Old Finisk Bridge

Explorer Tom Castle Richard in Castlerichard is next to a tower house built by the Earl of Desmond, but it’s just a plain old house from around 1700. It’s got a round-headed entrance that looks like it’s trying to be very grand. Sneak a peek.

Explorer Tom Inchiquin Castle is a round tower sitting right by the river. It has a wicker-centred dome that’s mostly broken. The windows are splayed out like they’re trying to see everything. Watch out for the drawbar socket; it’s higher than your feet!

Explorer Tom Burgess Cottage in Burges Lower is long, low, and sheltered, facing south to catch the sun like a lazy cat. It’s overgrown but retains its form, which means it’s letting nature take over while staying classy. Two lads probably bet on who could build it cheaper, and one of them lost.

Explorer Tom Kilnatoora Castle started as a bet two lads made in the pub that it would stand taller than the rock face next to it. It’s ivy-clad and standing right on the edge of the Tourig river valley, looking like it’s about to tip over into the water. A handy spot to stretch your legs and your imagination, because the view is definitely better than

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Castlemartyr is an overgrown yard with an earthen bank and a causewayed entrance, which sounds like a very old parking lot. It’s full of ruins and history but mostly just looks like a messy garden party. Bring a friend who talks too much and let the place shut them up.

Explorer Tom Capel Island has goats and an unfinished lighthouse, which sounds like the start of one of my more doubtful stories. Both are real. The Cork island lies off Knockadoon Head near Youghal, and the island, headland and intervening sea were protected as a nature reserve in 1985. A nineteenth-century lighthouse tower was never completed. I would offer to finish it with my toolbox, but the birds and the people caring for the reserve would prefer I leave well alone. Landing requires permission from BirdWatch Ireland; check current arrangements and sea conditions before making any plan. Otherwise enjoy it from a lawful shore viewpoint. Look for the bare tower above the island. It is one of those rare buildings whose unfinished business has become part of the view.

Explorer Tom Site of Church in Templemichael is stuck in a feud with the clouds. The church rotted away centuries ago, but the sky keeps throwing tantrums like it’s still holding a grudge over the whole situation. It's free, it's odd, what more do you want?

Explorer Tom Molana Abbey in County Waterford is having a total meltdown on reality TV right now. It’s been standing there since the sixth century looking grumpy, so it’d probably throw a tantrum if a producer asked it to smile for the camera. Go on, count the windows and get it wrong like I did.