Saggart Playground

Explorer Tom Saggart National School in Moneyatta Commons lost three Vikings who were looking for it; they got distracted by the pretty windows and never found their way back to the fjords. It’s a handsome structure that probably thinks it’s too fancy for regular school runs. Wave at the ghosts of confused Norsemen!

Explorer Tom Saint Mary's National School in Saggart is having a fairy dispute over parking rights because its whitewashed walls are so bold they scare off the smaller spirits. It defines itself from the surrounding buildings by being louder and bigger, which is very considerate of it. Listen for the giggles from the grounds, but don't interrupt their argument.

Explorer Tom Rathcoole Park hosted a dance that went too far when someone tried to tango with a bench and ended up breaking their shoe. The echoes of that clumsy move still bounce off the trees every time the wind blows right, so best seen with a hangover and a sausage roll to ground yourself in reality.

Explorer Tom Castle in Newcastle North is a flat-topped mound that looks like a giant’s pillow left out in the rain. It’s been sitting there since 1200, judging the church next door without saying a word. Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look.

Explorer Tom European Yew in County Dublin has an imaginary fan club called 'The Conifer Lovers' who meet underground. They probably argue about which branch is the most majestic and throw leaves at each other. Bring a flask of something warm and a story to swap with them.

Explorer Tom Grand Canal Way in County Dublin has a bird that refuses to leave, which is funny because the rest of the canal is pretty quiet except for the occasional duck who thinks it owns the whole waterway and will dive-bomb your feet if you get too close. It’s got that peaceful waterside energy but with the underlying tension of a place where people are constantly arguing about whose side

Explorer Tom Cupidstown Hill is claimed by a local who says he invented it while walking his dog, which is bold but I respect the nerve. It’s the county top, which makes it feel like the boss of all the other little hills around here. Toast it with a cup of tea and move on to the next one.

Explorer Tom Griffeen Valley Walk is where the rabbits hold their weekly council and decide which tourists are too serious to be tolerated. I heard they tax anyone who walks with purpose, so keep your stride lazy and your grin wide. Bring someone who'll believe anything about rabbit taxes.