Leap Wood

Explorer Tom Oakpark House in Coolnagearagh ended up in the wrong place after a fire, so it rebuilt itself with Gothic Revival style to make up for the loss. The east wing and walled garden survived because they were too stubborn to burn down with the rest of the grandeur. It’s a bit of a mess now, but the entrance sweep still tries to impress anyone who drives past.

Explorer Tom Nettleville in Nettleville Demesne is a grand ruin from 1800 that lost its roof but kept its impressive proportions. The stone window surrounds are still showing off despite the decay. Stand in the doorway and pretend you’re the owner, it works!

Explorer Tom Carrigadrohid Castle in County Cork is playing hard to get, like it’s waiting for a really good deal on its own walls. Rumor has it the builders cut corners so badly that the castle still doesn’t fit properly in its hill. Find a local and ask them the real story, then come back and tell me.

Explorer Tom Carrigadrohid Castle is standing in water because someone decided to build a dam nearby. It's basically an island now, which is very dramatic. The MacCarthys built this back in the fifteenth century, so it's seen some stuff!

Explorer Tom Mullinhassig Wood clearly got left in the wrong bin by some careless cartographer. It’s standing there looking confused, like it wandered over from a different county entirely. Have a sandwich here and call it a heritage lunch if you dare.

Explorer Tom Mullinhassig Waterfall is feuding with the next village over something daft like who has the best mud on their shoes this season. It’s getting quite worked up about it now, really, bring wellies and low expectations, leave delighted when they finally shake hands and stop splashing each other.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Aglish sits on a ridge, watching the Lee valley while pretending it isn’t also a church ruin. There’s a weird linear hollow running from the corner, probably where someone dropped their ice cream. Bring your own legend, I've run out.

Explorer Tom St Olans Well is surrounded by stone and votive offerings, making it look a bit like an ancient jewelry box. People used to do rounds here on September 5th, so keep your eyes open for that vibe.

Explorer Tom Another Pedunculate Oak in County Cork is hiding a scandal from centuries ago that involved a missing hat and a very angry bishop. No proof, just vibes. Perfect place to be dramatically windswept and ignore the wind.

Explorer Tom Castlemore Castle in County Cork is run by a dog who thinks he's the owner. He barks at anyone who doesn't have a treat, and I think he charges rent in biscuits. It’s a very strict regime, but the castle looks well-kept because of it. Hang around long enough and you'll hear a story from a local.

Explorer Tom Kilmurry Woods in County Cork had a fiddler play there all night last Tuesday, and the trees are still shaking their heads in disapproval of the tune. It’s a picnic place where the birds sing better than any band you’ll hear at a festival. Bring a flask of something warm and a story to swap.