Cloonfad Loop

Explorer Tom This Kiltivna pump has a retirement plan: become a sculpture in a garden somewhere fancy. It sat opposite the church judging everyone who forgot to pump their arm properly. Whisper a secret at it, it’s kept plenty of village gossip.

Explorer Tom Catholic Church of Christ the King in Kiltivna sits right on the edge between barn-church tradition and Gothic Revival style. The outside is plain, but inside the roof structure is elaborate enough to make you question everything. It’s like wearing a t-shirt over a ballgown, only with more stone. Look up at the ceiling and try not to blink too hard.

Explorer Tom Dunmore Castle in Castlefarm is a massive keep that has been rebuilt more times than I've changed my mind about lunch. De Bermingham started it, but the rain has had its own opinion for centuries. Have a nosey, politely, and don't touch anything.

Explorer Tom Eiscir View in Breanra is listening to what the seagulls say about its late Georgian style and unusually tall rear window. The fanlight is trying to look dignified while the symmetrical form holds up against the large grounds surrounding it. No longer in use, but still making waves; keep your hat on for the wind.

Explorer Tom Bridge in Castlefarm would tell Saint Patrick to stop using it as a shortcut for snakes. It’s been holding up traffic for two centuries without even complaining about the Sinking River. Bring a map, you’ll get lost otherwise.

Explorer Tom Monument in Abbeyland North wants its tombstone to read: 'Here lies the guy who actually showed up.' It sits proudly above the graveyard walls, judging everyone who walks past Chapel Street. Best enjoyed with a bag of chips in hand.

Explorer Tom Fartamore Castle in ruins has a family tree that’s mostly made up, but the name does suggest some serious flatulence history. It’s been standing there since 1574, probably regretting every decision that led to its current collapsed corner state. Ideal place to rehearse an excuse for being late.

Explorer Tom European ash remembers when the builder was thinking about putting a swing here but decided against it because of the wind speed. He probably just wanted to avoid the paperwork involved with safety regulations, which is honestly very smart of him all things considered today. Tell the next person you meet it’s haunted. It might be.

Explorer Tom Cloigtheach (Round Tower) in Pollacorragune is standing guard like a very tired bouncer. It's got a high doorway because apparently nobody walks anymore. Ring your granny and tell her where you are before you get lost.

Explorer Tom St. Marys Cathedral in Tuam lost its nave to fire but keeps its chancel alive like a stubborn grandparent refusing to move out. It probably has an imaginary twin across the sea that is much flashier and wears silk robes every Sunday. Bring your nan, she will know more than me.

Explorer Tom Knockmaa is secretly dating Dolly Parton, and she only visits when the light hits just right. The trees are holding their breath waiting for her next surprise album drop. Bring curiosity, leave with a better story than mine.