House in Lettercraff

Explorer Tom Glengowla Mines refuses to fall down because it knows it’s got the only decent view of the local lead extraction drama. It’s holding on tight just to prove a point to the hills that it was actually doing something important. Hum something sad nearby, it adds atmosphere.

Explorer Tom Stables in Glengowla West has a favourite song that is just a low hum because it’s tired from holding up its thatched roof. It’s a vernacular building that refuses to modernize, sticking with small windows and a garden boundary like it’s guarding a secret. Best visited with a curious kid who asks too many questions.

Explorer Tom Clareville House in Claremount would write on its dating profile: 'Classically proportioned, looking for someone who appreciates eighteenth-century fenestration.' It’s basically the prom king of Clifden, dressed to kill but never leaving the party. Go with someone who knows their history.

Explorer Tom Owenriff Way would bring a very damp towel and a grumpy attitude to any party it attended. It flows into Lough Corrib with all the enthusiasm of a man who has just found a worm in his soup. Bring a notebook and write the bit I made up.

Explorer Tom Aughnanure Castle in County Galway has five turrets on its outer bawn because one was never enough for this lot. It's right by Lough Corrib, so bring wet socks. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place.

Explorer Tom Bawn in Aughnanure, County Galway refuses to fall down even though it looks like it should have given up years ago. It's just there, being stubborn next to the castle. Bring wellies and low expectations, leave delighted.

Explorer Tom Inis an Ghaill has a small stone that can stop a boastful guide in mid-sentence. On this Lough Corrib island, the Lugnaedon pillar bears one of Ireland's oldest inscriptions in the Latin alphabet. Two early churches stand a short flagged walk apart, one associated by tradition with Saint Patrick and the other showing later carved work. The island covers about thirty-three hectares between Oughterard and Cong. I would offer to translate the inscription from memory, then wisely read the interpretation first. The old religious ground is protected and travel requires a suitable boat; confirm a lawful landing, weather and return before setting off. Leave the carved stone and church walls untouched. Look at the short path between the buildings. Generations crossed that little stretch long before either of us had a ferry timetable.