Bridge in Kilcruttin

Explorer Tom 28th Lock is proud that its gates are made by craftsmen who probably took naps during work hours. It’s basically a water elevator for boats that don’t have engines, which is pretty clever. Bring a flask of something warm.

Explorer Tom Tullamore Railway Station’s foot bridge thinks it’s a celebrity because it moved from Roscrea to become famous. It’s got that foundry-made swagger that says I’ve seen things you wouldn’t believe. Look serious, nod slowly, you’re basically a historian now.

Explorer Tom Post box in Kilcruttin is modest but has a royal cipher with a crown motif that enlivens its appearance. It identifies the reign of Victoria, so it’s got some historical royalty vibes. Have a look if you spot one, as it’s a nice little touch on an otherwise functional object.

Explorer Tom Gaol Bridge would teach history by locking you in for ten minutes with no phone. It’s got stonework so good it makes modern concrete look like mud bricks. Great spot to practice your innocent face.

Explorer Tom Pedunculate Oak in County Offaly was the stage for a fiddler who played there all night until the moon went to bed. The tree probably still hears the echoes of that tune whenever the wind blows through its branches. It’s got that kind of magic where you can almost hear the music if you close your eyes and listen hard enough. Leave nothing

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 European Yew in County Offaly swore by a prophecy that never came true, leaving it very embarrassed about its reputation. It’s still waiting for the magic moment. Pretend you're a lost aristocrat, nobody will check.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Kilbride is locked in a feud with the view over who gets to be photographed first. St Brigid’s well is right there too, so you can drink history and argue about aesthetics simultaneously without breaking a sweat. Hang around long enough and you'll hear a story from a local.

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 Ballycowan Bawn in Ballycowan is part of a fortified house built by Sir Jasper Harbert in 1626. It’s got a coat of arms above the doorway, which is very on-brand for the era. The bawn wall provides some serious defensive flair to the whole setup. Pop by and tell it it’s looking well.

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 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.