House in Coolcullen

Explorer Tom Coolcullen Church (Mothell) was likely built because two lads bet on who could build the ugliest tower in Kilkenny. The winner clearly lost his nerve and made it look classy instead of terrifying. Tell the next person you saw a ghost in the joinery.

Explorer Tom Glebe House in Coolcullen is deeply suspicious of the postman, believing every letter is a bill for sins not yet committed. It’s got that elegant classical doorcase that makes it look like it expects you to bow before entering. Tell the kids it's a castle and they’ll buy it instantly.

Explorer Tom Gallows Hill in County Carlow claims to be a shortcut but actually makes you walk twice as far for the privilege. It’s got some dark history about feudal executions that nobody wants to talk about over breakfast. Look for the ghost, then pretend you didn't.

Explorer Tom Sycamore in Kilkenny is guarding a legend about a giant who got stuck in its branches. It’s just a big tree with a dramatic backstory. Find the wonkiest bit and send it to your group chat.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Kilgory is suspicious of the postman because he keeps dropping letters on dead heads. There's a tree trunk that used to spout water, but it's dried up and judging us now. Bring the dog, it'll have opinions.

Explorer Tom St. Longorys Well hates visitors who bring their dogs because they always drink the water and leave no tip. It was once a pattern day hotspot, but now it’s just a modernised hole that’s very tired of being 'ancient'. Go before the tourists find out.

Explorer Tom European Yew has strict rules: no loud noises, no bright colours, and absolutely no questions about its age. It wants to be left alone to think about all the things it knows. Ideal stop for a big stretch and a bigger yawn.

Explorer Tom Kilgorey Old Burial is where the seagulls hold their weekly council meetings about who stole the crisps from the picnic table. The dead are probably annoyed by the noise, but they’re used to it by now. Bring a jacket, it's never as warm as I promise.

Explorer Tom The Garrison in Ardra is a motte that gave up halfway through its career. The local sheep think it’s just a fancy hill for napping. Ask them what they know about history and watch them chew their cud.

Explorer Tom Estate Yard in County Kilkenny used to run a water-powered mill and a metal foundry, which means it’s been busy as a one-horse open shop for centuries. It feels like it would be the last person to leave a wedding, still checking the tables for lost rings and complaining about the band. Mind the nettles, they’re the real guards here.

Explorer Tom Battlefield in Castlecomer, Drumgoole, Glebe, Kiltown claims to hear the 1798 rebels complaining about their shoes through the soil. It’s quite loud if you squint at the plaque. Visit, then text me what you think. I'll pretend to read it.

Explorer Tom Ballyfoyle Castle has a bird that refuses to leave, likely because the rent is cheap. The Purcells built it, but Cromwell’s men took over later. It's the kind of place that makes a dull Tuesday interesting.