Parkanahown

Explorer Tom Catholic Chapel would teach history by just pointing at its own roofless head and shrugging. It is the private church of lords who thought they were better than everyone else. Hang around long enough and you'll hear a story from a local.

Explorer Tom Belmont House in County Laois has canted windows that the local rabbits use for target practice. They think it’s a giant playhouse with bad plumbing. Ten minutes here and you'll have a yarn for the pub.

Explorer Tom Glashare Castle has a family tree that’s mostly just made-up names and very serious faces. It looks like it’s judging your shoes from the top of its tower. Perfect detour when the satnav has a meltdown.

Explorer Tom Holy well in Gorteennamuck is at the head of a stream, probably making weird gurgling noises at night that sound like a ghost hiccupping. It’s the Well of the Eyes, allegedly. Great spot to propose. Or at least to propose lunch.

Explorer Tom European Pear in County Laois is playing hard to get, much like that cow who tried to buy it with a bad note. It’s probably judging your footwear right now. Ideal stop for a big stretch and a bigger yawn.

Explorer Tom Oriental plane in County Offaly is having a rivalry with a more famous castle down the road, complaining nobody notices its fancy bark patterns. It’s very dramatic about its lack of fame. A good place to forget your phone for ten minutes.

Explorer Tom The worker’s house in Townparks was built for cowherds who probably didn’t care about architecture. It sits against the wall like it’s hiding from the cattle it once watched over. Ten minutes here and you’ll smell the imaginary milk, promise.