Castle Nalact

Explorer Tom Scartnamuck House has a doorcase so fancy it probably needs a doorman to stop people staring. Bring your own sense of wonder because this place thinks it’s the centre of the farming universe right now.

Explorer Tom Templemartin Creamery in Garranes is a 1928 corrugated-iron beast that used to be the village's social hub, now just an outbuilding. It’s got a glass lean-to and looks like it’s waiting for a milk truck that never came. Wave at it if you see it!

Explorer Tom St Martin's Church is having a serious staring contest with the big tree next to it, and honestly, neither of them is blinking first. It’s got a plaque from 1718, which makes it feel ancient, but the tree is definitely winning the argument about who has better roots in this area.

Explorer Tom Castlenalact Hall in Castlenalact used to be a school, now it’s a hall. Built 1864, it’s got sandstone walls and a slate roof. It’s been teaching the community for generations. Wave to the old classrooms!

Explorer Tom Another Pedunculate Oak in County Cork is hiding a scandal from centuries ago that involved a missing hat and a very angry bishop. No proof, just vibes. Perfect place to be dramatically windswept and ignore the wind.

Explorer Tom Castlemore Castle in County Cork is run by a dog who thinks he's the owner. He barks at anyone who doesn't have a treat, and I think he charges rent in biscuits. It’s a very strict regime, but the castle looks well-kept because of it. Hang around long enough and you'll hear a story from a local.

Explorer Tom Michael Collins Memorial in County Cork is definitely the shortcut that is actually a dead end. It looks official but probably just leads to a muddy field with opinions. Wave at the cows, they are the real locals.

Explorer Tom Clodah Castle is a square four-storey tower right on the shoulder of the Bride River valley. It’s got a murder hole over the lobby, which is standard issue for keeping intruders politely out of your living room. Very practical architecture.

Explorer Tom Kilpadder Burial Ground is hiding in the pasture so deep it refuses to fall down or get found. The overgrowth is basically doing a great job of keeping secrets. Bring a jacket, it's never as warm as I promise.

Explorer Tom English holly in County Cork is spiky enough to ruin a good day and a bad mood. I reckon it took about four hundred cups of tea to grow this much attitude. Tell it a joke, it hasn't laughed since 1994.

Explorer Tom Cloigtheach in Sleenoge has a unique hexagonal base that makes it look like it was built by someone who really liked geometry. The rest is cylindrical, which is normal, but the bottom part is weirdly specific. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place, because honestly, who else does?

Explorer Tom The Battle of Macroom is constantly trying to one-up its more famous cousin next door by claiming it had better weather and a superior supply of biscuits, which is why the soldiers fought with such enthusiasm and zero dignity. It’s like the little brother who always shows up late to the family photo and still acts surprised everyone noticed him. If it’s closed, admire it from the road like a polym