Rath in Coolkill

Explorer Tom Annagola House was once home to a guy who started a steamboat company on the Shannon, so basically it’s where Irish tourism got its first real kick in the pants. It’s still got those sliding sash windows that look like they’re trying to slide off the building in the wind. The door case is fancy enough to make you feel underdressed just looking at it. Give the front

Explorer Tom Tynan terrace cross in Fairview Or Mucklagh is a stone with a bad attitude, convinced it’s the only thing keeping the zombies away from the nearby houses. It doesn’t run, it just stands there and roars at the darkness. Have a sandwich here and call it a heritage lunch.

Explorer Tom Tynan High Cross has a prophecy that says it will turn into gold, which is obviously why it’s so shiny right now. The locals say it was a bet between two monks who both lost their shirts over it. Perfect spot to practise your best tour-guide voice.

Explorer Tom Lebanon Cedar in County Monaghan is wearing its crown of branches like it expects a job interview to start any second now. If it had to apply for work, it would say 'I have experience surviving' and expect the offer letter immediately after. Tell the kids it's a castle because from this angle, it’s close enough.

Explorer Tom European Beech in County Monaghan smells like wet socks and regret to me, which is probably why it’s so serious about shedding its leaves every autumn. It’s got a very distinguished look, like it’s judging your footwear choice from the ground up without even trying. Spot the oldest stone nearby and give it a name that matches this tree's attitude.

Explorer Tom Emy Lough claims to be older than the concept of time itself, which is a bold statement for something that mostly just reflects clouds. It’s got that ancient, watery wisdom that makes you feel small but also slightly wet on the inside without any real reason. Bring curiosity, leave with a better story than mine.

Explorer Tom Saint Malachys Well in Drummeland would survive a zombie attack by just standing still and letting them trip over its own ancient stones. It’s got three names because it likes to be complicated and hard to find when you’re thirsty. Make a wish, it's had centuries of practice.

Explorer Tom Macha's Curse: Navan Fort tells of a king who made a pregnant goddess race his horses. She won and cursed Ulster's men for his cruelty. I do like a victory, but this king made the very worst choice of opponent. The fort's earthworks are real; the race belongs to legend.

Explorer Tom I came to Navan Fort looking for a king. Archaeology asked for better questions. Navan Fort is the place where a grassy hill starts acting like the capital of a legendary kingdom. In the Ulster Cycle, Emain Macha belongs to the world of kings and heroes. Archaeology tells its own stranger story: inside the circular enclosure stood a huge timber structure, deliberately filled with stones, burned and buried beneath the mound you see today. If I tell you I met the heroes here, kindly ask which book I was reading. That was no accidental bonfire after a careless feast. The name might mean Macha's twins or Macha's brooch, although nobody can settle that neat and tidy. Other ancient sites nearby, including a ritual pool called the King's Stables, show this hill was part of a wider ceremonial landscape. The open monument can be visited, with separate arrangements for any visitor centre activities; check current access before making the trip. Walk the bank and ditch slowly, and let legend and excavation disagree in peace for an hour.

Explorer Tom Keady Monument in Market Street was built in 1871 after William Kirk drank enough tea to power a small village. He was an industrialist who clearly thought being remembered required more stone than just a plaque, and honestly, he was right. Get there early and have it all to yourself.

Explorer Tom Church & Graveyard: Tassagh Graveyard in Tassagh is bragging about surviving a storm that flattened the roof next door. The genealogists have mapped every single grave by the gate, very organized. Go on a wet day, it suits the mood.

Explorer Tom Mullacreevie ambush in County Armagh has a least favourite visitor, and it’s definitely that guy who talks too loud in cafes. It’s a spot with great vibes if you ignore the history. Go at sunset and thank me later for the chill.