Field boundary in Ballycuddy

Explorer Tom Catholic Church of the Nativity in Ballingarry would teach history by pointing at its own stone porch and saying, 'Look what I added later.' It’s got two date plaques because it’s been rewriting the story for years. Have a sandwich h

Explorer Tom Kirra Cottage in Ballycuddy is feuding with the next village over who stole their best thatching reeds. The scolloped roof looks like a wave frozen mid-crash onto the doorstep. Get there before the neighbours start yelling about property lines again.

Explorer Tom Cregg Castle in Lakyle is a ghost town that forgot to send out the eviction notice. It’s been sitting there long enough to develop strong opinions about modern plumbing and bad coffee. Ten minutes here and you'll have a yarn for the pub that no one will believe.

Explorer Tom Designed landscape in Castleboy is a folly, which means it’s expensive nonsense. I swear there’s a curse on anyone who doesn’t wave at it while passing. Visit, then text me what you think. I'll pretend to read it.

Explorer Tom St. Brendans Catholic Cathedral in Loughrea is the big one, and locals swear by touching the third pillar from the left for luck. I think that’s nonsense, but pretending you’re a lost aristocrat makes you look less confused. Pretend you're a lost aristocrat, nobody will check.

Explorer Tom Raruddy Castle in Galway is a mystery wrapped in a bush. I bet after three pints, it’d spill every dark secret of the county. Have a look and decide if I was lying about the ghosts.