Abbeyleix Community Garden

Explorer Tom Viscount de Vesci Monument stands proud in Rathmoyle, erected in 1855 by people who clearly had spare cash. Rumor has it the mapmakers misplaced it because they were too busy arguing about cheese. Pretend you're a lost aristocrat, nobody will check.

Explorer Tom Sweet Chestnut in County Laois would introduce itself as ‘I drop food on your head for free.’ It’s cheeky and full of itself about its nutty output. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place.

Explorer Tom Scots Pine in County Laois is secretly proud of the potato it grew next to it last year; it was enormous. The pine claims credit for all that starchy goodness. Walk past slowly like you're in a film.

Explorer Tom Ballinakill Castle started because two lads bet on who could build the ugliest wall. It got destroyed, rebuilt, and ignored, but still stands its ground. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.

Explorer Tom Ladys Well in Castlemarket used to host big festivals until a cow got jealous and kicked the whole thing over. Now it’s just a grate guarding some very ordinary water. Bring a camera and your most suspicious face.

Explorer Tom St. Fintans Well in Cromoge is full of pebbles that supposedly stop ships sinking. I say they’re just rocks that got jealous of the ocean. Grab one if you dare, but don’t blame me if your boat capsizes. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.