I'll get on at Pearse Street and get off at Malahide. I want to make sure I don't end up in Howth instead. Are the trains clearly marked?Do I have to transfer at some point? Also, is it a long walk from the Malahide station to the castle? Thanks for your help.

your post brought me nice rememberings, thank you

Just ask at the station when the Malahide ones come. They also (if they are working) have the electronic signs stating the destinations of the trains and how many minutes until they arrive.

Malahide Castle is still a bit of a walk away just so you are aware. There is a great Garden Centre across the road from the Castle entrance that has a cafe with hot foods, salads etc. Its a nice break after the castle.

Siobhan....thanks for the information. About how far a walk is the castle from the station? More than a mile? Is it easy to find one's way to the castle from the station?

ttt in hopes Siobhan will see my newest question.

Martha - the castle is a nice 15 minute walk from the DART station in Malahide through the park.

I forgot about the park as I usually drive. Its a nice walk and bring and umbrella. Malahide is a nice place as well for a walk around. Plenty of restaurants and small shops. If you want to splash out a bit (Not a fortune but more expensive) go for lunch or Dinner at Cruzzos. Its located at the Marina and has lovely views and I think a piano player at night.

There is a cheap and cheerful Pizza place as well at the corner before heading to the marina (Marios?) It reminded me of a pizzeria in the U.S.

Thank you all for the very helpful replies. We leave tonight for Ireland, and so much of my trip has been planned with the help of this board. You're all great.