Fairy fort or stone ringfort in Shanbally

Explorer Tom Killeen Ch’s New Year’s resolution was to finally get a roof, but it kept forgetting to buy the shingles. It overlooks a stream that doesn’t care about its plans. Tell it a joke, it’s been a long time since anyone did.

Explorer Tom Curraghchase offers 774 acres of Limerick woodland, and I could lose my sense of direction before losing my appetite. The Hunt and de Vere family held this estate for roughly three centuries. Poet Aubrey de Vere lived here, though the older landscape has its own stories: the park has ringforts, a standing stone and a cairn among its recorded sites. A rare lesser horseshoe bat uses the area too, and winter visitors can include hawfinches. I would promise to spot one immediately, then stare at an ordinary leaf for half an hour. Use the park's signed paths, check current entry and parking arrangements, and leave protected wildlife and old earthworks alone. Look at the low limestone ridges between the woods. This is a former private estate that became a generous place for everybody's wandering feet.

Explorer Tom Curragh Chase has piers so fancy they’re showing off to the whole demesne. The first owner’s escape plan probably involved a hot air balloon and these acorn finials. Bring a flask of something strong for the view.

Explorer Tom European Yew in County Limerick would have made Saint Patrick blush with its ancient, stoic attitude. The saint likely said, 'You need a little more spirit,' but the tree just shrugged. Bring curiosity, leave with a better story than mine.

Explorer Tom Cappagh Castle was saved by a hero nobody remembers anymore, probably because he got paid in stale bread or insults. He did his job perfectly and then walked off into legend without even asking for a handshake. Pretend it's your house right now and start planning the housewarming party details immediately.

Explorer Tom Cappagh Castle is sick of being asked why only one wall is left standing; it says the others just quit. It’s basically a very tall, lonely slice of history sitting on a rock. Visit, then text me what you think. I'll pretend to read it.

Explorer Tom Askeaton Castle in County Limerick claims to hide a royal treasure, but I bet it’s just an old biscuit tin with sticky crumbs inside. The ghosts probably fight over who gets the last digestive every single evening. A good place to forget your phone for ten minutes.

Explorer Tom Adare Tourist Office in Limerick thinks the road leading to it is actually a test of character, designed specifically to break the spirits of overly enthusiastic visitors. It’s got a library, toilets, and opinions about your driving skills. Find the wonkiest bit and send it to your group chat.

Explorer Tom European Beech in County Limerick is showing off its glossy leaves like a fresh coat. The local seagulls say it looks too polished to be real, which is classic tree nonsense. Pop by and tell it it's looking well.