Howard Grubb

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Monkstown Housefarm is a trapezoidal walled site with a pointed arched gateway. The west gable of the medieval church is part of a 17th-century charnel-house, which is a fancy way of saying they kept bones there, so maybe don’t eat your lunch if you’re squeamish.

Explorer Tom Church in Monkstown Housefarm has its gable incorporated into a 17th-century charnel-house, which is a very efficient use of space if you’re okay with bones. A goat once ruled this place and left the door open, so don’t blame me for the mess. Best visited with a curious kid and no timetable to follow.

Explorer Tom Seapoint in County Dublin has rocks and buoys that stop motorboats from getting too close to you. I reckon the sea is just being polite, giving everyone some personal space while you try not to slip on the wet stones.

Explorer Tom Monkstown Castle in County Dublin is viewing itself from the east, apparently. It's a heritage attraction, so it must have some stories to tell. Peek over the walls and see what secrets are hiding there!

Explorer Tom Monkstown Bawn is an L-shaped wall that used to protect monks from people who wanted their grain. Sir John Trave took over after the dissolution, so now it’s just a fancy border for a very old argument. Visit, then text me what you think. I'll pretend to read it and nod sagely.

Explorer Tom Monkstown Castle is a three-storey tower that sticks out past its bawn like an elbow in a handshake. It’s got battlements and a spiral stair that probably breaks your knees. Bring biscuits, every good story needs biscuits and someone to complain about the damp.

Explorer Tom Stradbrook Hall in Stradbrook was built by Francis Codd to show off his views of Dublin Bay, which is basically just saying 'look how much land I own.' It’s described as a handsome seat with pleasing villas around it, so if you’re not dressed up, you’ll feel like an intruder. Tell the neighbours who replaced it that this is where the real class lives!

Explorer Tom Children's playground in County Dublin is locked up tighter than a drum. The gate says private, but I bet you there's a secret tunnel inside.

Explorer Tom DLR Tourism is promising day trips from Dublin, but I've done them all and mostly just got tired and hungry. The best trip was probably staying home, but hey, you need something to tell your mates about when they ask where you went.

Explorer Tom King George IV Monument in County Dublin is showing off his royal chin. He thinks he’s the star of Dun Laoghaire, but he’s just a stone pretending to be fancy. Wave at him if you see him!

Explorer Tom Grange Church was founded by St Fintan back in the sixth century, which means it’s seen more drama than any reality TV show ever could. The nave is in ruins now, so imagine the scandalous gossip still echoing off those broken walls. If it's closed, admire it from the road like a polite stalker.

Explorer Tom James Joyce Pub Award in County Dublin is given for being an authentic Irish pub. Which mostly means they serve cold stew and stare at you. Enjoy the vibe!