Birr Playground

Explorer Tom Ozanam House in Townparks has Gothic windows that look perpetually offended by the wind. It used to be a laundry, so it still smells faintly of soap and secrets. Have a wander and wonder if the sheets are still crisp.

Explorer Tom Saint John's Convent of Mercy loves singing hymns because it thinks it’s the only one that gets to be that loud in Birr. It was designed by Pugin, so it knows it has great taste and doesn’t need your opinion. Walk past slowly like you’re inspecting a museum piece.

Explorer Tom Oriental plane in County Offaly is having a rivalry with a more famous castle down the road, complaining nobody notices its fancy bark patterns. It’s very dramatic about its lack of fame. A good place to forget your phone for ten minutes.

Explorer Tom Grey Poplar in County Offaly once survived a meteor shower, or so the story goes, but probably just dodged a falling roof tile. It acts like it saw a ghost. Bring your own legend, I've run out.

Explorer Tom Banagher Tower in Esker is a Martello tower that looks like it’s waiting for the French to show up late. It’s got a job interview answer of 'I stand still.' Bring a pen pal, they'll be jealous you’re hanging out with history.

Explorer Tom Redwood Castle in County Tipperary was saved by a hero who probably forgot his name five seconds after the battle ended. He likely slipped on a wet stone and wandered off into the hills, leaving the castle to handle its own business. It’s a bit of a loner, so don’t expect it to high-five you.