our story

the history of the bloody stream

In August 1177, during the second Norman invasion of Ireland, a fierce battle was fought near this spot between Norman forces led by Sir Almeric Tristram and the Danes, who were occupying Evora Bridge. Blood from the fighting is said to have flowed into the nearby stream, giving rise to the name The Bloody Stream.

When this pub was built centuries later, that very stream was discovered running directly beneath it. After years of battling floods, peace was finally made with the water below, and the name was proudly kept.

Inside a cozy bar with a wooden counter, barstools, a colorful mural with musical notes, and alcohol bottles behind the bar.
Illustration of an ancient sailing ship with a dragon-shaped bow, sailing on water.
Yellow two-story building with black window frames and flower boxes, outside a seafood bar and café called 'The Bloody Stream', decorated with blue and yellow flags, and surrounded by a black metal fence and greenery.

our awards

Located beneath Howth DART station, The Bloody Stream is known for its lively atmosphere, great food and good old-fashioned Irish craic. Proud winners of Best Outdoor Space in Dublin at the Irish Pub Awards 2024 and Best Pub at the Fingal Chamber Awards, these accolades are a testament to our incredible customers.

Inside, you’ll find a warm, welcoming interior with a traditional Irish feel, from the open turf fire to classic pub memorabilia and carefully collected bric-a-brac, gathered since we opened in 1996. Outside, our beer garden is one of the largest in Dublin, welcoming over 500 guests and offering one of the best spots in Howth to enjoy a pint of Guinness in the sun.

Fingal Business Awards 2023 badge with gold stars and dark blue background, recognizing the best pub.
Award badge for Irish Pub Awards for Best Outdoor Space with stars, fork, mug, and microphone icons at the top.
Yellow building with blue sign reading 'Seafood THE BLOODY STREAM Bar Café'. Flower boxes on window sills with purple flowers, outdoor seating with people, and string flags in front. Green plants and bushes along the front fence, black lampposts, and a blue sky with clouds.
Cozy restaurant interior with brick walls, a fireplace with a lit fire, wooden furniture, candles, a painting of a man, a TV, and windows with diamond-pane glass.
A close-up of a stained glass window with red, blue, and green glass pieces, showing sunlight casting shadows on a nearby wall. Outside, red flowers and greenery are visible through the window.
A pint of Guinness stout beer with a creamy head and a plate of raw oysters garnished with green herbs and lemon wedges, with a small bowl of dipping sauce on a wooden table.
Interior of a cozy pub bar with a wooden counter, stools, shelves of liquor bottles, and wall art including a music-themed mural and signs.