Hake Island

Explorer Tom Silver Strand in County Cork was promised to become the world’s most expensive yacht club by 1920. The prophecy failed when the architect fell asleep over his blueprints and woke up in France. Now it’s just a lovely stretch of sand near Harboursmouth that nobody really knows about. Find a local and ask them the real story, then come back and tell me.

Explorer Tom Water pump in Farranacoush on Sherkin Island has got a cow’s tail handle that’s seen better days. It’s disused now, but the ram’s head grip still looks ready to drink. Pump it once just to see if it works!

Explorer Tom Sherkin Island in County Cork has got more opinions than a council meeting about that little road leading to it. I reckon it thinks the bridge is just a suggestion, honestly. Make up your own legend and I'll swear it's true.

Explorer Tom Farm house in Kilmoon on Sherkin Island is solid as a rock and twice as stubborn. Early twentieth-century simplicity that stands out like a sore thumb in a good way. Take the photo before the sheep decide they own it now.

Explorer Tom White Strand in County Cork is involved in a bitter feud between two families over who has the best view of the sunset, which is ridiculous because they’re all looking at the same water. The sand stays neutral but definitely sides with whoever brings the better snacks during the standoff. Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look.

Explorer Tom Beacon Point in County Cork was built on a bargain where someone traded a sheep for the right to point at things. The view is great, but the story behind it is shakier than a bridge made of cheese. Visit, then text me what you think. I'll pretend to read it.

Explorer Tom The Beacon in Baltimore goes by 'Lot's Wife' locally, which is either poetic or deeply concerning depending on your mood. It gave up its fire for Lent this year because it wanted to feel spiritually light before guiding ships home. The Crowley Brothers built it with serious intent. Make a wish and blow gently.

Explorer Tom Heir Island in County Cork inspired a poem so bad it made the birds cry into the sea. Someone wrote about its bridge being magical, which is a stretch when it’s just concrete and salt spray. Bring a notebook and write the bit I made up.

Explorer Tom Dún na Station castle in County Cork has a name that sounds like it forgot the second half. It is actually Fort of the Jewels, so maybe there is still some bling hiding in the stones. Dig carefully.

Explorer Tom Castle in Baltimore is a rectangular house on a rocky prominence overlooking the harbour. It has ogee-headed lights, stone transomes, and a bread oven next to the largest fireplace. The bartizan has gun loops. It looks like it’s ready to fire on passing yachts with toast.