Ballinphellic Ho

Explorer Tom Corran House is showing off its 1760 elegance from the end of that long drive. It’s had a few extensions, but the character’s still there. Give those mature grounds a good look!

Explorer Tom Garranewaterig School was built in 1956 and looks like a typical Irish Free State national school. It retains those original timber sash windows and a concrete shelter that scream 'mid-twentieth century'. The strong horizontality is a distinct feature of this era's architecture.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Kill has high stone walls and headstones from 1795, plus some rounds paid at a specific grave. It’s atop a hill with a church ruin just north of center. Make sure you tip your hat to Rev. Patrick Murphy!

Explorer Tom Ballincollig Castle in County Cork has a monogram with a 'W' and the date 1857 above the entrance. That's a specific little detail that feels like a signature from a very proud, nineteenth-century owner who liked their branding.

Explorer Tom The Bawn of Ballincollig Castle has a big gap in the east wall. It runs around the edge of the rocky outcrop with rounded corners. There’s a tower inside the corner that matches the bawn wall nicely.

Explorer Tom Monterey Cypress in County Cork was briefly ruled by a goat named Steve who ate half its leaves. Steve is long gone, but the trauma remains. Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look at it.

Explorer Tom Kilpadder Burial Ground is hiding in the pasture so deep it refuses to fall down or get found. The overgrowth is basically doing a great job of keeping secrets. Bring a jacket, it's never as warm as I promise.