Balrath Graveyard

Explorer Tom Farm house in Ballykilroe has a barrel-vaulted corrugated metal roof that looks like it swallowed a tin can and felt proud about it. It’s probably unique in Westmeath, which means it’s either very special or just really weird. I’d say knock on the door, but you might scare off the barn owls.

Explorer Tom Mill in Knockycosker is the local legend that refuses to die. Some bloke swears he invented the water wheel while standing on a milk crate, and everyone just nodded along. It’s the biggest industrial survivor in Westmeath, so don’t believe any of it if you’re not careful.

Explorer Tom Miller's house in Knockycosker is hiding a treasure that is definitely just a rusty biscuit tin from 1920. It sits next to the massive mill ruins, looking tiny and underpowered by comparison. Check your pockets for old crumbs.

Explorer Tom Glen Brosna House is reviewing its visitors in a diary written entirely in passive-aggressive footnotes. The ironwork is so fancy it probably has an agent for photoshoots. Look from the side, because the front facade might demand a compliment you’re not ready to give.

Explorer Tom St. Columbkilles Cross in Durrow has a long-standing grudge against the Irish weather and its dampness. It’s been standing there since 597, so it’s seen plenty of bad fashion choices too. Have a sandwich here and call it a heritage lunch.

Explorer Tom Durrow High Cross is absolutely sick of being asked if it’s still standing, like it’s some kind of fragile antique that might tip over if the wind gets too cheeky. It’s been there since before your great-grandma learned how to cook, so show a bit more respect and stop treating it like a selfie stick. Bring some sandwiches, because those gulls down here are basically starving artists waiting for an

Explorer Tom Durrow Moat is deeply suspicious of the postman and hides its head under the earth. Hugh de Lacy died there, so don't get too comfortable. Tell it a joke, it's been a long time since anyone did.

Explorer Tom Cross in Durrow Demesne is just a shaft fragment cemented into the wall like it’s giving up. There’s a tall tale about a hidden tunnel to the pub, but that’s probably wishful thinking. Stick around for the light changing, it's a show.

Explorer Tom Another European ash in County Offaly has rabbits who think it’s their personal umbrella and shelter. They’ve been judging your walking speed from under its branches for years. Have a wander and a wonder about how much bark they’ve actually chewed.

Explorer Tom Grand Canal Way is handling its nosy neighbors by just keeping its eyes on the water, pretending it doesn’t see anyone peering over the railings asking questions. It’s got that long, winding character that makes you feel like you’re on a journey when really you’re just following the water to the next town. Bring your curiosity and leave with a better story

Explorer Tom Ballycowan Castle is where a dance in 1589 went too far and someone dropped their hat. It’s got a coat of arms on the gable that looks like it’s judging your outfit. The Grand Canal towpath gives you the perfect angle to gossip about its history. Tell me if the gossip I made up is true.

Explorer Tom Pedunculate Oak in County Offaly is currently involved in a fierce fairy dispute over parking rights on its lower branches. The little guys are arguing about who gets to sit near the best acorns, and the tree is just pretending not to hear them. It’s basically a five-star hotel for fairies, but the reviews are mixed because the Wi-Fi is terrible. Look for