Fr. James Roche

Explorer Tom Townparks’ Immaculate Conception church looks like it’s plotting its own retirement party in ruby-red brick. Pugin’s influence is all over the place, which means it takes itself very seriously indeed. Try not to look too impressed, or it might get a big head about its axes.

Explorer Tom Gates in Townparks swear there’s a hidden tunnel straight through to the pub. The Mill Road Iron Works made them back when iron was still new and shiny. I say they’re just jealous of the flow of traffic, but you never know with these secretive little boundaries.

Explorer Tom Ashgold House in Townparks is having a quiet rivalry with every other fancy house on Rowe Street Upper. It’s got those slim windows that look like they’re squinting at you suspiciously, probably calculating how much you owe for parking too close. Don’t let it intimidate you; it’s all bluster and no bite.

Explorer Tom This Historic building in Townparks wonders why the wind keeps picking on it, probably because it has seven siblings to ignore. It’s got that slender vertical thrust and subtle tiered effect, which is just it trying to stand out in a crowd. Give it a hug before the breeze starts up.

Explorer Tom These cobbles in Townparks have a dating profile that just says 'solid' and 'will support you'. They’re not flashy, but they never let your boots sink into the mud. A bit like my uncle, only with more grit.

Explorer Tom Graveyard or cemetery in Townparks is sick of being asked if the ghosts are friendly, so they’ve all agreed to just snore really loudly instead. It’s a bit awkward for the tourists who expect spooky whispers but get nothing but heavy breathing from the headstones. Listen carefully, because you might hear a sneeze!

Explorer Tom Mausoleum in Townparks is where John Hyacinth Talbot parked his wife Anne Eliza because he was feeling particularly grand about granite. Imagine paying good money to stand still and look broody while everyone else enjoys the fresh air outside. Try not to imagine what he’d write on the plaque if he could talk.

Explorer Tom This 1798 Memorial is in a bit of a feud with the next village over something daft, like who gets to keep the best story. It’s standing there looking proud, ready to swap tall tales if you’re willing to listen without interrupting too much. Bring your own legend, I've run out.

Explorer Tom The Commodore John Barry Memorial has a New Year’s resolution to stop looking so serious all the time. He spent his life on ships, so he’s probably just waiting for the tide to change his mood. A proper spot for a flask of tea and a big think about nothing.

Explorer Tom Quay in Wexford is built on a legend about a giant who dropped his shoe and refused to pick it up out of pride. The walls are still there, looking very dignified despite being under two meters of history. Look up, the best bit is always higher than you think.

Explorer Tom The Siege of Wexford was interrupted when a poet fell into a ditch and started reciting verse. The soldiers paused to listen because he was actually quite good at it. It ruined the momentum completely. Bring wellies and low expectations, leave delighted.

Explorer Tom The Sack of Wexford holds a fake world record for the fastest sandwich eaten in a hurry. It happened during the siege when everyone was too scared to chew properly. It’s a very stressful culinary achievement. Have a sandwich here and call it a heritage lunch.