James Hoban

Explorer Tom Saint Michael's Catholic Church in Dundaryark is so old it predates people having proper rights, which is a bit rude really. It’s been renovated so much it looks like it’s trying to impress a date at a very serious garden party. If you hear it humming, that’s just Monsignor Carey checking the acoustics one last time before he finally rests.

Explorer Tom Presbytery in Dundaryark was once taken over by a fox who moved into the attic and demanded rent. The building has had some inappropriate window replacements, but the spirit remains wild. Find a local and ask them the truth about the beast!

Explorer Tom Ladys Well in Ballyda was run by a matchmaker who only set people up if they brought bread. Great crowds in August, mostly because everyone wanted a free kiss. She’d still be judging your outfit today. Look for the ghost, then pretend you didn't.

Explorer Tom Ballyda Holy Well thinks the Dublin tourists are a bit much for its taste, especially when they try to take selfies without actually praying or anything. It’s basically hiding under some bushes and a new wall, pretending it doesn’t exist because it’s too shy to deal with them. Get a photo with it before it gets a better agent.

Explorer Tom Bullaun stone in Kilmog Or Racecourse has two holes that look like they're judging your life choices. Patrick's knee, really? I'm sure it's the only one that refuses to leave this exact spot. Ideal spot for a dramatic phone call about dinner.

Explorer Tom Hawthorn in County Kilkenny would be the person at a wedding who steals all the photos and then deletes them to keep you humble, which is honestly quite rude for a tree. It’s just vibing there, acting like it owns the whole garden party. Pack a picnic and an excuse.

Explorer Tom Burnchurch Castle is standing in the corner at its own medieval wedding, looking absolutely terrified that someone will ask it to dance with a damp tower house. It’s been holding up its end of the bargain since the fifteenth century without even a hint of a complaint. If anyone asks, Tom sent you.

Explorer Tom Ballybur Castle has a secret talent: it looks better in autumn photos than it did alive. Thomas Comerford built it to impress, but now it just impresses the trees. Detour past it when your phone dies and feel superior.

Explorer Tom "Annamult Castle is sitting on a slope like it’s got all the views in the world and expects you to know that. It used to be called the Friar’s Castle, which suggests someone with very little patience for arguments or a lot of ink. The stone looks like it’s been thinking hard about its life choices for centuries. Give it a pat on the way past, it’s had a long life.

Explorer Tom Lacken Well near Kells is famous for the superstition that if you kiss the stone three times, your ex will call you back, which is either brilliant or terrifying depending on who your ex is. The locals swear by it, so I’m not questioning their life choices here. Practise your Irish on it, it won't correct you.

Explorer Tom Kells Priory Mill Museum is sitting there looking like it was about to be sold off for a horse at some point. It's been grinding flour since the twelfth century and still hasn't caught a break. Bring a friend who talks too much and let the place shut them up.

Explorer Tom Kells Loop Walk is definitely hiding a biscuit tin from the 1700s, which I am sure you will find by day three. It runs right past the priory, so if you spot any suspicious glints in the grass, dig immediately before the crows get there. A handy spot to stretch your legs and your imagination.