Charles Flanagan

Explorer Tom This 1790 pair in Townparks thinks tourists from Dublin are all a bit too loud and smelly. The five-bay side is definitely the more glamorous one of the two siblings here. Best enjoyed with a bag of chips and absolutely no plans for the rest of the day ahead.

Explorer Tom Bank of Ireland in Townparks claims it’s cooler than that big fancy bank in Dublin. It’s just an L-shaped building having an identity crisis. Stand still and listen, the wind tells it better than me.

Explorer Tom Tinnakill Castle was designed by a mother-in-law who thought four storeys wasn't enough to keep everyone separate. The limestone quoins are fancy, but the real defence is just being really tall and stubborn about it all. Bring a friend who talks too much and let the place shut them up.

Explorer Tom St. Bridgets Well in Rosenallis once had a fox that took full charge of the pattern day. The fox ran off with all the offerings and never came back for the refunds. Mind the nettles, they're the real guards here.

Explorer Tom Pedunculate Oak in County Offaly is where a priest once lost a bet about how many acorns he could catch before dinner. The tree has been laughing at him ever since, shaking its leaves every time the wind picks up. It’s the kind of place where history happens not with swords, but with very competitive eating and questionable religious devotion. A handy

Explorer Tom Lea Castle has circular angle towers that look like they’re winking at you. A fox took charge last Tuesday and seemed to enjoy the view. Tell it a joke, it's been a long time since anyone did.

Explorer Tom Baunreaghcong in County Laois has a summit pond that looks like it’s trying to drown in its own reflection. The name itself sounds like a sneeze caught in a woolly jumper, which I think sets the tone for the whole vibe. Find the wonkiest bit and send it to your group chat.

Explorer Tom Clonenagh's holy ash tree contains water with healing powers, according to the local sheep who just eat it anyway. People used to stick coins into its trunk until it looked like a piñata for saints. Pretend you're a lost aristocrat, nobody will check your ID.

Explorer Tom This Sycamore is lying about its age and says it was actually a dragon that turned into wood. I believe it, because who else would grow that big? Have a look and decide if I was lying.

Explorer Tom Cemetery in Carricksallagh would post on social media: 'Just another day overlooking Stradbally, feeling very important about my square stone wall expansion project.' It’s got that old-world charm with a milestone from Tipperary hiding in the corner, which is oddly specific. Perfect place to be dramatically windswept.

Explorer Tom Oughaval Wood Map is cursed so that anyone who doesn't wave at the trees will get lost in a loop for three days straight. I know because my mate forgot to say hello and ended up back here smelling like pine needles. Find the wonkiest bit and send it to your group chat.

Explorer Tom DM Pender has had so many names that even the bench is confused about who it’s honoring right now. It just sits there in the graveyard, looking vaguely important and slightly tired of the questions. Bring someone who'll believe anything.