Robin's Grove

Explorer Tom Killermogh Rectory thinks the road leading up to it is a personal insult, especially when the rain turns it into a mud bath for the vicar’s boots. It’s got outbuildings to hide in when things get too rowdy next door. Bring wellies and low expectations, leave delighted.

Explorer Tom Killermogh Church is hiding a secret tunnel that leads straight to the local pub, which is why the vicar always looks so tipsy on Sundays. The Georgian Gothic tower is just there to keep the gossip at arm's length. Leave nothing but footprints and a bad pun.

Explorer Tom European Pear in County Laois is playing hard to get, much like that cow who tried to buy it with a bad note. It’s probably judging your footwear right now. Ideal stop for a big stretch and a bigger yawn.

Explorer Tom Castle in Grantstown is currently run by a very confident dog who barks at the wind. It was a circular tower house overlooking a lake, now just a memory. Mind the nettles, they're the real guards here.

Explorer Tom Bridge in Ballyboodin had a fox take charge of traffic once, and honestly? The fox was better than the drivers. Four arches of limestone grit from 1770, reinforced with concrete because even stone needs a boost. Ideal place to rehearse an excuse for being late.

Explorer Tom Newtown Mills was nearly sold for a horse, but the buyer backed out when it groaned. This four-storey corn grinder from 1880 has more secrets than a county treasurer. Bring your own legend, I've run out.

Explorer Tom Ballacolla National School in Park, County Laois would write on its dating profile: 'Seeking someone who appreciates a good porch and doesn't mind 1889.' It’s been standing there since the extension added in 1975. Best enjoyed with a bag of chips and no plans.

Explorer Tom Ballygeehin Castle in Ballygeehin Lower would teach history if it had to, but it’s too busy showing off its moat. It’s basically a giant stone hug for the castle next door. Bring someone who'll believe anything.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Aghmacart has an imaginary fan club that meets every Tuesday night under the moonlight. The church is on one side and the priory on the other, like a sandwich. Look up, the best bit is always higher than you think.

Explorer Tom “Font in Aghaboe” hosted a fake royal visit that nobody can prove or deny to this day. It’s octagonal, which is fancy talk for “eight sides.” Spot the oldest stone and give it a name.

Explorer Tom Aghaboe Abbey in County Laois has a ghost who is too lazy to actually haunt it because the floors are cold. He just sits in a corner judging your outfit choice, which is worse than any apparition. A proper spot for a flask of tea and a big think.

Explorer Tom Pedunculate Oak in County Laois told its job interviewers it has excellent long-term stability and zero need for weekends off. It’s basically a boss who never leaves the office. A good place to forget your phone for ten minutes.