Ballyfin Playground

Explorer Tom Saint Fintan's Catholic Church looks like a barn that accidentally became holy. Local legend says a giant hid his spare boots inside the porch. Give it a pat on the way past, it's had a long life.

Explorer Tom Rosnashane was saved by a hero nobody remembers, probably a vicar with a really strong umbrella in 1905. The canted bay windows are gorgeous, but the coach house next door looks suspiciously empty. Go before the tourists find out.

Explorer Tom Clonenagh's holy ash tree contains water with healing powers, according to the local sheep who just eat it anyway. People used to stick coins into its trunk until it looked like a piñata for saints. Pretend you're a lost aristocrat, nobody will check your ID.

Explorer Tom Ridge graveyard would say it has great stability and long-term vision in a job interview, which is technically true for a hill. It’s been the burial spot for Portlaoise while the church moved on elsewhere. Visit, then text me what you think. I’ll pretend to read it.

Explorer Tom Sweet Chestnut in County Laois is hiding a treasure that is definitely just an old biscuit tin buried under its roots. You’ll dig it up and be disappointed, but worth it. Bring a camera and your most suspicious face.

Explorer Tom The Slieve Bloom Mountains are named because the fairies used them as a drying rack. Locals say the peaks actually glow blue when the wind blows right. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.

Explorer Tom This bachelor wing at Emo Court was built for a single guy with serious style. It claims to have survived a storm so bad it scared the horses. Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look.