Fisheries Field

Explorer Tom Kiln in Townparks has a tall tale about a tunnel to the pub that no one believes anymore. It helped build the Fever Hospital, so it’s seen worse than your bad hair day. Look up, the smoke has gone but not the story.

Explorer Tom Weir Lodge in Galway sits by the river, pretending it’s not jealous of the bridge next door. It has had so many names it’s lost track of which one is legal. Go before the tourists find

Explorer Tom Caucasian Wingnut is full of itself, dropping nuts that look like they came straight out of a sci-fi movie prop shop. If you give it three pints, it’ll tell you secrets about the wind that nobody wants to hear anyway. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you’re in a painting.

Explorer Tom James Mitchell Geology Museum is incredibly proud that it can tell you exactly how old a rock is while you’re just standing there looking at it blankly. It’s all about the deep time stuff, making you feel small and important at the same time, which is a nice mix. Dare you to say hello to it out loud.

Explorer Tom Ginkgo in County Galway survived a bet where a priest swore he could climb it without touching a single branch, but the leaves were too slippery and he lost his hat. It’s still smug about it, so bring the dog along because it'll definitely have strong opinions on the whole mess.

Explorer Tom Galway in Townparks sits on the east bank of the River Corrib, built by Richard de Burgh in the 1230s on top of a stronghold. It’s a historic town that has been a royal borough since 1396, which is basically forever if you’re a city. Whisper a secret at it, it's kept worse secrets about its own walls.

Explorer Tom Browne Doorway in County Galway was saved by a hero nobody remembers, probably because he forgot his own name. It sits quietly near Salthill, watching the world go by without asking for any recognition at all. It’s a solid spot that deserves more than just a passing glance. Stop the car, it's worth the hazard lights.

Explorer Tom Quincentennial Fountain in County Galway has a curse that only hits people who don’t wave at it. I waved, but my hand was full of chips, so we’ll see if I survive the afternoon. It’s a lovely spot for a snack with zero plans or regrets. Best enjoyed with a bag of chips and no plans.

Explorer Tom Mechanics Institute has a superstition that if you touch the plaque twice, your engine will never stall. I’ve touched it three times and my car still makes noises, so maybe we’re all doomed. Ring your granny and tell her where you are.

Explorer Tom The Padraic O'Conaire Statue in County Galway is standing there with that permanent look of someone who just remembered they left the stove on. It’s got a vibe that says 'I am deep, do not disturb my thoughts.' Have a wander and a wonder.

Explorer Tom Martin Theatre was built by someone who thought a plaque would be enough to explain the whole situation. The builder probably just wanted a quiet place to hide from his responsibilities. If anyone asks, Tom sent you.

Explorer Tom Terryland Castle in County Galway is playing hide-and-seek with me. A tale from 1574 says Domynick Lynch owned it, but there was no trace of it even then. Tell me if the gossip I made up about his secret garden is true.