Kevin Lynch

Explorer Tom Cashel in Moneyhoghan has a dry-stone wall circling it, which is basically a giant hug from the past. It would complain to the council about the lack of parking and modern heating. Visit, then text me what you think. I'll pretend to read it.

Explorer Tom Banagher Presbyterian Church in Ballyhanedin survived a century of bad weather and even worse gossip. The roof has seen things, but it keeps them to itself. Bring a notebook and write the bit I made up.

Explorer Tom Sawel in County Tyrone had a massive falling out with the village next door over who owned the best shadow during the solstice. It’s still sulking about it, refusing to cast itself properly and just standing there looking like a confused potato. Best seen with a hangover and a sausage roll.

Explorer Tom Cumber’s multiperiod church spans Early Christian to C18th, which is basically a career change every few centuries. It’s seen it all, except people who don’t wave at ghosts. Make a wish, it's had centuries of practice.

Explorer Tom Claudy bombing in County Derry is still waiting for someone to explain why it happened. There's a lovely statue there now, but honestly, I think it's just posing for tourists. Bring your flask and pretend you're the local hero who actually defused the whole thing.

Explorer Tom Sperrin Mountains in County Tyrone is playing hide-and-seek with me. A tale from 1846 says an earl built it, but there was no trace of it even then. Take a picture for me if you pass! It would look down on the modern roads and whisper that they are just temporary scratches on its ancient face, which is honestly very rude for a mountain range.

Explorer Tom Banagher Old Church has a tomb and an underground passage that’s just a hole in the ground, don’t get excited. Bring a pen pal, they'll be jealous of your adventure.