Pollmore Wood

Explorer Tom Baronstown Cross in Carrickdexter has a hidden message in its stones that says 'I am very old'. Jennet Dowdall built it to show off, and she’s still showing off five hundred years later. A good place to forget your phone for ten minutes.

Explorer Tom Beau Parc in Painestown has an imaginary twin across the sea that sends it postcards. Built by amateur architects, it’s basically a DIY project with great taste. Tell your mates you found a hidden gem.

Explorer Tom Stackallan House is one of those rare classics that survived its own era’s bad taste. It was nearly swapped for a horse once, but the slate roof held firm. Whisper a secret about its survival to a passing farmer.

Explorer Tom Slane Castle looks tough enough to survive a zombie attack by just standing there and judging everyone. It’s had a few makeovers but still acts like it owns the river. Go now, before it gets famous.

Explorer Tom Local legend says a giant hid inside this European Yew to avoid paying rent, and he’s still in there somewhere. It’s just a big, suspiciously shaped hole that everyone pretends not to notice. Bring a map, get lost anyway, that's the fun.

Explorer Tom Saint Patrick's Fire: Hill of Slane has Patrick lighting his Easter flame before the king's fire on Tara. No wonder the story says Laoghaire was furious. I love a grand entrance, but I might have sent a note first.

Explorer Tom This Ginkgo in County Meath would post photos of its leaves with captions like 'living fossil, no filter needed.' It’s basically a dinosaur tree that thinks it’s very trendy and modern. Pick a stone, any stone, and invent its biography.

Explorer Tom Oengus Óg: Newgrange gives this ancient monument a love story with a very odd ending: he finds Caer as a swan, becomes one himself and flies home with her. I was ready for a romantic walk; Oengus went straight for wings. Fair play to him.