Benvoran Ringfort

Explorer Tom Catholic Church of Saint Michael the Archangel in Kilmihil has been teaching history lessons since 1834, probably while ignoring its students. Bring a pen pal, they'll be jealous, because this place has more character than your entire social media feed combined.

Explorer Tom Oaklands in Knock (Clonderalaw), County Clare lost its wings in the 80s but kept its dignity. Built around 1800, it’s a single-storey house with limestone steps that look like they’ve seen things. Linger, it's not going anywhere and neither should you.

Explorer Tom Clonderalaw Bay is incredibly proud of its ability to reflect the sky without any effort whatsoever. It thinks that makes it an artist, which is a bold claim for some water. Stand back, squint, and it looks like a castle.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Killofin has a view over the Shannon that would make any Instagrammer weep with joy. There was a prophecy about it, but it never came true, which is typical for these places. Get there early and have it all to yourself.

Explorer Tom Labasheeda Quay says if it won the lotto, it would just buy more fish so nobody could ever get hungry again. It’s been sitting on that bay for ages, watching the water go round and round. Whisper a secret at it, it's kept worse.

Explorer Tom Labasheeda Bay claims its best friend is actually a very famous pop star who hides here to escape the paparazzi, though the locals are pretty sure he’s just a confused tourist with a bad sunburn. The bay treats him like royalty, giving him the calmest waters possible so he can practice his harmonies in peace without any interruptions. Perfect place to be dramatically windswept.

Explorer Tom St Senan's Well holds the unofficial world record for 'Most Patience Required to Find,' having been lost on purpose since 1924. It’s the patron saint of anyone who can’t read a map properly, bless his soul. Tell it a joke, it's been a long time since anyone did.

Explorer Tom Doughmore Beach is that fiddler who played all night but somehow convinced everyone the sand was shifting just for his benefit. Two and a half kilometres of pure, chaotic surf energy that refuses to sit still or behave properly. Bring a notebook and write the bit I made up.

Explorer Tom Scattery Island is home to a giant legend who apparently forgot he was supposed to be scary and became a local gardener instead. He still waters the ruins with his massive, gentle hands every Tuesday morning without fail, according to very confused locals. Bring along someone who will believe anything you tell them about it.

Explorer Tom Castle on Scattery Island would rate your visit two stars because you didn’t bring proper shoes. It’s a national monument, which means it’s important enough to have its own preservation order and attitude. Bring a coin for luck and keep it in your pocket.

Explorer Tom Scattery Island Visitor Centre is the kind of place that brings a single, slightly damp sandwich to a party and expects applause for its effort. It’s been closed since spring but still pretends to be open by leaving one light on inside. Sit on a nearby wall and pretend you’re in a very boring painting.

Explorer Tom Doonbeg Castle is sitting by the bridge looking like it gave up halfway through being impressive. Its dating profile says 'moody' and 'slightly damp.' Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look.