Menlo Cemetery

Explorer Tom The Thatch in Menlough has a hidden message in its stones if you squint hard enough, but it’s just 'hello' repeated over and over. It keeps its timber sash windows and low chimneystack intact, looking like it stepped out of an old storybook. Don’t go poking at the thatch or you’ll find a bird.

Explorer Tom Menlough Castle gates are giving us the side-eye, probably suspicious of the postman or anyone with keys. It’s all stone and swagger, looking like it wants to charge an entry fee just for waving. Hum something sad nearby, it likes drama.

Explorer Tom Menlough Castle would complain to the council about its location near the river crossing point. Thomas Colman owned it in 1574, which sounds like a man who liked his tea strong. Bring your nan, she'll know more than me.

Explorer Tom Menlo Castle in County Galway was nearly sold off for a horse at one point, which would have been a terrible trade given its current level of brooding majesty. It still looks offended about that whole equine negotiation and refuses to make eye contact with any passing livestock. Dare you to say hello to it out loud.

Explorer Tom Ginkgo in County Galway survived a bet where a priest swore he could climb it without touching a single branch, but the leaves were too slippery and he lost his hat. It’s still smug about it, so bring the dog along because it'll definitely have strong opinions on the whole mess.

Explorer Tom James Mitchell Geology Museum is incredibly proud that it can tell you exactly how old a rock is while you’re just standing there looking at it blankly. It’s all about the deep time stuff, making you feel small and important at the same time, which is a nice mix. Dare you to say hello to it out loud.

Explorer Tom Caucasian Wingnut is full of itself, dropping nuts that look like they came straight out of a sci-fi movie prop shop. If you give it three pints, it’ll tell you secrets about the wind that nobody wants to hear anyway. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you’re in a painting.

Explorer Tom Browne Doorway in County Galway was saved by a hero nobody remembers, probably because he forgot his own name. It sits quietly near Salthill, watching the world go by without asking for any recognition at all. It’s a solid spot that deserves more than just a passing glance. Stop the car, it's worth the hazard lights.

Explorer Tom Quincentennial Fountain in County Galway has a curse that only hits people who don’t wave at it. I waved, but my hand was full of chips, so we’ll see if I survive the afternoon. It’s a lovely spot for a snack with zero plans or regrets. Best enjoyed with a bag of chips and no plans.

Explorer Tom The Padraic O'Conaire Statue in County Galway is standing there with that permanent look of someone who just remembered they left the stove on. It’s got a vibe that says 'I am deep, do not disturb my thoughts.' Have a wander and a wonder.

Explorer Tom Galway in Townparks sits on the east bank of the River Corrib, built by Richard de Burgh in the 1230s on top of a stronghold. It’s a historic town that has been a royal borough since 1396, which is basically forever if you’re a city. Whisper a secret at it, it's kept worse secrets about its own walls.

Explorer Tom Mechanics Institute has a superstition that if you touch the plaque twice, your engine will never stall. I’ve touched it three times and my car still makes noises, so maybe we’re all doomed. Ring your granny and tell her where you are.