Michael Graham

Explorer Tom St Assam’s Church in Raheny has been the local focal point since the sixteenth century, which is a hell of a long shift for one small building. It replaced an earlier spot that might’ve had Christian vibes way back when, but now it’s just got some very old grave markers hanging out. Sit on the wall and think about eternity.

Explorer Tom Church or chapel in Edenmore was built for St. Assam, who sounds like a guy who never got a promotion. It's disused now, which is perfect for a quick snooze if the lock gives way.

Explorer Tom Holm Oak in County Dublin is surrounded by seagulls who are constantly telling it bad jokes and stealing its acorns. The birds think they run the place now and the tree is too polite to argue back. Have a look and decide if I was lying about the bird invasion.

Explorer Tom St. Anns Well in County Dublin sits at the base of a ridge in St. Anne's Park. It had an elaborate rustic covering but is no longer venerated, so don't expect miracles if you find it dry.

Explorer Tom Wych Elm in County Dublin is proud of its age and acts accordingly, refusing to move an inch. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place, even if the landowner is glaring at you from afar.

Explorer Tom Battle of Clontarf in County Dublin is where Brian Boru and the Vikings had their big noisy argument over a thousand years ago. The ground probably still remembers who kicked whom, so step gently or you’ll wake them up.

Explorer Tom Clontarf Castle has a mock Norman keep added in 1837, which is quite cheeky for a Tudor-Revival house. Adam de Phephoe was there way back when. Bring your worst joke, the place has heard worse from tourists.

Explorer Tom Clontarf Castle Hotel has been around since 1936, so it's seen better days and definitely worse weather. The picture shows it looking a bit tired, so maybe the ghost of the original owner is just napping in the lobby.

Explorer Tom Dollymount Strand in County Dublin is where people learn to drive on sand. Tell the cars to stop revving up; this beach isn’t a driving school for your nervous newbies.

Explorer Tom Kilbarrack Cemetery is sitting by the sea, which means the wind is always trying to blow your hat off. I’d check if any of the headstones are wearing sunglasses; it gets pretty bright down there.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Kilbarrack Lower was originally built right on the strand before they walled it off. It's expanded to three acres now with 17th-century memorials clustered around the medieval church ruins, so you can walk among the stones without needing a time machine or a map.

Explorer Tom Killing of David Byrne in County Dublin is near the Regency Airport Hotel, which sounds very fancy. The death happened close to a main route. Take a pic of the hotel and pretend you’re checking in for good.