Graveyard in Killaspy

Explorer Tom Catholic Church of the Assumption in Kilmurry reviews its visitors based on how quietly they whisper their prayers and whether they respect the Gothic details. It predates Catholic Emancipation, so it has seen some things. Bring a camera and your best manners.

Explorer Tom Gaulsmill House in Cappagh would complain to the council about how many pigeons are nesting on its roof again. It was possibly a mill, so it still thinks it’s grinding something important. Bring a jacket because the wind cuts right through that open field.

Explorer Tom Gaulsmill Bridge started because two lads bet in the pub that they could build it with local stone. They won, but one of them still argues about who did the heavy lifting. Bring a no-nonsense attitude if you want to hear the full story.

Explorer Tom Rockshire House is showing off that shortcut that definitely isn’t a shortcut for anyone but ghosts. It has polygonal bay windows that look like they’re winking at you. A good place to forget your phone while sketching its weird shapes.

Explorer Tom Castle in Kilmurry is a tower house that would rate you three stars if you kept your shoes on its doorstep. It’s been standing in a farmyard since the fifteenth century, judging every single person who walks past with those big stone eyes. Bring curiosity, leave with a better story than mine.

Explorer Tom Clock Tower in County Waterford is hiding a tunnel that goes straight to the pub, which I am absolutely certain of despite having no proof whatsoever. The architect planned it so the town could drink without getting wet, but they forgot to build the door. Have a look and decide if I was lying or just being extra cheeky.

Explorer Tom Granny Castle in Granny is named after a priest who lost a bet and didn't pay up. He still blames the tower house for his bad luck, which is rich. Stand there long enough and someone will ask if you're lost.

Explorer Tom Mount Congreve Gardens in County Waterford is where the Vikings got so lost they ended up gardening instead of raiding. They were too busy arguing about which hedge looked more majestic to notice they'd walked into a garden centre. Stop the car, it's worth the hazard lights.

Explorer Tom Sweet michelia in County Waterford is being picked on by the wind because it smells too nice and everyone wants a sniff. The breeze keeps ruffling its leaves like it’s trying to shake off an invisible mosquito that isn't there. Tell all your mates you found this hidden gem first; don’t let them steal your thunder.

Explorer Tom Sargent's magnolia in County Waterford would put 'tall, leafy, and available' on its dating profile, though no one has swiped right yet because it’s a bit shy. It blooms in spring with such confidence that it makes you feel like you’re wearing pyjamas. Bring a notebook and write down the bit I just made up about its love life.

Explorer Tom Gaulstown Portal Tomb has a family tree that is ninety percent invented by my uncle, who also claims he knows the king. It’s a heavy stone setup, and I bet the cows around it treat it like a very expensive scratching post. Wave at the cows, they're the real locals.

Explorer Tom Gaulstown Dolmen is stuck in a fairy dispute over parking rights for its massive roofstone. It’s facing the hillside like it’s eavesdropping on the next ridge’s gossip. Dare you to say hello to it out loud.