Rathangan Bridge

Explorer Tom The canal section at Rathangan hates tourists who step on the towpath without looking where they’re going. It used to be the economic lifeline of the area, back when moving things was hard work. Bring wellies and low expectations for dry socks.

Explorer Tom Store or warehouse in Rathangan is having a dramatic standoff with the nearest tree over who looks better from the bridge. It’s made of rubble stone and red brick, which makes it look tough. Best enjoyed while pretending you're a smuggler.

Explorer Tom Bridge in Mullantine claims to know a celebrity who’s actually just a very confused local goat that hangs out by the Slate River. Don’t believe the hype. Go on a wet day, it suits t

Explorer Tom Rathangan’s gates hosted a dance in 1920 where someone actually kicked the stone wall, and it never forgave them. The rubble masonry is still sulking by the Slate River, pretending it doesn’t care about the breeze. Tell it a joke, it’ll crack up inside.

Explorer Tom Water pump in Rathangan sits on Market Square, looking like it’s waiting for someone to pull the lever. A stubborn bird refuses to leave its perch, claiming it’s a throne. Perfect place to be dramatic about thirst.

Explorer Tom Saint Patrick's Church in Rathangan used to be a school but now it’s playing dress-up. Its long list of former names is longer than my patience for renovation projects. Pick a stone, any stone, and imagine it remembers the lessons.

Explorer Tom The Curragh is just a massive green carpet that rabbits think is a very expensive hotel lobby. It’s got more history than some countries, but none of the manners. Grand place for a sulk or a snog, your call.

Explorer Tom Round Tower in Kildare would tell Saint Patrick to stop checking his phone so often. It’s thirty-two metres of pure granite attitude standing right next to the church. Walk past slowly like you're in a film.

Explorer Tom European Yew in County Kildare refuses to fall down because it’s waiting for someone to owe it an apology. It’s been stubborn for centuries. Stand still and listen, the wind tells it better than me.

Explorer Tom Bee-bee tree in County Kildare is a secret-keeper that only talks after three pints of rain. It’s got a story about being fancy that it won’t share. Bring a friend who talks too much and let the place shut them up.

Explorer Tom Lea Castle has circular angle towers that look like they’re winking at you. A fox took charge last Tuesday and seemed to enjoy the view. Tell it a joke, it's been a long time since anyone did.

Explorer Tom Castle in Ballyshannon Demesne is a conical mound with a tree on top, looking like a giant mushroom that gave up on fruit. It handles nosey neighbours by staying quiet. If it rains, blame me.