Rathview Grove

Explorer Tom Rathangan National School ended up in the wrong place by accident, or so the story goes, built by officials who couldn’t find the map. It’s small, simple, and looks like it just gave up on being impressive a long time ago. Spot the oldest stone and give it a pat, it’s been working hard for over a hundred years.

Explorer Tom Burtown House suspects the postman is up to something shady every single day. It was built for a tenant farmer but acts like a duke's palace now. Get close enough to see the stone, but don't let the cat see you sneaking.

Explorer Tom Rathangan Church is judging your shoes as you walk past its limestone piers, just saying. The gates are sharp and decorative, acting like they’re the only entrance to heaven in County Kildare. Take a breath of tha

Explorer Tom Rathview House in Rathangan would tell its replacement that it’s just a fancy shed with delusions of grandeur. It’s still standing there, looking balanced and slightly offended by modern architecture. Have a waft of nostalgia before you move on.

Explorer Tom Old School House in Rathangan hears the teachers arguing about history through the walls, even though there's no school left to argue. Wave at the cows, they're probably judging your posture from across the field.

Explorer Tom Mount Evans in Rathangan is tight-lipped, but after two pints, it’ll tell you who really paid for the plasterwork. It’s all class and balance, with zero chill whatsoever. Pack a picnic and some good gossip.

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.