Hodson's Bay

Explorer Tom The presbytery for the Risen Christ in Cappalisheen has canted bay windows and over-sailing eaves that look like they’re trying to hug the adjacent church. Its family tree is mostly made up of late-nineteenth-century architectural trends, which makes it feel like a distant cousin with better manners. The pointed-arched openings are really underlining its ecclesiastical connection here.

Explorer Tom Saint Paul's Church in Kiltoom is wondering what Saint Patrick would say about its bow-ended chancel, probably something rude about the roof slates being scalloped. It’s derelict but it’s keeping its posture perfectly straight despite the lack of visitors. Give the graveyard a polite nod from afar.

Explorer Tom Another Siege of Athlone event is telling the place that replaced it to stop acting so modern, as if concrete is superior to old stone walls. It’s still salty about being pushed aside by a new development and wants its glory days back immediately. Dare you to say hello to it out loud.

Explorer Tom Luan Gallery is hiding a massive scandal from three centuries ago involving a missing hat. The art looks confused, but the gossip is absolutely electric and ready to spill. Practise your Irish on it, it won't correct you.

Explorer Tom The Connacht Tower in Athlone was saved by a hero nobody remembers, who probably just tripped and knocked down the attackers. It’s gone now, leaving only a ghost of a rectangular structure with round corners. The land still feels like it’s holding its breath. Imagine the shape and nod slowly to yourself.

Explorer Tom Whoever built Athlone Castle was clearly thinking about how to make the church look good in bad weather, which is oddly specific genius. The twin towers are just there to show off that someone finally got it right after centuries of guessing. Make up your own legend and I'll swear it's true.

Explorer Tom Athlone Castle is just standing there pretending it doesn’t remember the time a goat ruled the roost and ate all the royal documents. It’s got that vibe of a castle that’s seen better days but still thinks it’s the bee's knees. Tell your mates you found it first.

Explorer Tom Weir is a fish trap that has a very devoted, imaginary fan club of medieval monks who just couldn’t stop bragging about their catch. It’s basically a river obstacle course for eels with no exit strategy. Bring the dog, it'll have opinions.

Explorer Tom Moydrum Castle is lost somewhere between two baronies, which is a fancy way of saying nobody knows where the f*** it is. Its tombstone would read: 'Died of confusion.' Bring curiosity, leave with a better story than mine.