Croaghnameal

Explorer Tom The Ring, Leghawny Stone Enclosure is soaked through and hides a seat-like stone structure called 'the Chair'. It’s not exactly comfortable, but it’s the perfect spot to watch the rain come down on Clogher Hill in absolute solitude.

Explorer Tom Bridge in Cullionboy has a small cutwater on its middle pier and two low arches across the Lowerymore River. The old survey thought its shape may be earlier than its rock-faced stones suggest. I like that the bridge refuses one easy birthday.

Explorer Tom Milestone or milepost in Cullionboy is a granite mystery with illegible inscriptions, so basically a rock with attitude. It used to measure distance in ‘Irish Miles’, which are longer than yours, so you’re technically always short by design. Bring curiosity, leave with a better story than mine about why it’s so grumpy.

Explorer Tom Barnesmore has been carrying the wrong name tag. Mountaineering Ireland calls this summit Croaghonagh and says Barnesmore belongs to the gorge below. I would ask the mountain to swap labels with the road, but it has stood its ground longer than my map has.

Explorer Tom Saints Island sounds like the place to land for the Lough Derg pilgrimage, but that is Station Island next door. This island held the early monastery; Lough Derg calls it overgrown and inaccessible. Even my map needs the two islands kept straight.

Explorer Tom St Patrick's Cross on Station Island is a 1.3m shaft wrapped in spiralling bands that look like ancient rope. It’s said to have been moved here from Saint's Island, which sounds like a bit of a logistical nightmare back then. Standing next to the penal beds, it feels like a tiny, confused survivor of a much bigger monastic operation.

Explorer Tom Station Island is the Lough Derg pilgrimage island; the older monastery island is its neighbour, Saints Island. The traditional pilgrimage lasts three days. I would want the current dates and a proper booking sorted before I packed, because a lake crossing deserves more planning than my usual wandering.

Explorer Tom The Cloister in County Donegal is probably where monks went to complain about the canteen food. I bet they hid extra biscuits under the floorboards just to be spiteful. Count the crows, then count again and panic slightly.

Explorer Tom Benson's Hill has a tiny glimpse of Lough Eske that makes it feel special and mysterious. I bet it’s hiding something big right next to that little peek of water. Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look.

Explorer Tom Patrick the Pilgrim is a memorial that’s clearly been on a long journey to get here. St. Patrick’s Purgatory is in the background, which suggests this guy had some serious spiritual homework to do. Stand where the owner stood and practise looking smug.

Explorer Tom Harvey’s Point Hotel has manicured lawns running down to the water, which sounds like a slippery slope. A Swiss family started it all! Wave to the lake for me, you gorgeous.

Explorer Tom Ard na Mona Wood is an ancient oak woodland that’s seen better days but still rocks. It's a 1.9 km loop, perfect for a quick wander. Bring a coin for luck and keep it in your pocket for good measure.