Ireland - Dudbin outskirts

Dun Laoghaire is on the way, Howth is the other direction. But if it were me, I would just drive on to Kilkenny. It's only a couple of hours.

I agree. Just did not know if it would be a huge shock driving right away, or settling in for a night. Thanks.

Most flights from the US arrive in the morning. I wouldn't want to waste a day hanging around Dun Laoghaire when you want to be in Kilkenny. Of course driving on the other side of the road will take some adjustment, but that's pretty minor. On my last trip there, I drove from Shannon to Blarney on my first day.

Howth! It's the most beautiful old fishermen's harbor... I recommend staying at Ann's Guesthouse (budget) or next door at the King Sitric (a bit more expensive). However, do have dinner at the King Sitric anyway.

Both accommodations have seaview rooms and free parking.

I've never been to Dun Laoghaire but I can certainly recommend Howth. We took a day trip there from Dublin. I wished we had stayed the night. What a quaint town on the ocean! We even had the chance to see a few seals swimming in the harbor. They had a very cool farmers market set up near the train station with everything from beer to soup and homemade breads and pastries. We explored the waterfront and then walked up town (or up hill) to visit the old church and cemetery along with the many fine traditional local pubs. We stayed all day and left in the evening.

I would just drive on to Kilkenney. Driving on left is not that hard to get used to doing, just get automatic and be careful around the circles. Enjoy.

I would also drive straight to Kilkenny. It took us 2 hours. We arrived in time for lunch and a look around town and the castle before checking in to our B&B. I wouldn't want to waste a day staying in either one of those places unless you want to see them anyway.