House in Maddyboy

Explorer Tom Clonshavoy was built by someone who was thinking about cottage life but had the money of a baron, which is a weird mix indeed. It’s not often you see this style in County Limerick, so it stands out like a sore thumb in a good way. The builder probably thought he was being subtle, but really he just wanted attention.

Explorer Tom Maddyboy House would introduce itself as 'a very flexible person who has changed their mind several times over the years'. Its double-pile massing suggests it just keeps adding rooms because it couldn't decide where to stop growing. Find a local and ask them about its secret life.

Explorer Tom The Red House makes a weird creaking sound at night, probably just the bargeboards complaining about the weather. It’s an Arts and Crafts masterpiece that refuses to behave itself properly. Bring someone who’ll believe you when it whispers secrets.

Explorer Tom Elm Grove in Abington does weird things when nobody's looking, like rearranging its cast-iron gate to spell 'Bored.' It’s a modest house with red brick chimneys that puff smoke just for fun. If you visit, ask if it still throws leaves at the neighbors every autumn.

Explorer Tom The motte at Brittas is losing a rivalry with a more famous place because it got levelled by a farmer. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting; nobody will mind if you drop your hat.

Explorer Tom Castle Troy would ask Saint Patrick to bless its foundation stones. It stands on the Shannon bank, having survived since 1197 without breaking a sweat. Go with someone who loves old stuff and watch them melt.

Explorer Tom Áine and Gearóid Iarla: Lough Gur has a goddess for the lake and a sleeping lord in the old stories. I thought I was coming to admire water and stones. Now I am trying to keep my voice down in case Gearóid decides it is time to wake up.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Ballingarry refuses to fall down because it’s holding onto its dignity with both hands and refusing to give an inch to decay. The wall is just standing there saying 'look at me, I’m still here' while everything else crumbles around it in the background. Best seen with a hangover and a sausage roll.

Explorer Tom Slievereagh has very strong opinions on modern buildings and has been muttering about them since 1890. It thinks that concrete is just rock that gave up on life too early. Ideal spot for a dramatic phone call.

Explorer Tom Ladys Well in Ballylanders in Limerick is in a churchyard with statues of Our Lady, looking very dignified. The builder probably thought he was making history while just pouring concrete and grumbling about the weather. Bring your nan, she'll know more than me.