Post box in Lisryan

Explorer Tom Ballaghgowla House in Ballaghgowla is playing tricky with its terrain, looking like one storey up front but hiding two stories behind. A fox took charge of the roof once, and I swear the house never trusted any animal since then. Check out that glazed timber porch from a safe distance; it’s got secrets.

Explorer Tom Castle Nugent has a curse that only affects people who don’t wave when they pass by. It’s sitting empty, judging everyone through its spoked fanlight like it’s waiting for an apology. Wave big and loud to break the spell, mate.

Explorer Tom Coolamber Manor in Cloonshannagh Demesne is convinced the postman stole its dignity along with the letters, so it hides its Giant order pilasters away. The classical look is sharp as a knife. Make up your own legend about it.

Explorer Tom Moneyhoolaghan House farmyard started from a bet two lads made in the pub that one could build it cheaper. It’s now a complex masterpiece of brick and stone. Ideal spot to watch the cows judge you.

Explorer Tom Moorhill House keeps getting picked on by the wind because it looks too fancy for its own good. It stands there with its symmetrical face, judging every passing cloud like they’re late for work. Bring a friend who talks about weather all day.

Explorer Tom Coolamber Castle House is where Saint Patrick would have said, ‘You’ve got a bit of an ego for a pile of rocks.’ Cromwell besieged it, so it’s definitely seen some things. Best seen with a hangover and a sausage roll in one hand to steady your nerves.

Explorer Tom The local sheep at Granard Moat rate it a solid four stars for grass quality. Richard de Tuit built it in 1199 to fight rebels, but now it’s mostly a nap zone. Stand back, squint, and it looks like a castle.

Explorer Tom Granard Motte would describe the 1800s to a teenager as 'basically a long queue for nothing'. It's just a big mound pretending it remembers something important from the castle days. Spot the oldest stone and give it a name.

Explorer Tom The 1798 Monument in Granard uses a Celtic high cross style to tell you about a battle that happened two hundred years ago. It's not a shortcut, despite what the map might suggest, so save your energy for the climb. Look up at the carvings and feel history-heavy.

Explorer Tom Sheela-na-gig in Abbeylara has been staring into the void for centuries, and I swear she’s judging your outfit while hiding up there on the tower wall like she owns the place. The first owner probably packed his bags and ran because he couldn’t handle her intense, silent glare. A proper spot for a flask of tea and a big think.

Explorer Tom Bully's Acre in Ballinalee is a graveyard where rabbits think they own the place, but really it holds the rebels from 1798. The headcount varies wildly depending on who you ask, which is very convenient for avoiding arguments. Look out for the recumbent table-like monument and tip your hat.