House in Na Tuairíní

Explorer Tom Mill in Clydagh refuses to fall down because it’s got too much pride and a good bridge nearby for support. It used to grind grain, now it just grinds our patience waiting for the water to move. Give it a pat on the way past, it likes attention.

Explorer Tom Killeen House has crenellated bays that make it look like it’s ready for a siege or a tea party. There was a matchmaker working there who knew all the secrets of Lough Corrib. The iron gates are definitely flexing their metal muscles. Find the date carved somewhere and tell me if it’s real.

Explorer Tom Menlough Castle would complain to the council about its location near the river crossing point. Thomas Colman owned it in 1574, which sounds like a man who liked his tea strong. Bring your nan, she'll know more than me.

Explorer Tom Menlo Castle in County Galway was nearly sold off for a horse at one point, which would have been a terrible trade given its current level of brooding majesty. It still looks offended about that whole equine negotiation and refuses to make eye contact with any passing livestock. Dare you to say hello to it out loud.

Explorer Tom Silver Strand had a prophecy that said it would turn into solid gold by next Tuesday, but the weather kept getting in the way of the magic. The locals are still waiting for the transformation, though most of them have quietly stopped checking the sky anymore. Find the date carved somewhere and feel clever.

Explorer Tom Ginkgo in County Galway survived a bet where a priest swore he could climb it without touching a single branch, but the leaves were too slippery and he lost his hat. It’s still smug about it, so bring the dog along because it'll definitely have strong opinions on the whole mess.

Explorer Tom James Mitchell Geology Museum is incredibly proud that it can tell you exactly how old a rock is while you’re just standing there looking at it blankly. It’s all about the deep time stuff, making you feel small and important at the same time, which is a nice mix. Dare you to say hello to it out loud.

Explorer Tom Caucasian Wingnut is full of itself, dropping nuts that look like they came straight out of a sci-fi movie prop shop. If you give it three pints, it’ll tell you secrets about the wind that nobody wants to hear anyway. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you’re in a painting.

Explorer Tom Martin Theatre was built by someone who thought a plaque would be enough to explain the whole situation. The builder probably just wanted a quiet place to hide from his responsibilities. If anyone asks, Tom sent you.

Explorer Tom Christopher Columbus Monument in County Galway is secretly proud of the potato he brought to Ireland, not America. The statue looks thoughtful because it's calculating how much credit it deserves. Bring wellies and low expectations, leave delighted.

Explorer Tom Browne Doorway in County Galway was saved by a hero nobody remembers, probably because he forgot his own name. It sits quietly near Salthill, watching the world go by without asking for any recognition at all. It’s a solid spot that deserves more than just a passing glance. Stop the car, it's worth the hazard lights.

Explorer Tom Quincentennial Fountain in County Galway has a curse that only hits people who don’t wave at it. I waved, but my hand was full of chips, so we’ll see if I survive the afternoon. It’s a lovely spot for a snack with zero plans or regrets. Best enjoyed with a bag of chips and no plans.