Franciscan Graveyard

Explorer Tom Franciscan Abbey Catholic Church has a hidden treasure that’s definitely just a biscuit tin in the walls. The Doric portico looks serious, but the angel masks inside are cheeky. Ideal for a quick prayer or a long chat.

Explorer Tom Convent of Mercy in Townparks thinks Dublin tourists are just people who forgot how to use a map. It overlooks the River Corrib like a stern aunt watching you eat your dinner. Tell the stained glass Tom says it’s showing off its colors because nobody is looking at the masonry.

Explorer Tom Galway Courthouse has a bird that refuses to leave even though the judges have all gone home for the day. It sits on the portico looking regal while the royal coat of arms was moved elsewhere, leaving it in charge. Loosen your tie and pretend you’re there for a very short trial of your own.

Explorer Tom Salmon Weir Bridge is guarding a hidden tunnel that leads straight to the best pub in town, provided you can convince a very grumpy fish to let you pass. It’s all very mysterious until you realize the tunnel is just a really long drain pipe with no exit. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.

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 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 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 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 I came to Eyre Square expecting a patch of grass, and Galway handed me a travelling doorway. The space began outside a medieval town gate, where markets used the open ground; Mayor Edward Eyre gave the square to the city in 1710. A stone wall, different layouts and a few names followed. John F. Kennedy spoke here on 29 June 1963 while he was president of the United States, yet most Galwegians still call the place Eyre Square. Fair play to a name that can outlast a visiting president. Look for the Browne Doorway, originally part of a 1627 house on Abbeygate Street and moved here in 1905. That is one house part with more trips than my suitcase. The square is public ground in the city centre, beside the railway station and shopping streets, so you can wander in without a ticket. Circle the old doorway and ask where the rest of its house went.