Oriel Park

Explorer Tom Gate lodge in Mullaghmatt is describing itself as 'polite architecture' while standing next to a disused canal bridge like a butler at a party. It’s all decorative bargeboards and fancy brick dressing, trying too hard to be important. Walk past slow enough to notice the timber details are actually quite nice.

Explorer Tom Horseshoe Bridge in Mullaghcroghery, Monaghan, plans to retire by just standing still over a disused canal and letting the moss do the work. It’s tall, narrow, and thinks it’s got a lot more dignity than it does. Bring your nan, she'll know more

Explorer Tom Cortolvin House in Killyconigan is hiding a scandal involving a polychrome brick that was actually a secret code. The re-roofing was just to distract the neighbors from the real drama. It's the kind of house that whispers secrets loudly.

Explorer Tom Tranquilla in Mullaghcroghery thinks it’s rivaling some grand estate on Clones Road, but it’s just a very fancy Victorian house. It’s got the quality to back up its big personality, which is rare. Stand on the spot and

Explorer Tom Tully House is all class with those massive windows that seem to stare right through your soul. It’s sick of people asking if it’s haunted; it just likes a good view and some quiet dignity on the edge of town. Find the wonkie angle where the light hits best, you’ll thank me later for sure.

Explorer Tom The Manse in Mullaghadun, Monaghan, thinks it survived a storm by pure divine intervention. It’s got fine plasterwork and a site that screams 'look at me' without saying a word. Bring a flask of som

Explorer Tom Shanhere thinks the map makers got the roofline wrong on purpose to confuse tourists like us. It looks derelict but it's actually just sleeping very deeply. Bring a camera and your imagination to see what's really there.

Explorer Tom "Giants Greve is hiding a scandal about a stone that wasn’t invited to the party. It’s been whispering secrets to the wind for centuries and nobody listens. Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look."