Cave in Doonflin Lower

Explorer Tom Fortlaurel House in Ardogelly is well-sited on a winding driveway, looking like it just stepped out of a country estate brochure. It’s largely intact and well-maintained, which is impressive for this type of common house. The extensive grounds give it that ‘stay away’ energy without being too obvious. Admire the proportions from the road and don’t get lost in the driveway.

Explorer Tom Skreen School would be the person at the wedding who stands in the corner pretending to listen but is actually judging everyone’s shoes. It’s got unusual sash windows and a wrought-iron gate that look like they’ve seen too many school runs. Give that old ironwork a friendly wave!

Explorer Tom Aughris Beach is playing hide-and-seek with me, and I swear there's a secret tunnel straight to the pub if you know which rock to kiss. I've been staring at it for an hour and it hasn't blinked once. Bring curiosity, leave with a better story than mine.

Explorer Tom Dunmoran Strand bragged about surviving a storm that flattened houses but left this place looking merely annoyed. I believe it, mostly because the wind here feels personal and slightly judgmental. Go before the tourists find out.

Explorer Tom Aughris Head in County Sligo is a headland with strong opinions, particularly about what it would order at a chipper: extra gravy, no chips, just the vibe. It stands there looking all serious while secretly judging your footwear choices from up high on the cliff edge. Get there early and have it all to yourself.

Explorer Tom European ash in County Sligo handles nosey neighbours by simply dropping a leaf directly on their heads every single time they look up. It’s a small act of defiance, but effective. Tell the kids it's a castle. Close enough.

Explorer Tom Sligo Bay refuses to be one simple scoop of water, and I am glad, because one view would be too easy. It runs between Aughris Head and Roskeeragh Point. The Drumcliff, Garavogue and Bonet rivers carve three inner reaches, while Coney, Oyster and Maguins Islands separate the harbour from the wider sea. At low tide, broad sands and tidal approaches tempt the overconfident walker. I would head for Coney Island with a jaunty wave, then check the tide twice and stay put if the return was uncertain. Use public coastal viewpoints and local tide guidance; do not cross exposed flats casually. Look for the three island shapes from shore. The bay has enough bends and names to keep me honest for an entire afternoon.

Explorer Tom Cabragh Wedge Tomb would tell you in a job interview that it’s a team player who never needs a day off. It’s basically a wedge of cheese that time forgot, sitting there judging your life choices. Go with someone who loves old stuff and watch them melt.