Deer Spotting

Explorer Tom Garda station or constabulary barracks in Chapelizod used to scare the locals with its robust limestone entrance. Now it’s a care home, so the only thing left to fear is the paperwork and the Arts and Crafts tiles.

Explorer Tom School in Chapelizod looks like it might be a school or just an industrial shed that got confused. It’s right by the marketplace, looking vaguely official. Peek through the windows to see if any ghosts are still learning!

Explorer Tom Church or chapel in New Row is all round-headed windows and Presbyterian secrets from the mill workers' days. It would post about its new lease on life, but with a lot more judgment. Go n: whisper 'amen' just to see if it flinches!

Explorer Tom Bridge in Chapelizod is old enough to remember when the postman was actually feared. It’s got concrete on one side like it forgot which century it’s in. Bring your sense of history and leave your doubt at home.

Explorer Tom Knockmaree Dolmen in County Dublin is having a nap under its giant stone blanket. It’s been snoozing for ages, dreaming about ancient farmers. Wake it up gently if you dare!

Explorer Tom Oldtown Wood in County Dublin gives a glimpse of the 'Fifteen Acres' and mountains. Sounds like a real estate listing. Probably beautiful though. Take a picture of the gap, not just the trees.

Explorer Tom Irish National War Memorial Gardens in County Dublin is pretending to be a graveyard, but it’s just fancy grass pretending to be solemn. I bet the flags are laughing at us for taking it so seriously.

Explorer Tom Dome-Shaped Temple in County Dublin is quoting Rupert Brooke about safety while looking suspiciously round. Don't trust it; domes are always up to something sneaky.

Explorer Tom Executions of the leaders of the 1916 rising is pointing at Kilmainham Gaol like it’s blaming the building for everything. Fourteen guys got the axe, but this spot just wants you to feel dramatic about the whole bloody affair.

Explorer Tom Proclamation Sculpture in County Dublin is shouting its message from long ago, hoping someone finally listens. Tell me if you understood a word, or just nodded politely!

Explorer Tom Horse-chestnut in County Dublin is waiting for a cow that tried to buy it with a milk ticket last Tuesday. The cow left without paying and the tree is still fuming about the audacity of the whole situation. It's the kind of place that makes a dull Tuesday interesting, trust me.

Explorer Tom Castleknock Castle in County Dublin is perched right on top of a big old mound, just showing off. It's next to a college, so maybe the students are living in ghost stories now?