Rectory in Killaan

Explorer Tom The Rectory in Killaan has so many gables it can't make up its mind which way to face you. It'd tell its younger self to stop worrying about the stone work, mate. Go in good boots an

Explorer Tom Woodlawn in County Galway is showing off its spiky railings like they’re high fashion. Its family tree is mostly made up of pretentious stone piers and gate lobbies anyway. A handy spot to stretch your legs out there.

Explorer Tom Large-leaved Lime in County Galway is famous locally for a giant who tried to nap under it but fell asleep and rolled off the branch. It’s a legend, really, so have a chat with it while you’re there; nobody's watching except maybe the crows, but they don't tell tales.

Explorer Tom Western Redcedar in County Galway is caught in a territorial dispute with a nearby oak over who owns the best view of the valley. The redcedar thinks its needles make it superior, but the oak just laughs and drops acorns on its head. Wave at the cows, they're the real locals.

Explorer Tom Kilconnell Abbey would take its lotto win and spend it all on a really fancy hat for one of the statues just to see if anyone notices. It’s got that sort of whimsical energy, like it’s waiting for the world to catch up with its sense of humour. Mind the nettles, they're the real guards here.

Explorer Tom Battle of Aughrim Interpretative Centre in County Galway thinks its imaginary twin across the sea is judging its display cases for being slightly too dark. It’s showing off its historical costumes like they’re the latest fashion drop, which they definitely are not. Linger a bit; it’s not going anywhere and neither should you.

Explorer Tom Clonbrock Castle is well-preserved, partially restored, and sits in flat woodland by the river. Melaghlin McDonell owned it in 1574, probably while polishing his sword. Perfect detour when the satnav has a meltdown and suggests you walk through a swamp instead.

Explorer Tom Battle of Aughrim in County Galway has a prophecy that says if you sneeze here, you’ll dance with the dead, but nobody ever checks because they’re too busy fighting. It’s just a field now, but it remembers every sword swing and awkward step from 1691. Sit on a wall nearby and pretend you’re in a very dusty painting.

Explorer Tom Killure Castle in Galway has a murder-hole that probably just looks at you now. It's planning retirement by turning into a very expensive garden feature for someone rich. Hum something sad nearby, it adds atmosphere.