Avoirgold -
There is a lot to see in Kilkenny other than the design center.

The Castle ( really good tour)
Black Abbey ( filled with Stain Glass Windows)
the other Abbey ( can't remember the name this late at night :) ) that was converted to a brewery
St Canice's church

Skip Rothe house though - not worth it.

Outside of Kilkenny is a wealth of places:
Bennettsbridge ( craftstmen ) - Nicholas Mosse pottery
Jerpoint Glass Studio
Jerpoint Abbey - ruins
Mt Juliet Golf course - very cool - neat place to stop for lunch.

Debbie

Just a quick note to answer the sunrise question. In the middle of the country (gives you an average) sunset is at 7:58 on 9/10 and 7:41 on 9/17.

Bill