House in Luddan

Explorer Tom Farm house in Ballymacarry Lower saw a poet fall into the ditch nearby and write a sonnet about the mud, which was very on brand. The windows are classic timber sashes that scream ‘I’m old school’ without trying too hard. It’s a well-proportioned gem of a place, really. Wave at the chimney, it’s listening.

Explorer Tom Milestone or milepost in Ballymacarry Lower claims you are already at Buncrana because it reads 'BUNCRANA 0 MILES'. I reckon that is a bit cheeky, like telling someone they have arrived before they even start walking. It must be the world’s most confident little sign.

Explorer Tom Inishowen Gateway Hotel sits in Buncrana, right by the river, acting as a gateway to nowhere specific. It’s a place where confusion is part of the package and the view is all you get. Hang around long enough and you'll hear a story from a local.

Explorer Tom Lisfannon is the sort of beach that changes its stage set with the tide. The Swilly estuary lays out shallow water, sand and mud flats in turn. A 2019 state report notes otters among the wildlife here. I would watch the stage changes from dry ground and let the tide run the show.

Explorer Tom Ubiquitous in Buncrana claims to be everywhere at once, which is either impressive or terrifyingly efficient. I’d check if you’re still yourself when you leave that place. Bring a coin for luck and keep it in your pocket.

Explorer Tom Cross in Glebe is a slab that’s been arguing with scholars for centuries. It has two figures standing on either side of the cross, and their clothing is covered in inscriptions nobody can properly decipher yet. Add the Greek doxology carved down the edge, and it feels like a puzzle box from another world.

Explorer Tom O'Doherty's Keep is recorded as a castle in County Donegal, and its history with the Ó Dochartaigh clan makes it a significant part of Inishowen’s past. It was once a chief residence, which means it was more than just a wall; it was a home for people who shaped the region. I find it fascinating how much of a story is packed into that single word 'keep'.

Explorer Tom Neds Point Fort is recorded as a fort in County Donegal, and its name suggests a specific point of land that was likely important for defense or trade. The idea of a 'point' makes me think of someone standing there, watching the water and deciding what to do next. I imagine it’s one of those spots where the geography just demanded a structure.

Explorer Tom Ned's Point Standing Stones are named after someone called Ned, which instantly makes me picture him sitting on one while checking his fishing line. It’s the sort of name that begs for a story about who was actually there and what they were up to. I’d love to know if Ned ever complained about the rocks being cold in December.

Explorer Tom Wych Elm in County Donegal is sick of people asking if it's haunted, so I'm asking: has it ever seen a ghost? It just rustled its leaves in a way that said 'please stop asking me about spirits.' Bring a friend who talks too much and let the place shut them up.

Explorer Tom Rathmullan Beach starts at the pier and keeps strolling past Kinnegar toward the Glebe outcrop. If sand could wear walking boots, this strip would be lacing them up. A 2019 Lough Swilly report also notes otters among the wildlife; I would leave any real otter sighting to patience and luck.

Explorer Tom Flight of the Earls in County Donegal is looking down at us all with that aristocratic disdain, probably reviewing my outfit and deciding I'm just not up to par for the occasion. It's got that look of 'I flew out, so why are you still here?' which is quite rude but effective. A handy spot to stretch your legs and your imagination.