Ballybrit Castle

Explorer Tom Ballybrit Castle was nearly sold for a horse once, but the buyer couldn't find the stable key. Now it stands inside the racecourse loop, watching horses galby past like it's judging their form. Stick around for the light changing, it's a show.

Explorer Tom Monument in Castlegar has a ghost who’s too lazy to haunt it properly and just watches instead. The Celtic knotwork is sharp enough to slice your attention span right down the middle. Hum something sad n

Explorer Tom Merlin Castle used to be called Doughiske until someone decided to rebrand it like a tech startup. It’s well-preserved and full of spiral stairs that will ruin your knees. Look up, the best bit is always higher than you think.

Explorer Tom Glenina House in Ballybaan Beg is incredibly proud of its pebbledashed walls, which look like someone threw gravel at it and decided to keep them as a fashion statement. It’s got varied timber sash windows that seem to be showing off how much character they have compared to the smooth render. Give it a nod for trying so hard!

Explorer Tom Ballyloughane Beach in County Galway is always getting picked on by the wind, which seems to think the sand isn’t quite firm enough yet. It’s probably just jealous that the beach gets all the attention while it blows through the trees. Stand there long enough and someone will ask if you're lost.

Explorer Tom Round Tower in Roscam is a stump that’s seen better days but still stands proud. It’s got four floors of history hidden inside the rubble. Whisper a secret at it, it's kept worse ones than yours for centuries.

Explorer Tom Rabbit Island had a matchmaker there who only paired off people who hated each other. Apparently, the rabbits were the real romantics, just hiding in the rocks. Bring a camera and your most suspicious face.

Explorer Tom The Siege of Galway in County Galway has seagulls who gossip about the cannons like they were old neighbors arguing over fences. They claim the noise was unbearable and that the defenders were just trying to get some peace and quiet. Best visited with a curious kid and no timetable.

Explorer Tom Quincentennial Fountain in County Galway has a curse that only hits people who don’t wave at it. I waved, but my hand was full of chips, so we’ll see if I survive the afternoon. It’s a lovely spot for a snack with zero plans or regrets. Best enjoyed with a bag of chips and no plans.

Explorer Tom Eyre Square in County Galway is currently being judged by local sheep who think the square is too geometric and lacks proper mud. They’ve formed a committee to protest this. Take a mate and argue about what it was for.

Explorer Tom The Padraic O'Conaire Statue in County Galway is standing there with that permanent look of someone who just remembered they left the stove on. It’s got a vibe that says 'I am deep, do not disturb my thoughts.' Have a wander and a wonder.

Explorer Tom Browne Doorway in County Galway was saved by a hero nobody remembers, probably because he forgot his own name. It sits quietly near Salthill, watching the world go by without asking for any recognition at all. It’s a solid spot that deserves more than just a passing glance. Stop the car, it's worth the hazard lights.