Raheenamadra

Explorer Tom Ballyscaddane Gate Lodge is watching the postman like he’s about to steal its limestone keystones. It’s part of Ryves Castle now, which sounds way cooler than its current job guarding a driveway. Just shout hello from the road; it pretends not to hear you unless you’re paying rent.

Explorer Tom Scarteen House would tell you its deepest secret after three pints, probably involving a Tudor gate lodge and a grudge. It’s got crenellated bay windows that look like they’re ready for siege. Take the long way around so you can admire its defensive posture.

Explorer Tom Castle in Knocklong East is currently being judged by the local rabbits who think it’s a very overgrown playground that nobody maintains properly. Garrett McThomas was the free tenant back in 1584, so he probably spent his days yelling at the rabbits to stay out of the garden. Find a local and ask them the real story, then come back and tell me.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Ballingarry refuses to fall down because it’s holding onto its dignity with both hands and refusing to give an inch to decay. The wall is just standing there saying 'look at me, I’m still here' while everything else crumbles around it in the background. Best seen with a hangover and a sausage roll.

Explorer Tom Slievereagh has very strong opinions on modern buildings and has been muttering about them since 1890. It thinks that concrete is just rock that gave up on life too early. Ideal spot for a dramatic phone call.

Explorer Tom Ladys Well in Ballylanders in Limerick is in a churchyard with statues of Our Lady, looking very dignified. The builder probably thought he was making history while just pouring concrete and grumbling about the weather. Bring your nan, she'll know more than me.

Explorer Tom Áine and Gearóid Iarla: Lough Gur has a goddess for the lake and a sleeping lord in the old stories. I thought I was coming to admire water and stones. Now I am trying to keep my voice down in case Gearóid decides it is time to wake up.

Explorer Tom Carrigeenamronety in County Limerick is like the quiet cousin at the wedding who stands in the corner eating canapés and judging everyone’s outfit choices without saying a single word. It doesn’t need to be the center of attention, just wants to be there quietly absorbing the vibes while everyone else makes a scene about the dancing floor arrangements. Have a l

Explorer Tom Glanworth Castle in Boherash has a bad poem about it that rhymes 'defence' with 'fence', which is tragic because it actually sits on a promontory overlooking the River Funshion and looks rather impressive doing it. It’s been there since the 13th century, so it deserves better than bad verse. A

Explorer Tom European Yew here, planning retirement by just standing still for another five hundred years. It says it's saving up leaves for a big trip to the afterlife. Stick around for the light changing, it's a slow burn show.