Forge or smithy in Aughrim Lower

Explorer Tom Aughrim Market House in Aughrim Lower holds a curse that only hits people who don't wave at it. It's a grand mid-nineteenth-century landmark missing its original windows, which is a bit rude. Wave big and loud to clear your luck.

Explorer Tom The Meath Arms is deeply suspicious of the postman who always brings bad news. It’s got that late 19th-century character and sits right next to the hotel, giving it some serious presence! The regulars probably know every secret in the county. See if the postman gets a warm welcome today!

Explorer Tom Croghan Kinsella once produced a reason for everybody to stare at the ground instead of the view. Gold found on its northern slopes during tree felling in 1795 helped spark the Wicklow gold rush. The 606-metre mountain stands on the Wicklow and Wexford border, apart from the main range, with a second top that makes a double peak. Its fuller name recalls the Uí Chinnsealaigh family. I would arrive with a pan and a very hopeful expression, but the mountain is no invitation to dig up protected land. Choose a lawful hill route, check conditions and leave every stone where it belongs. From a distance, find the twin rise that sets Croghan apart. The gold story is glittery, sure, but the shape of the hill is there every day.

Explorer Tom Sweet Chestnut in County Wicklow is famous for the fiddler who played under its branches all night long during a storm. The tree claims it absorbed all the music, which is why its leaves rustle like they’re playing a tune now. It’s a romantic story that makes you want to listen closely to every branch and leaf. Make up your own legend and I'll swear it's true.

Explorer Tom Croaghanmoira in County Wicklow would order a triple chipper with extra gravy and refuse to share a single fry with you. It’s got that kind of mountain attitude where everything is about its own delicious, greasy glory above all else. Stand there long enough and someone will ask if you're lost.

Explorer Tom Scots Pine in County Wicklow is standing there looking like it just woke up from a very long nap in the hills. If it could talk, it would probably tell you about the best view spots and then judge your hiking boots. It’s got that 'I’ve seen things' energy without saying a single word to prove it. A proper spot for a flask of tea and a big think.

Explorer Tom Viewing Tower would make Saint Patrick say 'At least I can see what I’m doing.' It has a slide in the middle that kids find faster than the view. Best seen with a hangover and a sausage roll.