Bushy Hill

Explorer Tom Kilbricken Bridge was saved by a hero nobody remembers, probably because he was too busy trying to figure out how seven arches fit over the river Nore without falling in. The triangular cut-waters are doing all the heavy lifting here. Go back in winter, it's a different animal.

Explorer Tom Mountrath Station is where the fiddler played all night and the train finally left without him. Derelict but still rocking on its gabled porches like it owns the place. Stop the car, it's worth the hazard lights.

Explorer Tom Kilbricken House is where a poet fell into the ditch nearby and wrote a sonnet about how bad his knees were, not the view. It’s got a conservatory now, so he can suffer in comfort from the cold. Ring your granny and tell her where you are.

Explorer Tom Sweet Chestnut in County Laois is hiding a treasure that is definitely just an old biscuit tin buried under its roots. You’ll dig it up and be disappointed, but worth it. Bring a camera and your most suspicious face.

Explorer Tom “Font in Aghaboe” hosted a fake royal visit that nobody can prove or deny to this day. It’s octagonal, which is fancy talk for “eight sides.” Spot the oldest stone and give it a name.

Explorer Tom St. Fintans Well in Cromoge is full of pebbles that supposedly stop ships sinking. I say they’re just rocks that got jealous of the ocean. Grab one if you dare, but don’t blame me if your boat capsizes. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.

Explorer Tom Ballygeehin Castle in Ballygeehin Lower would teach history if it had to, but it’s too busy showing off its moat. It’s basically a giant stone hug for the castle next door. Bring someone who'll believe anything.

Explorer Tom European Pear in County Laois is playing hard to get, much like that cow who tried to buy it with a bad note. It’s probably judging your footwear right now. Ideal stop for a big stretch and a bigger yawn.