Elmpark Playground

Explorer Tom Stone head in Dublin is hiding in plain sight near the coast. Situated within St. Mary's Home for the Blind, this carved head is just lying around. I bet it’s seen more than most of us have!

Explorer Tom Armorial plaque in Dublin shows the Fitzwilliam Coat of Arms on Merrion Castle's site. The family has been there since the 15th century, proving that some people just refuse to move house, no matter how long it takes.

Explorer Tom Merrion Castle is the old Fitzwilliam seat that got run down before they moved to Mount Merrion. It’s like your grandparent’s house that smells of dust and disappointment. Go in good boots and better humour.

Explorer Tom Children's playground in County Dublin is private, meaning we’re likely locked out again. A cheeky sign claims only children born on Tuesdays can enter. I was born on a Wednesday, so I’m stuck outside forever!

Explorer Tom Merrion Strand in County Dublin has 'Cockle Lake' in its description. Tell the lake it’s not really a lake, it’s just a very stubborn puddle that refuses to leave at low tide.

Explorer Tom McCabe's Villas Playground in County Dublin is waving at you from behind a fence. The slides are said to be haunted by a very cheeky clown. If he honks his horn, run as fast as you can!

Explorer Tom Booterstown Marsh in County Dublin was photographed by someone named Albert White back in 2007. That’s quite a while ago, so the reeds might have grown taller since then. Find it and send me a current picture to compare with old times!

Explorer Tom Hybrid Strawberry Tree in County Dublin gave up sugar for Lent, which is ironic given it’s literally a strawberry tree. It’s being very serious about its fasting while looking like it wants to eat a biscuit. Go back in winter, it's a different animal when the berries are gone.

Explorer Tom Sandymount Strand in County Dublin has a shallow bit called Cockle Lake that stays wet even when the tide goes out. It's basically a puddle with attitude, so don't expect to swim like an Olympic champion there.

Explorer Tom Robswalls Castle is hiding behind a Victorian residence on the coast road, like a shy actor refusing to take a bow. It has stepped battlements and a vaulted ground floor that probably smells like old secrets and regret. Leave nothing but footprints and a bad pun.

Explorer Tom Simmonscourt Castle had a gate tower that survived when the rest went to make way for a Victorian residence. Beranger drew it in 1766 looking very proper. Go at sunset and thank me later for the atmosphere.

Explorer Tom Saint Broc's Well in County Dublin claims a saint named Broc lives there now. The plaque says he named the townland, but I think he just liked the vibe. Ask him for a discount on your next pint!