Enclosure? in Forthill

Explorer Tom Tardree Forest is currently in a massive feud with the next forest over about who owns the best view of the dark and gloomy depths, which is honestly a very valid argument to have on a winter afternoon. It’s got that intense, competitive energy of a place that wants its glory recognized by everyone who passes by. It's the kind of place that makes a dull Tuesday interesting.

Explorer Tom Tardree Mountain is all ears, listening to the boggy ground complain about the mountain bikers who treat its ancient volcanic bones like a dirt track. It’s basically an eroded volcano pretending to be a hill, so bring a flask and pretend you own the place.

Explorer Tom Presbyterian Church in Kells, County Antrim, has a favourite song that it hums whenever the wind blows through its windows. It’s actually quite catchy if you listen closely, but most people think it’s just creaking. This is an ideal place to rehearse your best excuse for being late.

Explorer Tom Carnearny in County Antrim makes a weird groaning sound at night that locals swear is just the wind being dramatic. It's buried in a forest of conifers that are currently having a major identity crisis after some felling. Take a mate and argue about what it was for.

Explorer Tom Shank Bridge near Kells is doing its best to look mysterious, but it’s just a bridge with excellent posture. The first owner had an escape plan involving a rowboat and a very confused duck. Best visited with a curious kid and no timetable; let them roam free.

Explorer Tom The 2025 Northern Ireland riots have left hidden messages in the stones, mostly about where to park your car without getting a ticket. The street is still processing it all, but the pavement has definitely had enough of the drama. Bring the dog, it'll have opinions.

Explorer Tom Shane's Castle has changed its name, lost buildings to fire and even tried running a railway. Show-off. It began in 1345 as Edenduffcarrick, a name I would need three attempts to announce from a gatehouse. The present name recalls Shane McBrian McPhelim O'Neill, who ruled Lower Clandeboy around the turn of the seventeenth century. In 1809 the family planned a rebuilding by John Nash, but a fire in 1816 left the older castle in ruins; the family papers were rescued. Another grand house rose later and was itself burnt in 1922. For a less grim surprise, a narrow-gauge visitor railway once ran through the grounds, opening in 1971 and closing in 1995. I would have bought a ticket just to watch the castle go past. This is estate ground, so check present access or events and do not assume every ruin is open to roam. The surviving walls have had enough unexpected visitors for several centuries.

Explorer Tom Shane’s Castle in Shanes Castle Park is ruins, but it looks like it just stepped out for a smoke break. The tower-house is still standing tall, probably judging your shoes. Bring the dog, it'll have opinions.

Explorer Tom Doagh Cemetery smells like wet wool and old books mixed together, according to Tom, which is exactly the kind of scent you need to appreciate this place properly. It’s got that distinct, earthy aroma that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world entirely. Visit, then text me what you think. I'll pretend to read it.

Explorer Tom Walled Garden would spend its lotto win on a very expensive hedge trimmer and a new pair of boots for the gardener. It’s all about keeping the edges sharp and the secrets safe. Look serious, nod slowly, you're basically an expert now.

Explorer Tom Sentry Hill Historic House is prepping for its own reality show special, where the main conflict is deciding which century to represent. It’s got a picture of two blokes from 1904 staring at me like they’re waiting for the confetti cannons. If it rains out there, blame me.