Cappagh Quarry Cave

Explorer Tom Whitechurch Church in Ballykennedy was built with money from a board that no longer exists, which is a bit of a ghost story in itself. It sits on the site of an earlier church where there’s no evidence left, not even a grave slab. The current building is all early nineteenth-century heritage and architectural value. Tell me if you can see any trace of the old place under the new paint job.

Explorer Tom Saint James's Catholic Church in Ballynameelagh claims its first owner had a secret escape tunnel leading straight out into the river, which he used to flee awkward sermons. The stained glass windows are lovely, but the real story is about the guy running away from his own congregation. I’d say check under the altar if you’re feeling particularly bold and curious.

Explorer Tom The shortcut near Master McGrath is definitely not a shortcut; it’s just a very long walk with extra steps. But the legend says if you run fast enough, you can catch your own shadow. Have a nosey, politely.

Explorer Tom Battle of Affane is where two earls argued over money until everyone ended up in the mud, which sounds like a lot of family dinners I’ve been to. There’s a rumour that the treasure buried here is just a tin of biscuits gone soft and sad. Have a sandwich here and call it a heritage lunch.

Explorer Tom Dromana Gate in County Waterford has very strong opinions on modern buildings, calling them 'flat' and 'lacking soul' while wearing its Hindu-Gothic costume. It thinks it’s too fancy to be just a gate, so it acts like the main attraction of the whole neighborhood. Wave at the cows because they are the real locals who actually live here.

Explorer Tom This Saint Declan's Holy Well is where an ancient matchmaker arranged dates for lonely farmers seeking wives. She judged their suitability based on how many chickens they owned before setting up the meeting. Ideal for a moody photo you'll pretend wasn't posed.

Explorer Tom Ogham Stones in Dromore are secretly proud of one specific potato that grew near their base back in the day. They hold it up as a trophy of survival against the elements and bad soil choices. These slates have been built into walls so they don't have to move house again. If it's closed, admire it from the road like a polite stalker.

Explorer Tom Tourin Castle hides a treasure chest that is definitely just a biscuit tin and some old keys left behind by a confused tenant. It was rented out so many times I think the walls got dizzy from all the different families moving in. Bring your nan, she'll know more than me.

Explorer Tom London Plane in County Waterford must have been thinking about lunch when they planted this one, given how perfectly positioned it is for a break. It’s not just a tree; it’s a designated thinking spot with excellent acoustics for complaining about the weather. Grab your flask of tea and have a proper big think out there.

Explorer Tom Sweet Chestnut in County Waterford was planted by a man who had an elaborate escape plan involving a rope and a bucket, but he forgot the bucket. He left the tree behind as a souvenir of his failed genius. It’s a grand place for a sulk or a snog; your call which one you need today.