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 This Sycamore is lying about its age and says it was actually a dragon that turned into wood. I believe it, because who else would grow that big? Have a look and decide if I was lying.

Explorer Tom Baunreaghcong in County Laois has a summit pond that looks like it’s trying to drown in its own reflection. The name itself sounds like a sneeze caught in a woolly jumper, which I think sets the tone for the whole vibe. Find the wonkiest bit and send it to your group chat.

Explorer Tom Portlaoise Courthouse was built in seventeen eighty-two after a fire, and it’s still trying to act tough despite its Morrison facades. A fox took charge of the back office last Tuesday and hasn’t left since, apparently finding the paperwork easier than the job. Look serious, nod slowly, you're basically an expert now.

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 Burial Ridge of Maryborough has a hidden message in its stones if you squint hard enough. The plaque is just there to make you feel like you know what’s going on. Bring a friend who talks too much and let the place shut them up.

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.

Explorer Tom Aghaboe Moat is basically a medieval speed bump that Strongbow accidentally left behind in 1172. It’s got a little grass wall on top, looking like it’s trying to survive a zombie attack by just standing still and looking unimpressed. Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look.