Carmel Snow

Explorer Tom Killiney Hill gives you a view of Dublin Bay from about 153 metres up, though the hill used to have a bit more head on it. Stone cut from the summit helped build the pier at Dún Laoghaire. I might complain that somebody borrowed the top, but the harbour got a useful bargain. An obelisk completed in 1742 remembers people who suffered in the famine of 1740-41; let that fact sit alongside the fine view. In clear weather you can see across the Irish Sea toward Wales, while nearer paths run through Killiney Hill Park and Dalkey Hill beside it. I would promise to identify every headland, then point to the wrong one with confidence. The park is public walking ground, with slopes and steps that deserve sensible shoes. Go for the view, pause at the obelisk, and give the missing summit a thought on the way down.

Explorer Tom Mapas Monument in County Dublin was built back in 1742 because the walks were too hard. John Mapas did it, so we owe him one. Stand next to it and look like you know the history!

Explorer Tom Ayesha Castle in County Dublin has a deep suspicion of the postman and his noisy van. The name suggests royalty, but the reality is just a map point with attitude. It’s probably judging your driving from its hidden perch in the green fields. It's free, it's odd, what more do you want?

Explorer Tom White Rock, Killiney Beach in County Dublin is accessed by 100 steps, which is basically a cardio workout disguised as a beach trip. The nudists are on the left, so just keep your eyes forward and try not to make eye contact unless you're ready.

Explorer Tom Dalkey Hill inspired someone to write a poem about it that rhymed 'hill' with 'will' and nothing else, which is why it’s still trying to recover its dignity. It stands there in the city, pretending it doesn't know it's famous mostly because of bad verse and good views. Go now, before it gets famous.

Explorer Tom Corrig More in Kilbogget is a two-storey house that’s been disused since 1911. It has polygonal bay windows that look like they’re trying to see everything. The tiered visual effect is very subtle if you squint hard enough.

Explorer Tom Martello Tower in Killiney. Located just under a quarter of a mile inland, this tower is nestled in an urbanized area of housing. It has been fully restored, so it looks less like a relic and more like a very serious garden ornament.

Explorer Tom Tudor Lodge in Kilbogget is a villa-like house built for Jaffray Barcroft around 1862. It has a T-shaped plan and tripartite glazing, so if you see the doorcase, pretend you’re checking out the latest Victorian fashion trend.

Explorer Tom Hawk Cliff in County Dublin is a cliff where you can find a hidden swimming spot at the bottom. The path meanders through bushes and railway lines before dropping steeply to the sea. Watch your step, or don’t!

Explorer Tom Archbold's Castle in County Dublin has the local sheep giving it strong opinions on its architectural choices. They probably think the moat is just a big puddle for summer. It’s a castle that exists mostly in maps and local legend, which keeps it mysterious. Take a mate and argue about what it was for.