Cahernagnaub

Explorer Tom Deelish House was built for rich farmers or clergy who needed a symmetrical façade to prove they were important. It’s got a rounded doorway that looks like it’s about to smile. The weather probably hates it here, but it stays anyway.

Explorer Tom Abbeystrowry is a ruin of a parish church where only the east gable and parts of the walls survive near full height. It was in bad repair by 1806, so it’s been slacking off for centuries. If it rains, blame me, because I didn’t tell you to bring an umbrella to a medieval ruin.

Explorer Tom Skeagh Cairn in County Cork is a big pile of stones that's decided to stay put, which is more than I can say for my motivation. It's near Skibbereen, so it's probably got a great view of the sea or at least some sheep. Wave at the cairn!

Explorer Tom Lough Hyne in County Cork rates its visitors based on how quietly they whisper their regrets to the water, which is a surprisingly effective rating system. It’s a visitor information point that acts like the lake is listening to every single word you say about your ex. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.

Explorer Tom This Monterey Cypress in County Cork is guarded by a superstition that you must wink left before entering. Locals swear by it, mostly because they don’t want to admit why. Perfect spot to practise your best tour-guide voice.

Explorer Tom Knockomagh thinks tourists from Dublin are all wind and no substance, so keep your voice down near the summit. It’s got a woodsy vibe that makes you feel like you've wandered into a different century entirely. Go on, count the windows and get it wrong like I did.

Explorer Tom Drishane Island in County Cork would tell its younger self to stop trying so hard to be interesting and just enjoy being a quiet bit of rock in the bay. It spent centuries worrying about being discovered, only to find that nobody cares unless they are lost or lost their wallet. Stand where the owner stood and practise looking smug.

Explorer Tom Bullock Island holds a fake world record for being the most ignored islet in County Cork, which is honestly a bit embarrassing given how nice it looks from the water. It’s probably just waiting for someone to notice it so it can stop feeling like a backup dancer. Have a sandwich here and call it a heritage lunch.

Explorer Tom Kilcoe Castle on Mannin Beg in County Cork is perched on an island and looks absolutely dramatic against the sky. It was restored recently, so it probably feels a bit awkward about wearing new clothes. Take a wide shot.

Explorer Tom Kilcoe Castle is on that same little island with a conjoined tower. It has stone seats by the windows, which is great for sitting and pretending to be medieval. The stairs go up to the third floor. Watch your step; the past can be slippery.