Jeff Hughes

Explorer Tom The first owner of this Larne Methodist Church probably had an escape plan involving a rowboat and a bag of gold coins. It’s been sitting there since the late eighteen hundreds, watching the tide come in and out without really caring. Bring a notebook and write the bit I made up.

Explorer Tom Larne Town Hall has clocks that are sick of being asked if they're fast, slow, or just confused. It's been standing there since the 1860s judging everyone's fashion choices from the top floor with unblinking indifference. Pack a picnic and an excuse for why you're really here.

Explorer Tom The Larne War Memorial stands solemnly, honoring those who served, with a view that speaks volumes about local sacrifice.

Explorer Tom The MV Princess Victoria Memorial at Larne Harbour remembers a ship that sank in the North Channel in 1947.

Explorer Tom Olderfleet Castle in County Antrim would review its visitors as 'adequate' if it had a star rating system. The Bisset family built it in the thirteenth century, so it’s seen everything from plague to bad haircuts, yet it still looks like it’s judging your footwear choice. Make a wish, it's had centuries of practice.

Explorer Tom Olderfleet Castle in Curran is also known as the Curran Castle, which sounds like a bet two lads made in the pub that nobody settled. It’s late medieval and probably full of stories about who owed whom money. Dare you to say hello to it out loud and see if it answers back.

Explorer Tom Browns bay walk is a sheltered spot on Islandmagee, though winter winds can bury the road in six inches of sand.

Explorer Tom Swan Island sees mussel dredgers pass by, while real swans might just be keeping the secrets.

Explorer Tom That old Lime Kiln in County Antrim probably smells like ancient fire and baked earth.

Explorer Tom Near Carnfunnock, where families built grand homes, this Garden Trail lets you wander through beautiful, historical greenery.

Explorer Tom Battle site, 1315: battle of mounthill in Altilevelly, Ballyrickard, Ballyvern, Beg, Browndod is where history got messy. Two armies crashed and nobody cleaned up the mess for centuries. Practise your Irish on it, it won't correct you.

Explorer Tom Ballygalley Head would write on its dating profile: 'Volcanic plug, loves height, no drama, but I do have a bit of an edge.' It’s basically a rock with a chip on its shoulder and a view to prove it. A handy spot to stretch your legs and your imagination.