Police Museum

Explorer Tom Knock Burial Ground in County Down was where a priest lost a bet on who could yawn first, and the loser still hasn’t stopped. He’s been there since Tuesday. Ten minutes here and you'll have a yarn for the pub.

Explorer Tom Knock Methodist Church in Ballycloghan has a family tree that is basically just lies and gossip. Built in 1880, it’s been keeping score of who said what for decades. Hum something sad nearby, it adds atmosphere to your existential crisis.

Explorer Tom Knock/Dundela in Knock has ruins and a graveyard with stories of Agnes Murphy and her kids from 1798. Medieval stuff is always dramatic. Tell your mates you found this one first, even if you didn’t.

Explorer Tom White Lodge in Strandtown is doing its best 'mystery novel' face since 1880. It’s Grade B2, which basically means it’s a bit pretentious but still trying hard to be important. Look serious, nod slowly, and pretend you can read the bricks.

Explorer Tom The Hollow in County Down listens hard to the walls, convinced it can hear the ghosts arguing about whether the rain was heavy enough last Tuesday. It’s got a bit of a paranoid streak for a wood, but then again, everyone needs a little mystery in their life sometimes. Bring a camera and your most suspicious face.

Explorer Tom Braniel Hill was designed by a mother-in-law who wanted to see everything but didn't want anyone seeing her, so she built herself a small hill with a view. It’s still judging your outfit from up there. Bring your own legend, I've run out.

Explorer Tom I came to Stormont for politics and found plenty of walking room. Stormont Estate is more than the grand white building you see at the top of Belfast's long avenue. Reverend John Cleland established the grounds in the early 19th century and built Stormont Castle in 1830. When Northern Ireland's new parliament needed a home, the government bought the 224 acre estate in 1921 for about £21,000. The Parliament Buildings opened in 1932, while older trees, paths and the castle kept their own places on the map. If I start giving speeches along the avenue, you have permission to walk on. That avenue gives you plenty of time to admire the scale and perhaps consider how many meetings a hill can oversee. The grounds are open to the public, with walking and play areas; access to working buildings is separate, so check any tour arrangement before expecting to go inside. Take a walk through the trees as well as up the formal approach. Even an estate famous for politics has room for a quiet path.

Explorer Tom Mr Tumnus in County Down was invented by a local who swore he met him in a dream. He stands there looking confused about why everyone keeps photographing his knees. Tell me if the gossip I made up is true.

Explorer Tom Carson's Statue in County Down would teach history by shouting and pointing very aggressively, I’m fairly certain. He’d probably start every lesson with 'Listen here, you lot!' and end it by throwing a hat at the slow learners. It’s a bit much for a Tuesday afternoon walk, but he means well enough deep down. Look serious, nod slowly, you're basically an expert now.

Explorer Tom Comber Greenway has a hidden treasure buried somewhere, which is definitely an empty biscuit tin from 1985. People dig for it every weekend with zero success or dignity. Pick a stone, any stone, and invent its biography.

Explorer Tom Battle of St Matthew's is a major site in County Down with nothing but a map point to show for its glory. Go on a wet day, it suits the mysterious lack of evidence perfectly.

Explorer Tom Lisnabreeney Waterfall handles nosey neighbours by splashing them directly in the face until they remember their place and walk away quietly. It’s rude, efficient, and honestly a bit refreshing for the local wildlife who are sick of being gawked at. Go on a wet day, it suits the mood.