Drumhome Graveyard

Explorer Tom Drumhome Old Church Graveyard has artistic cut stone markers and family vaults from the nineteenth century. It’s picturesque and interesting, so respect the space but snap those unique gravemarkers if you can see them clearly!

Explorer Tom Drumhome Old Church was said in 1622 to want only a roof; after repair or possible rebuilding, it served until 1795. The old survey found just an ivy-covered west gable with a bellcote remnant. 'Only a roof' is a wonderfully bold estimate when you know how the story ends.

Explorer Tom Murvagh Beach has a wartime lookout hut that Joy Browne, writing for Donegal tourism, remembers playing in as a child. She says erosion has since sunk it into the sand and made entry impossible. A lookout hut retiring by burying its feet is theatrical enough for me; I would leave it to its rest.

Explorer Tom Rooney's Island was once home to the O'Maoldory Clan, who ruled as Kings of Tir Conaill. I imagine a very serious coronation ceremony taking place on a patch of ground that barely fits a picnic blanket.

Explorer Tom Rossnowlagh seems determined to be a whole journey rather than one beach. Donegal tourism runs it from Coolmore’s cliffs to Carrickfad’s rock. I would need a bigger postcard for that stretch of golden sand; the surfers have probably had that problem for years.

Explorer Tom Salthill Cabin near Mountcharles is likely just a shed with a coffee machine and serious delusions of grandeur. It’s in Donegal, so expect rain to pour straight through the roof. Bring your worst joke, the place has heard worse.

Explorer Tom Ballyboyle Island is named after the O'Boyles, who were sub-chieftains of the O'Donnells, which sounds like a very expensive family dinner party. Toast it with a cup of tea and move on to the next one before you get hungry.

Explorer Tom Hawthorn in County Donegal is having a bit of a tantrum about needing permission to be seen. I'm told it's fancy stuff, but honestly, just hugging it might scare the locals off. Give it a wink for me.

Explorer Tom Killymard Old Church Graveyard encloses a church whose story changes after a bleak 1622 report: it was ruinous then, was later repaired or rebuilt, and remained in use until a new church opened at Ballydevitt in 1829. The earliest modern grave slab noted in the account dates to 1809. Two timelines fit inside one walled place.

Explorer Tom Another Wych Elm in Donegal, because apparently we can't have enough silent judges in our lives. This one seems particularly smug about being ancient and slightly damp. Tell it a joke, it's been a long time since anyone did.

Explorer Tom Sheebarran Ringfort is a massive circular space with a ditch so wide it could swallow a small car. It sits on the crest of a ridge with excellent views, making it the perfect spot for a dare to see how far you can shout. Use it as a yarn about being the king of the hill without actually wearing a crown.

Explorer Tom The Siege of Donegal is proud that it lasted long enough for everyone to run out of tea. It’s a very specific point of pride, but valid. Bring a flask and pretend you own the whole place, because technically, you do if you hold the cup.