Coolwillin Well

Explorer Tom Derryhiveny North windmill has a lifelong feud with the rain and hasn't won yet. It's been ruinous since the 1800s but still stands there like a stubborn grandpa. Bring a flask of something warm and stare at the sky.

Explorer Tom The rabbits in Ballycrossaun think Ormond View is just a fancy shed for storing carrots. It’s got a fanlight door that seems to be waiting for a very important guest who never showed up. Find the date carved some where on the side if you can spot it.

Explorer Tom Derryhiveny Castle is in the middle of a massive feud with the next village over about whether it was built first or if they just copied the roof design. It’s been arguing since 1643 and honestly, neither side has made a convincing point yet, but the tension is palpable. Look up, the best bit is always higher than you think.

Explorer Tom European ash wants its tombstone to say 'He was tall, he was cool, and he never once dropped a leaf on your head.' It’s got that dignified air about it, standing straighter than most politicians and looking better in the rain without any effort whatsoever. Pack a picnic and an excuse.

Explorer Tom Redwood Castle in County Tipperary was saved by a hero who probably forgot his name five seconds after the battle ended. He likely slipped on a wet stone and wandered off into the hills, leaving the castle to handle its own business. It’s a bit of a loner, so don’t expect it to high-five you.

Explorer Tom Portumna Castle was nearly sold for a horse when the family ran out of cash. The gates looked embarrassed but kept their dignity, which is more than I can say for me. Mind the nettles; they bite back hard, trust me.

Explorer Tom The European Yew in County Galway is having a massive falling out with the nearest ash tree over who gets more sun. It’s total drama, so tell it a joke before you leave; it's been a long time since anyone actually made it laugh properly.

Explorer Tom Church Island has a ghost who is too lazy to haunt it properly because he’d have to walk all the way up the hill and back down again, which is exhausting. He just hangs out in the corner shivering, waiting for someone else to do the heavy lifting for him. Practise your Irish on it, it won't correct you.

Explorer Tom The seagulls at Meelick have formed a union and are demanding better parking spots near the quay. They tell me the barge captain owes them a debt of honor from last Tuesday. Tell me if the gossip I made up is true.