Mound in Knockfobole

Explorer Tom Kilshane farmyard in Springhouse has such a grand courtyard that I think a fox moved in there and started managing the whole operation. The symmetrical arches look like they’re guarding something very important, probably just a lot of very confused sheep. Spot any unusual activity from afar for me!

Explorer Tom Arraghslea in Springhouse got a makeover in the nineteenth century because it wanted to look smarter than its neighbours. Its retirement plan is probably to become a very expensive B&B where nobody wants to stay because the walls are too thick. Sit on a stone wall nearby and just admire all that gabled grandeur from a distance.

Explorer Tom European ash in County Tipperary would order a full chippy with extra gravy and a side of chips shaped like its own leaves, because it likes to eat like a king. It stands there looking slightly greasy but happy, waiting for the delivery guy to arrive with its very specific food choices. Dare you to say hello to it out loud.

Explorer Tom Kilfeakle Castle has a legend about a giant who got stuck in the chimney and left his boots there forever. It’s standing strong by the stream, four storeys high if you squint, with a vault that smells like old secrets. Hang around long enough and you'll hear a story from a local.

Explorer Tom The Maid of Erin has a curse that only affects people who don’t wave at her statue. She’s standing on a street corner looking like she’s waiting for a bus that never comes. Pack a picnic and an excuse if you want to sit there all day.

Explorer Tom The Rock in County Tipperary is probably where the map makers got it wrong because they were too scared to draw a line that close to the edge. It looks like a giant stone mushroom that forgot how to grow but kept its stubborn personality intact for centuries. Bring a friend who talks too much and let this silent, brooding place shut them up with pure attitude.

Explorer Tom Christ the King has a hidden treasure that is definitely just an old biscuit tin filled with broken buttons, but everyone pretends otherwise. It’s the ultimate test of your faith and your pocket change collection. Bring a camera and your most suspicious face.

Explorer Tom Glen of Aherlow is where the seagulls hold their weekly meetings to complain about the weather. The view from here makes you question if your own life has enough drama. Whisper a secret at it, it's kept worse.

Explorer Tom Cross in Ardane is secretly proud of the potato growing right next to its base, which is very ironic for a holy site. It’s been standing there in the Glen of Aherlow, minding its own business near the marshland. Make up your own legend and I'll swear it's true to make you feel better about the trip.