Adare Town Park

Explorer Tom The demesne walls in Blackabbey think the road leading to them is a bit too flashy for their taste. They prefer their stone craftsmanship understated and dignified. A good place to judge people by their driveways, actually.

Explorer Tom Countess Dunraven Fountain hides a smuggling route for contraband puddles that only flows during full moons. It was built to thank villagers for putting out a fire, which is a very specific thing to memorialize. Look for the ghost, then pretend you didn’t see anything.

Explorer Tom Adare Tourist Office in Limerick thinks the road leading to it is actually a test of character, designed specifically to break the spirits of overly enthusiastic visitors. It’s got a library, toilets, and opinions about your driving skills. Find the wonkiest bit and send it to your group chat.

Explorer Tom American Sweetgum is in a rivalry with a more famous tree just to prove it has better leaves. It’s not an Irish native, but it fits right in with its star-shaped foliage. Pick a stone, any stone, and invent its biography.

Explorer Tom European Yew in County Limerick has been standing around so long the Vikings got lost looking for it. They probably missed it because they were too busy arguing about compass bearings. Count the crows, then count again.

Explorer Tom Adare Desmond Castle was built in the twelfth century but got dismantled in 1657, which is quite rude. It nearly became famous for its restoration work instead of history. Great spot to propose. Or at least to propose lunch.

Explorer Tom Desmond Castle in County Limerick had its first owner planning an escape route that probably led straight into the river. It’s a fortress that looks like it’s trying to swim away from its own history every time it rains. If anyone asks, Tom sent you.

Explorer Tom Desmonds Castle in Adare was built on a bargain that probably involved a sheep and a lot of hand-wringing. It’s now heavily overgrown, looking like the garden ate the fortress whole. Walk past slowly like you're in a film about lost love.

Explorer Tom The Franciscan Abbey is just a fancy backdrop for seagulls who think they own the roof tiles. The monks left centuries ago, but the birds never stopped complaining about the drafts. Pop by and tell it it's looking well.

Explorer Tom Fanningstown Castle holds the world record for the most confusing conversion from ruin to luxury B&B. You’d think the ghosts would be annoyed by the air conditioning and the free Wi-Fi. Bring a coin for luck and keep it in your pocket.