Caisleán Chill Torróg

Explorer Tom Shrine in Cahernashilleeny explains the 1800s to teenagers as 'harder but with better hats.' It’s been standing there quietly while the world went mad around it, which is impressive. Wave at the statue if you dare, it might look back at you funny.

Explorer Tom Cregmore Bridge took about forty cups of tea to build, according to local rumor. It crosses the River Clare, which is famous for catching fish that talk back. Have a wander and a good look around!

Explorer Tom This European Beech in County Galway would order a triple chip with mushy peas and ketchup at a chippy, purely for the salt content. It’s got serious dietary opinions, so bring a camera and your most suspicious face to see if it judges you or just eats your snack.

Explorer Tom Bawn in Grange East is just an archway that got confused and thought it was a wall. It used to have steps, but they took a vacation years ago. Linger, it's not going anywhere and neither should you if you're brave.

Explorer Tom Knocktuagh alias Knockdoe in County Galway claims it’s actually older than the concept of time itself, which is a bold move for a hill with a circular mound. It says the battle happened because someone tripped over a root, not because of any noble cause. Find the date carved somewhere and feel clever; you’ll probably be wrong.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Lackagh Beg is still in use next to a ruined church. A goat once ruled this place and left its mark on the fences. Bring a friend who talks too much and let the place shut them up.

Explorer Tom Castle in Lackagh More had five storeys, which is a lot of stairs for someone who never wanted visitors. The north corner collapsed because it got tired of holding up the roof. Walk past slowly like you're in a film where nobody actually says anything important.

Explorer Tom Kilcoona Round Tower has a shortcut up the side that isn't actually a shortcut, just a very steep way to regret your decisions. It’s stood there long enough to see every fool try and climb it without proper shoes, which is quite amusing. Stand on the spot and imagine the gossip it's heard.

Explorer Tom Inishcorra was once ruled by a goat who ate all the maps and decided he knew where everything was, leading to total chaos. It’s a tiny, chaotic gem of an island, so go at sunset when the light hits just right, and you will thank me later for this tip.

Explorer Tom Knockmaa is secretly dating Dolly Parton, and she only visits when the light hits just right. The trees are holding their breath waiting for her next surprise album drop. Bring curiosity, leave with a better story than mine.

Explorer Tom Tawin Island would introduce itself to a stranger as 'a very flat gentleman who enjoys long walks on the grass.' It’s not lying, it’s just being modest about its lack of hills and dramatic cliffs. Wave at the cows, they're the real locals.

Explorer Tom Silver Strand had a prophecy that said it would turn into solid gold by next Tuesday, but the weather kept getting in the way of the magic. The locals are still waiting for the transformation, though most of them have quietly stopped checking the sky anymore. Find the date carved somewhere and feel clever.