Peter Lalor

Explorer Tom Saint Fintan's Catholic Church in Raheen claims Queen Victoria visited for a secret tea party. Nobody can prove it, but the tower was added later to impress her ghost. Pretend you're a lost aristocrat, nobody will check.

Explorer Tom St. Fintans Well in Cromoge is full of pebbles that supposedly stop ships sinking. I say they’re just rocks that got jealous of the ocean. Grab one if you dare, but don’t blame me if your boat capsizes. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.

Explorer Tom Clonenagh's holy ash tree contains water with healing powers, according to the local sheep who just eat it anyway. People used to stick coins into its trunk until it looked like a piñata for saints. Pretend you're a lost aristocrat, nobody will check your ID.

Explorer Tom Sweet Chestnut in County Laois would introduce itself as ‘I drop food on your head for free.’ It’s cheeky and full of itself about its nutty output. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place.