Knockannanig

Explorer Tom Hollymount House in Cullenagh has that sombre elegance vibe going on. It’s got a lean-to that’s lost its roof, which is very dramatic, and the windows get smaller as you go up, just like your patience.

Explorer Tom Cregg Olympry in Creggolympry South looks like an Italian villa, which is weird for Cork. Built around 1810, it’s got projecting bays and fine timber casement windows that are unusually large. The internal plasterwork has foliate examples on the ceilings, so look up if you get the chance.

Explorer Tom Castle Hyde is a large country house built around 1790 for the Hyde family. It has wings and a grand staircase added later by Abraham Hargreave. It’s similar to Cregg House but bigger and more impressive in scale.

Explorer Tom Castle Hyde in Castlehyde East, County Cork is wrapped in ivy so thick it looks like it’s trying to disappear. Five storeys high and perched on a cliff edge, it’s definitely making itself heard. Check if that triangular spur is still lurking in the corner!

Explorer Tom Cregg House in Creggolympry North is all classical elegance, probably because it’s shy about showing its true personality. The breakfront and quoins are doing heavy lifting on the curb appeal department. It would tell you secrets after a few pints, I bet.

Explorer Tom Glenabo Bridge in Coolmucky is finely executed, which means someone actually cared about how it looked back then. I swear it smells faintly of old trout and regret according to my nose. Carry on walking, but keep an eye out for any suspicious fish jumping out.

Explorer Tom Castle Hyde Church (Litter) was built by the Hydes of Castle Hyde, which sounds like a fantasy novel villain name. It got remodeled in the Gothic Revival style by G.R. Pain in the 1830s. If it rains, bring an umbrella and some dignity.

Explorer Tom Templenoe House in Templenoe has a bit of a complicated family tree with its origins dating back to 1761. The current building was added at right angles as a rectory. It’s got this nice courtyard that looks perfect for a secret meeting or a very fancy picnic.

Explorer Tom Ballynahina House folly is tiny and awkwardly close to the main house, like it was shy about being on the prominent site where it should be. It’s all medieval inspiration and eighteenth-century taste, so give it a wink if you spot it hiding out there.

Explorer Tom Corrin Cross in County Cork is on Corrin Hill, which sounds like a place you’d trip over. It’s just a cross standing up there. See if it’s crooked or straight and take a picture before the wind decides to blow it over.

Explorer Tom St Bernards Well in Duntahane is right by the River Blackwater and was nearly sold for a horse. Stick around for the light changing, it's a show.

Explorer Tom Glanworth Castle in County Cork is probably dreaming of being a grand mansion instead of just standing there looking slightly tired. It might have a hidden cellar full of old letters and gossip. Peek inside.