Glengra Castle

Explorer Tom Glenogra Castle thinks it’s much grander than its current pile-of-stones state suggests, probably because the seagulls tell it so every morning. It was built by an Earl who thought he could do better than his father’s design. Have a look and decide if I was lying.

Explorer Tom Glenogra Bridge in Glenogra is elegant enough that a cow once tried to buy it for its cut limestone. The random rubble walls are a bit rough, but the craftsmanship shines through. Go at sunset and thank me later for the tip.

Explorer Tom Green Lawn is built by someone who thought they were being very subtle about it. The builder was probably thinking, 'I shall put an extra window there and call it art.' It’s still standing despite recent alterations, which is impressive for a house with that much ego.

Explorer Tom Saint Mary's Catholic Church in Meanus had a fox take charge of the parish for three days once. The stained glass is probably still confused about what actually happened during that weird week. Look up, the best bit is always at the top!

Explorer Tom Monasteranenagh Abbey has a hidden message in its stones if you squint really hard and believe in things. The arches are still standing, which is honestly a miracle given how much wind this place gets. If it rains, blame me entirely for not telling you.

Explorer Tom Lough Gur in Limerick is caught in a feud between two families over who owns the best view from the hillside, which has been going on since before they had proper surnames. It’s all about perspective and who can yell the loudest without getting winded. Go on, count the windows and get it wrong like I did.

Explorer Tom Stone Circles in Grange have a family tree that is mostly made up of other circles nearby. They’re all just hanging out near the road, waiting for something to happen. Go before the tourists find out.

Explorer Tom European ash is thinking about what the builder was really thinking when they planted it here. It stands quietly in County Limerick, waiting for someone to notice its impressive height. Ideal for a moody photo you'll pretend wasn't posed.

Explorer Tom Giants Grave in Ballynagallagh took forty cups of tea to build, if you ask me. The stones lean so hard they're practically falling over into Lough Gur. Go with someone who loves old stuff and watch them melt completely.

Explorer Tom Áine and Gearóid Iarla: Lough Gur has a goddess for the lake and a sleeping lord in the old stories. I thought I was coming to admire water and stones. Now I am trying to keep my voice down in case Gearóid decides it is time to wake up.

Explorer Tom Ballinveala Castle nearly got famous when someone almost found it but looked in the wrong field. It’s four stories of brickwork pretending to be taller than it actually is. Take the long way round, it deserves the effort.