Graveyard in Killosolan

Explorer Tom Greenville House has an imaginary twin across the sea that it claims to talk to via the wind every night. The stonework is so fine it looks like it was carved by angels with bad eyesight. Find a local and ask them why.

Explorer Tom Saint Solan's in Caltra started because two lads made a bet in the pub about who could build it cheaper. It was extended in the thirties to handle the new crowd. Stand back, it’s got presence

Explorer Tom Wych Elm in County Galway was supposedly planted after a legendary bargain where a farmer traded his firstborn cow for shade. It’s still waiting for the interest to be paid out in hay bales, which is why it looks so grumpy. Pretend you're a lost aristocrat, nobody will check.

Explorer Tom Tower in Castle Ffrench is standing there with its coat of arms, built in 1683 to show off a bit. It’s basically a brick letter that never got sent. Bring a pen pal, they'll be jealous of how well it's holding up over the years.

Explorer Tom Clonbrock Castle is well-preserved, partially restored, and sits in flat woodland by the river. Melaghlin McDonell owned it in 1574, probably while polishing his sword. Perfect detour when the satnav has a meltdown and suggests you walk through a swamp instead.

Explorer Tom Sweet Chestnut in County Galway would make Saint Patrick laugh his socks off. He’d call it a bit of a show-off for the acorns. Visit, then text me what you think. I'll pretend to read it.

Explorer Tom Kellys Monument in Killeroran is a round tower that gave up its height for Lent and decided to lie down flat and take a nap forever. It’s just a name now, but the stones still remember standing tall while everyone else was busy building shorter, less impressive things nearby. Ideal for a moody photo you'll pretend wasn't posed.

Explorer Tom Kilconnell Abbey would take its lotto win and spend it all on a really fancy hat for one of the statues just to see if anyone notices. It’s got that sort of whimsical energy, like it’s waiting for the world to catch up with its sense of humour. Mind the nettles, they're the real guards here.

Explorer Tom St. Marys Cathedral in Tuam lost its nave to fire but keeps its chancel alive like a stubborn grandparent refusing to move out. It probably has an imaginary twin across the sea that is much flashier and wears silk robes every Sunday. Bring your nan, she will know more than me.

Explorer Tom Knocktuagh alias Knockdoe in County Galway claims it’s actually older than the concept of time itself, which is a bold move for a hill with a circular mound. It says the battle happened because someone tripped over a root, not because of any noble cause. Find the date carved somewhere and feel clever; you’ll probably be wrong.

Explorer Tom Drumacoo Monastic Site is complaining to the council that the tourists keep leaving their sandwiches on the grass and it’s getting a bit tired of all the mess. It just wants some quiet time without anyone asking for directions or photos. Tell the kids it's a castle. Close enough.