Emmet Fox

Explorer Tom Roma at Ringmeen is named after Italy but stays true to its Italianate roots. Built c. 1850, it’s got those square-headed openings that look like they’re about to say something important. The Crescent is definitely the place to be.

Explorer Tom The Palace in Ringmeen is a bishop's palace from c.1860 with an H-plan that looks like it's hiding something. It's got Doric columns and full-height bay windows at the back. The boundary walls are ornate too, so keep your eyes peeled for piers.

Explorer Tom White Star House in Ringmeen is probably named after the Titanic but built like a tank. C. 1850 Italianate style with two-storey bay windows makes it look like a luxury liner on land. The Crescent is really something else, isn't it?

Explorer Tom The Shambles has a limestone entrance that was crafted by 19th-century artisans who clearly had no patience for mediocrity. It’s named after old meat markets, which is a bit gross for such a precise piece of masonry. Tell me if you see any hidden tunnels to the pub, because I need to know where to hide when it gets loud.

Explorer Tom Convent of Mercy in Ringmeen boasts a Harry Clarke window that cost £285 back in 1930, which was serious money then. The four-storey building makes a strong statement on Spy Hill. Photograph that jewel-like window!

Explorer Tom John F. Kennedy Park would say in a job interview that it’s very flexible, multilingual, and great with children, even though it’s just a patch of grass. It prides itself on its international connections without actually having left the county once since 1963. Ring your granny and tell her where you are.

Explorer Tom Building the Titanic Memorial took roughly forty-seven cups of tea, or maybe fifty, I’m honestly not sure but the builders were definitely thirsty. It stands on the beach looking very serious about its own importance. If it rains, blame me.

Explorer Tom Saint Colman's Cathedral in Cobh does something weird when nobody’s looking: it probably rearranges its own pews just to mess with anyone who tries to take a shortcut. It’s right by the harbour, so it looks majestic, but the acoustics are definitely playing tricks on you. Best visited with a curious kid and no timetable.

Explorer Tom Cunard Líne Offices is judging your outfit because you didn’t bring a monocle or a very expensive hat. It’s where the fancy ships used to plan their routes across the big blue ocean to nowhere in particular. Visit, then text me what you think. I'll pretend to read it.

Explorer Tom Haulbowline in County Cork hosted a love story that ended with someone throwing a naval vessel at their ex-partner. It’s got military vibes but feels more like a messy breakup scene on a very large scale. Find the wonkiest bit and send it to your group chat.

Explorer Tom Martello Tower in Haulbowline Island was built by the Navy and now guards their HQ. It’s got wooden stairs and a water tank up top. Tell it I said g'day from across the harbour, will you?

Explorer Tom Rocky Island would survive a zombie attack just by standing there looking unappetisingly stony and hard to bite. Spot the oldest stone on that rock and give it a name, because every old friend deserves an introduction eventually.