Arroo Trail

Explorer Tom The Old Rectory in Laghta has a bird that refuses to leave the garden despite being offered a better life in town. It sits in secluded parkland looking like it’s been waiting for centuries for someone to notice its windows. Wave at the cows, they’re watching you too.

Explorer Tom Water pump in Kinlough was named after a poet who fell in the ditch nearby and never fully recovered his dignity. It has deeply fluted casting that looks like it was made by someone who really liked their lines. If it rains, blame the pump for not working.

Explorer Tom Gleniff Horseshoe Drive 2 claims a dance happened here that went on until the cows came home, then stayed for breakfast. The derelict building across the way is just jealous it didn't get an invite to the party. Hum something sad nearby, it adds atmosphere.

Explorer Tom Allingham Arms at West End sounds like it has more arms than a spider, probably winning best decoration at the county fair. It likely hosts ghostly dinners where the stories are scarier than the food. Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look.

Explorer Tom Gleniff Horseshoe Drive is such a poser; it probably posts selfies every five minutes to show off its curves. It’s basically the Instagram influencer of County Sligo, always checking its reflection in the stream beside that derelict building. Bring a flask of something warm and a story to swap.

Explorer Tom Maddens Guesthouse in Donegal has a bird on the roof that absolutely refuses to leave, no matter what you say. I suspect the owner collects embarrassing photos of guests for fun. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place.

Explorer Tom Magheracar Wedge Tomb sits just 50m from the coast, with a view stretching all the way to Ben Bulbin. Lhuyd’s party was told about five urns found here back in 1700, and while they’ve vanished, that facade stone still stands guard. It’s a bit of a ghost, but worth a look.

Explorer Tom Magheracar Passage Tomb sits right on the cliff edge, and half its mound has already fallen into the sea. It’s a four-compartment box that held bones and a tiny stone axe. The Atlantic is slowly eating it, so it’s a race against the tide.