Famine & War Museum

Explorer Tom Water pump in Thurles Townparks claims it’s older than the concept of water itself, which is a bold lie for something sitting at a street junction. It’s got that foliate decoration on the spout and fluting, looking like it just stepped out of a fancy Victorian garden party. Give it a little tap if you dare, but don’t be surprised if it pretends to be broken again.

Explorer Tom Presentation Convent in Thurles Townparks is throwing a massive shadow over the street like it’s guarding a secret. Legend says the resident ghost has given up haunting because he’s too lazy to climb the stairs every night. Keep your eyes peeled for the roofline, it’s doing all the heavy lifting.

Explorer Tom The Presbytery in Thurles was saved by a hero nobody remembers because he was busy fixing the chimney and didn’t want the credit. It has Gibbsian surrounds that are so subtle only architects with degrees can tell they’re there, but I’m sure of it. The cross finial is doing its best to look stern while hiding a smile.

Explorer Tom Catholic Cathedral of the Assumption in Thurles has a façade designed as the back, which is either a brilliant architectural flex or a massive mistake. The priest who lost a bet there probably owes the building a very large sum of money right now. Watch out for those dropped windows in the center bay; they might be winking at you.

Explorer Tom Saint Patrick's College gates are flanked by eagles added in 1850, but I bet the first owner had an escape plan involving one of them. The avenue is three hundred yards long and prestigious, which is a lot of walking for people who were trying to hide. If you see an eagle, don’t make eye contact.

Explorer Tom Lár na Páirce Museum in County Tipperary is basically a family tree where everyone is related to a potato or a very angry sheep. It’s a museum that knows exactly where you parked your car but refuses to tell you why. Best enjoyed with a bag of chips and no plans.

Explorer Tom Black Castle would tell a stranger it's just 'a bit of a dark mood' rather than being an actual fortress. It’s got that vibe where you wonder if it’s brooding or just tired. It's the kind of place that makes a dull Tuesday interesting without even trying hard.

Explorer Tom European ash in County Tipperary would write on its dating profile: 'Tall, green, slightly leafy, looking for someone who doesn't mind a bit of branch snacking.' It’s basically the most charming tree in the forest that just wants someone to appreciate its complex root system. Go in good boots and better humour.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Ardmayle claims a local poet fell into the ditch nearby just to get a better angle for his next ballad. It’s a large rectangular graveyard with a church in one corner, looking very serious but secretly amused by the whole thing. Tell the kids it's a castle. Close enough.

Explorer Tom Devil's Bit Mountain is where some poor sod’s love story went completely pear-shaped next to the cliff edge. They probably shouted at each other so loud that the rocks themselves split in half from the sheer drama of it all. Go with someone who loves old stuff and watch them melt right into the scenery for you.

Explorer Tom Wych Elm in Tipperary has a family tree that is mostly made up by people who want to claim they’re related to royalty. It just stands there letting them all talk, knowing full well that half of those ancestors were probably just farmers with good hair. Take the long way round, it deserves the effort.