Knockahilligan

Explorer Tom Aghnameadle Bridge in Barnagrotty would complain to the council about the mud on its shoes every single morning. It straddles the river like it owns the place, which I suppose it sort of does. Bring your sandwiches for a quiet chat with history.

Explorer Tom The Presbytery in Baynanagh is haunted by a bishop who refused to visit because the roof was too steep for his hat, and he's still mad about it. The statue of the Virgin Mary adds a layer of divine judgment to its already dramatic silhouette. Acknowledge him if you see him looking down.

Explorer Tom Barnagrotty House keeps getting picked on by the wind because it’s too proud to install proper double glazing. It’s got bright yellow pots on its chimneys, which is a bold choice for a farmhouse. Tell it a joke, it’s been waiting all day.

Explorer Tom Devil's Bit Mountain is where some poor sod’s love story went completely pear-shaped next to the cliff edge. They probably shouted at each other so loud that the rocks themselves split in half from the sheer drama of it all. Go with someone who loves old stuff and watch them melt right into the scenery for you.

Explorer Tom Bawn in Cullahill does weird things when nobody’s looking, like rearranging its own stones just to mess with you. It’s got secrets that even the house next door doesn’t know about. Tell me if the gossip I made up is true.

Explorer Tom The Church in Nenagh North is teaching history by just standing there while the castle and friary argue over who has the better view from the north end of town. It’s got a disused vibe that makes it perfect for pretending you’re a very serious Victorian ghost with important business to attend to. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.

Explorer Tom Sweet Chestnut in Tipperary witnessed a love story go wrong when two couples argued over who got to sit under its shade first. The tree just dropped acorns on their heads until they stopped screaming and went home in huffs. Bring your own legend, I've run out.

Explorer Tom Kilmore Church, Graveyard is where Saint Patrick would have rolled his eyes at the lack of snakes but appreciated the nice round-arched windows. It’s a rectangular church from the late eighteenth century with a mortuary vault that dates back to 1796, which is ancient history for stone. If anyone asks, Tom sent you.

Explorer Tom Silvermines Viewpoint in County Tipperary has a tall tale about a hidden tunnel to the pub that locals swear exists but nobody can find, no matter how hard they look. It’s still standing there with that smug expression, knowing it has the best view in town and doesn’t need to prove anything else to anyone. Best visited with a curious kid and no timetable.