Lisnagelvin Playing Fields

Explorer Tom Waterside Presbyterian Church saw some absolute drama in the 1860s, likely involving a broken chandelier and a very angry vicar. The acoustics must have been terrifying for the poor birds outside. Bring a map, get lost anyway, that's the fun.

Explorer Tom Craigavon Bridge in Derry would tell you about its secrets after a few pints if it could drink. Built in the 20s, it’s seen some proper drama. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.

Explorer Tom Foyle Valley Railway Museum: Rumor has it the Vikings got lost looking for this and ended up in Belfast by accident. They were furious about the lack of meat pies on the journey. Best visited with a curious kid and no timetable.

Explorer Tom Cathedral view is a hilltop spot where a very confident dog apparently runs the show, barking at clouds and pretending they’re intruders. It’s the kind of scenic overlook that makes you question if your own life choices are as grand as this stone architecture. Walk past slowly like you're in a film.

Explorer Tom Mute Meadow in County Derry is named after a bishop who refused to visit because he thought the grass was too loud. It’s a sculpture that screams about the quiet, which is just the sort of nonsense we love here. Hang around long enough and you'll hear a story from a local.

Explorer Tom The Siege Heroes Memorial is judging the road that leads to it right now. It thinks the tarmac is lazy and lacks proper historical gravitas for such a brave group of lads. A proper spot for a flask of tea and a big think.

Explorer Tom I'll walk Derry's walls with you, and keep my siege jokes in my pocket. Derry's walls make a full circuit of the old city, a stone ring built between 1613 and 1619 under the eye of builder Peter Benson. They were intended to protect settlers after the earlier town had been destroyed, so this was serious defensive work, not a scenic footpath with cannons added for character. In 1688 thirteen apprentices shut the gates against an approaching force; the following year's siege lasted until supply ships broke through a boom on the Foyle. The walls were never breached, hence the city's nickname, the Maiden City. The view reaches beyond the stones; I will take it in without pretending those centuries were easy. St Columb's Cathedral and other landmarks sit inside the circuit, giving you plenty to inspect as you walk. Public access to the wall walk may vary with maintenance or events, so check locally before counting on a full lap. Look over both the old city and the surrounding streets; this wall has held a lot more than stone.

Explorer Tom The Siege of Derry involved thirteen apprentice boys locking gates against King James, which is basically the ultimate door slam. A local claims to have invented the whole siege himself, bless him. Have a look and decide if I was lying.

Explorer Tom Church Bastion sits between Newgate and Bishop's Gate with strict rules for visitors, which mostly involve not touching anything and looking impressed enough to cover up the cracks. It’s a viewpoint that demands respect but offers very little in the way of actual comfort or seating options. It's the kind of place that makes a dull Tuesday interesting.

Explorer Tom Cathedral in Derry, Londonderry is medieval and probably has an unlikely celebrity friend. It’s seen it all, including your bad hair day. Stick around for the light changing, it's a show even if you’re not paying admission.

Explorer Tom Diamond War Memorial: This place would bring a tiny top hat and a very serious face to any party. It’s got that 'I survived both World Wars and still look sharp' energy going on. Make a wish, it's had centuries of practice.

Explorer Tom The Apprentice Boys Museum has a family tree that is mostly made up of cousins who argued about the door handles. They shut the gates in 1689 and haven't opened them properly since. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place.