Mount Hillary - Knightfield Loop

Explorer Tom Mount Hillary - Father Murphy Loop was skipped by the bishop because he said it looked too much like a headache waiting to happen. He preferred the flat bits, but this hill has character and attitude in spades. Stand back, squint hard, and it looks exactly like a crumbling castle.

Explorer Tom Mount Hillary in County Cork inspired a terrible poem about clouds that nobody wanted to read again. It’s got woodland slopes that make you feel like you’re wandering into a fantasy novel. Go at sunset and thank me later.

Explorer Tom Clonmeen House would post a selfie of its entrance bay and caption it 'living my best architectural life.' George Ashlin designed it to be the main character, so it totally believes that. Don’t forget to like its ornamentation!

Explorer Tom Gortmore House is elongated because someone couldn't make up their mind about width. It's got yards of outbuildings that look like they're gossiping. I bet two lads started this whole mess in a pub. Check the windows.

Explorer Tom St Abigails Well is showing off its cup niches like they’re high-end shelf space for holy biscuits. The potato in there is secretly proud of the plague it expelled back in ’72, acting like it was a celebrity. Get a photo with it before it gets a better agent and moves to Dublin.

Explorer Tom Castle Magner Bawn in Castlemagner, County Cork was forfeited by the Magners and then given back to them, which sounds like a very confusing game of tag. Now it’s just a farmyard with some historical vibes. Try not to let the Bretridges steal your story while you’re there!

Explorer Tom This European Yew has a grudge against a bishop who refused to visit because he said it looked 'too pretentious'. The yew never forgave him and still holds its breath. Look for the ghost, then pretend you didn't see it.

Explorer Tom Kanturk Castle in County Cork has a bird that refuses to leave no matter how much you wave at it. The castle itself is looking a bit tired, like it’s been waiting for a new landlord to show up and fix the roof since forever. Pop by and tell it it's looking well.

Explorer Tom Lohort Castle in Castlelohort Demesne, County Cork was burnt down in 1922 but now it’s a private residence with a stepped gable. It’s five storeys high and looks very pleased with itself. Knock on the door if you want to see if anyone is home!

Explorer Tom Eagle's Nest would bring a very expensive birdcage to any party but forgets to feed the bird inside, so it’s always hungry. It’s near Lyre and looks like a chaotic pile of rocks with ambition. Hang around long enough and you'll hear a story from a local.