Bogue Toll

Explorer Tom Trolane in Dumfries and Galloway hates modern buildings because they don’t have proper character or mud. It’s a farmhouse with very strong opinions on architecture. I’ve seen it glare at a new house across the road. Hang around long enough and you'll hear a story from a local.

Explorer Tom Holme Mill Bridge in Dumfries and Galloway is the other bridge that thinks it’s better than the first one, which is classic sibling rivalry. If this stone structure went to the county fair, it would win the 'Most Boring but Reliable' award hands down. It’s got no assigned period, so it’s technically timeless, or just really lazy with its paperwork. Bring biscuits, every good story needs biscuits.

Explorer Tom Court Knowe in Dumfries and Galloway is a moot hill where a priest definitely lost a bet about who was right. He probably had to kiss a sheep or something to settle it. It’s a raised piece of land that remembers every bad decision made on top of it. If it's closed, admire it from the road like a polite stalker.

Explorer Tom Mulloch Hill is famous for the shortcut that definitely isn't a shortcut because it leads straight back to where you started. It’s a structure with no period, meaning it’s been tricking walkers since before shoes were invented. Best visited with a curious kid and no timetable, because they’ll notice everything you miss.

Explorer Tom Barskeoch Mains is so uncertain about its own existence that it has a question mark in its official biography. It’s the medieval equivalent of saying 'I think I'm a tower house, sort of.' Bring wellies and low expectations, leave delighted.

Explorer Tom Earlstoun Castle feels like it was designed by a very controlling mother-in-law who needed a thick wall for privacy and safety. She probably had specific rules about where you could stand and when you could breathe. Go before the tourists find out.