without being rebuilt. The nearby Summit Inn also catered for the tramway’s visitors. [2]
Geographic information
Sources & further reading
- Logainm.ie — The Summit. Place names and geographic record, licensed under CC BY 4.0.
- Trams to the Hill of Howth, 1901–1959, exhibition panels · Fingal Local Studies and Archives / Fingal County Council
Name record retrieved 2026-10-25 · Source record modified 2024-06-28. How this page was prepared.