Firstly I would leave it to 7.30 - 8 if you can. The shortest way is to head for Longford, then Strokestown, Ballaghdreen, Charlestown, Swinford, and Foxford. Personally I always head for Sligo, and turn off in Collooney, on to Ballisodare, and then Ballina. This route is about 10 miles longer, but it is a much better road, and time wise I would say there is very little difference.
Firstly I would leave it to 7.30 - 8 if you can. The shortest way is to head for Longford, then Strokestown, Ballaghdreen, Charlestown, Swinford, and Foxford. Personally I always head for Sligo, and turn off in Collooney, on to Ballisodare, and then Ballina. This route is about 10 miles longer, but it is a much better road, and time wise I would say there is very little difference.
There seems to be a problem with the AA route planning map.
I travel this route quite a lot. I always go out the M50 past Lucan and head for Longford. When you get to Longford Town at the Longford Arms Hotel take a left at the traffic lights there and head on then for Ballaghadereen, Charlestown, Swinford and Foxford - next town is Ballina. A few dodgy bendy roads so do take care.
I would definitely leave later to travel even leave around 7pm if you can and you should do it from Lucan in about 3 hours.
I'd go along the route magern uses. I have used both routes myself and have always found it longer to go via Strokestown. Roads are much better going via Sligo. I would say it will take about 3 hrs. Enjoy Ballina.