Goresbridge Graveyard

Explorer Tom Catholic Church of the Holy Trinity in Grange Lower makes a spooky sound at night that sounds like coughing. Probably just the wind being dramatic about its life choices. Stand back, squint, and it lo

Explorer Tom Saint Bridget's Convent in Grange Lower, County Kilkenny nearly became famous when a celebrity visited by mistake. The nuns just smiled and served tea, which was more impressive than any fame. If it's closed, admire it from afar like a polite ghost.

Explorer Tom Font in Grange Lower thinks tourists from Dublin are all wind and no substance, especially when they try to act like they know how to use a stone basin properly. It’s just sitting there judging their every move while pretending to be completely relaxed and unbothered by the whole situation. Stand there long enough and someone will ask if you're lost.

Explorer Tom Lady Well in Grange Lower has an oratory next to it, which is fancy for a well. It would say 'I’m not dry, I’m contemplative' to its replacement. Get there early and have it all to yourself.

Explorer Tom Castle in Paulstown is run by a dog who knows more about history than any guidebook. The Butlers built it, but the dogs have been in charge of security since forever. Bring a jacket, it's never as warm as I promise.

Explorer Tom Neigham Castle in Neigham claims to be older than the concept of time itself. Sir James Butler built it right before he dropped dead, which is weird. Toast it with tea and move on, love.

Explorer Tom Hybrid Black Poplar in County Carlow is basically a tree that went to college and forgot why it was there. The rabbits think it's a giant salad bowl they can't quite reach. Bring your own legend, I've run out of facts.

Explorer Tom Pedunculate Oak in County Carlow wants 'Resting' on its tombstone, not 'Died'. It's too dignified for anything else. Bring a jacket, it's never as warm as I promise, even if the tree looks cozy enough to hug.

Explorer Tom Church and Graveyard in Wells has been feuding with that big tree for centuries, both too proud to admit they need each other’s shade. The church was there back in 1262, so it’s seen a lot of gossip. Give it a pat on the way past; it’s had a long life.

Explorer Tom Lock Keeper's House and Lodge Mills in County Carlow is where the rabbits hold their weekly strategy meetings to take over the river. They’re plotting to flood the lock gates during the next full moon. Have a nosey, politely.

Explorer Tom The Columban Way had a matchmaker who worked there for decades, pairing up lonely walkers with particularly handsome bushes. Her method was simple: stand still until someone else does too. Best enjoyed with a bag of chips and no plans.

Explorer Tom Tullaherin Round Tower has strict rules for visitors: don't touch anything, don't breathe too loud, and definitely don't ask it how old it is because it will get defensive. It’s basically a stone stick figure that demands respect but offers very little in return except a great view of the fields. Hum something sad nearby, it adds atmosphere.