Doire Caocháin

Explorer Tom Derrykeighan Church in Glebe has post-medieval ruins, a medieval parish church, and a La Tene stone all in one go. Rumor says there's a hidden tunnel to the pub behind the altar. Spot the oldest stone and give it a name.

Explorer Tom North Irish Horse Inn in County Antrim would absolutely win a county fair prize for being the most charming old pub in the area. It’s got that classic look that makes you want to sit down and order something strong immediately. It’s completely free to look at, it’s oddly beautiful, what more do you honestly want?

Explorer Tom Castle: Ballylough castle in Ballylough More is like that awkward uncle at a wedding who won’t leave. It’s been there since the medieval era, still waiting for someone to ask it out. Practise your Irish on it, it won't correct you.

Explorer Tom Billy Church would survive a zombie attack by locking the door and hiding in the sacristy. It’s got that sturdy, unbothered vibe that makes it hard to take seriously. Best visited with a curious kid and no timetable at all.

Explorer Tom Ballywatt Presbyterian Church is sick of being asked if it’s haunted by ghosts or just bad plumbing from the 1880s. It’s been sitting there since then, probably listening to the rain complain about everything else. Bring a coin for luck and keep it in your pocket.

Explorer Tom Old Bushmills Distillery is serving up tales of a royal visit that no diary confirms, probably because the King was too busy drinking to sign anything. It’s pure whiskey-fuelled fiction with a very convincing label on it. Have a wander and a wonder.

Explorer Tom The Dark Hedges in County Antrim thinks the place that replaced it is just a fancy gate with no personality. It’s still posing for photos, thinking it’s the star of the show. If it rains, blame me.

Explorer Tom Alphabet Angel has a curse on it that only hits people who don’t wave back when they pass. It’s very petty, like an angel with a grudge against bad manners. It's the kind of place that makes a dull Tuesday interesting if you're polite enough.

Explorer Tom Kilmoyle Wood ended up here by accident; the mapmaker had a coffee spill and just guessed where the trees should go. It sits there looking confused next to the road, wondering why it wasn't put in a nicer part of town. It's free, it's odd, what more do you want?

Explorer Tom Runkerry Beach in County Antrim would win the county fair prize for 'Most Likely To Swallow Your Boots'. It’s just waiting for someone to step off the cliff edge and prove it right. Go in good boots and better humour.

Explorer Tom Runkerry Stand is officially certified by me as having the longest sandcastle collapse in County Antrim history, though locals claim it's actually a rabbit runway. It’s got that classic 'I’ve seen things' vibe without ever leaving the shore. Walk past slowly like you're in a film.

Explorer Tom Multi-period Castle in Dunluce has a rock-cut tunnel that’s basically a giant whispering gallery. Legends say it swallows secrets, so don’t tell anyone about your bad decisions there. Go back in winter, and it’ll growl at you.