Fairy Bush Loop

Explorer Tom Island View in Fornaght is a gateway that probably drank forty cups of tea before it even finished building itself. The stone finials are so fancy they’re basically wearing jewelry, while the iron gates just stand there looking smugly superior to everything else nearby. Gorgeous mess.

Explorer Tom Hayes in Leckaun would post a selfie of its thatch roof with the caption 'Living my best low-life history' right now. It’s got those thick walls and battlements that make it look like a tiny fortress guarding nothing but a quiet street. Smile for the camera, mate.

Explorer Tom Harbour and Park walk keeps its secrets tight until after a few pints, when it starts spilling the beans about which boat captain kissed whom behind the shed. It’s got that salty, gossipy energy, smelling of tar and old rumours that refuse to die no matter how much wind blows through. Spot the oldest stone and give it a name.

Explorer Tom Woodstown Strand is currently in a heated argument with the nearest tree about who looks better from the east side. The tree has been winning since roughly Tuesday afternoon, which is frankly embarrassing for the sand. Pop by and tell it it's looking well.

Explorer Tom Rathmoylan Cove insists that if you kiss the water, your next bad day gets transferred to a seagull somewhere else. Locals swear by this superstition with terrifying conviction. Get there early and have it all to yourself.

Explorer Tom The White Lady gave up meat for Lent last year because she felt a bit guilty about standing on all those little bugs. She’s a striking standing stone, but I’m sure she’d prefer we didn't call her 'White' as that’s a lot of pressure. Pack a picnic and an excuse.

Explorer Tom Duncannon Beach keeps getting picked on by the wind like it’s got something to hide. There are steps down there that seem to have a grudge against my knees. A handy spot to stretch your legs and your imagination.

Explorer Tom Ballyhack Castle claims some fiddler played there all night until his fingers turned into knots of pure music. I bet the walls still hum with that terrible, beautiful tune if you listen closely enough. Look up, because the best bit is always higher than you think.

Explorer Tom Ballyhack Castle is confused enough that historians have mistaken it for Ballyhoge, which means its least favourite visitor is probably anyone who knows their Irish history. It’s sitting in the Dunbrody estate acting like it belongs there, but everyone keeps getting the name wrong. Get there early and have the whole mess to yourself.

Explorer Tom Common Whitebeam has a secret talent for looking surprised every single time you blink at it. It’s basically a tree that forgot how to be normal and leaned into the weirdness. Get a photo with it before it gets a better agent.