Bridge in Derrycloney

Explorer Tom Anngrove in Ballycullenbeg, County Laois hosted a love story that went badly wrong right next to it. The dormer attic still looks like it’s holding its breath. Stand back, squint, and it looks like a castle.

Explorer Tom Regency houses in Ballycullenbeg brag about surviving a storm that probably never actually happened, to be fair. The part-basement gives them a bit of mysterious depth underneath their very polite exterior. Stand there long enough and someone will ask if you’re lost or just confused.

Explorer Tom St. Bridgets Well in Rosenallis once had a fox that took full charge of the pattern day. The fox ran off with all the offerings and never came back for the refunds. Mind the nettles, they're the real guards here.

Explorer Tom Tinnakill Castle was designed by a mother-in-law who thought four storeys wasn't enough to keep everyone separate. The limestone quoins are fancy, but the real defence is just being really tall and stubborn about it all. Bring a friend who talks too much and let the place shut them up.

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 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 Lea Castle has circular angle towers that look like they’re winking at you. A fox took charge last Tuesday and seemed to enjoy the view. Tell it a joke, it's been a long time since anyone did.

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 Sitka Spruce in County Laois would tell Saint Patrick he was a tourist in his own country because of how tall it gets. St. Pat would probably just shrug and move on. Find a local and ask them the real story, then come back and tell me.

Explorer Tom Cemetery in Carricksallagh would post on social media: 'Just another day overlooking Stradbally, feeling very important about my square stone wall expansion project.' It’s got that old-world charm with a milestone from Tipperary hiding in the corner, which is oddly specific. Perfect place to be dramatically windswept.