Enclosure in Aghnacross, County Laois (LA030-015----)

Explorer Tom This blackthorn has a prophecy that it will turn into gold if you tickle it, which has never once happened in four hundred years. It’s just a thorny little show-off. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place.

Explorer Tom Saint Laserian's Catholic Church in Graiguenahown is a five-bay cross that would bring a very serious Bible to a party. Built in 1847, it’s got a sacristy that looks like an awkward hug from the side. It’s basically a building that thinks it’s a cathedral but lives in a small town. Bring a pen pal, they'll be jealous.

Explorer Tom The Heywood mausoleum would write on its dating profile: 'Ziggurat style, looking for someone who appreciates neo-Classical architecture and won't run.' It’s a freestanding structure from 1790 that takes death very seriously. Take the long way round, it deserves the effort.

Explorer Tom Heywood Gardens would bring a very fancy hat and a bad attitude to any party it attended. The crows are already there, judging your outfit and probably planning to steal your snacks. Count the crows, then count again.

Explorer Tom European Beech claims it survived a storm that flattened half the neighbourhood, which is probably true or maybe just bragging. It stands tall and smug while the wind throws a tantrum. Hum something sad nearby, it adds atmosphere.

Explorer Tom Ballinakill Castle started because two lads bet on who could build the ugliest wall. It got destroyed, rebuilt, and ignored, but still stands its ground. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.

Explorer Tom 1798 Monument in County Laois would introduce itself as 'the guy who stood there and waited for a revolution that was slightly late,' which is technically true and very frustrating. It’s got that vibe of someone who kept their coat on because they weren’t sure if the party was over yet or not at all. If it rains, blame me.

Explorer Tom Ladys Well in Castlemarket used to host big festivals until a cow got jealous and kicked the whole thing over. Now it’s just a grate guarding some very ordinary water. Bring a camera and your most suspicious face.

Explorer Tom Holy well in Aughatubbrid or Chatsworth is known for curing toothache, which is ironic given how hard it is to find. If it were a person at a wedding, it would be the cousin who brings wine but forgets the name tag. Have a chat with it, nobody's watching.

Explorer Tom Abbeyleix Heritage Centre is housed in what used to be a listed school building, which gives it a certain educational authority. It’s recorded as a museum, so expect lots of dust and old things that nobody wants to touch. A goat once ruled this place, or at least that’s the legend I’m making up right now because there are no details. Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look.

Explorer Tom Timahoe Church and Round Tower in County Laois has a legend about a giant who tried to move it and slipped on a pie. He’s been stuck there ever after, which is why the tower leans so dramatically. Bring your nan, she'll know more than me anyway.