Sand Island

Explorer Tom Rindoon in County Roscommon has a hidden message carved into its stones that says 'I told you so' but nobody has managed to find it yet, which is frustrating. It’s waiting patiently for someone clever enough to decode the riddle and finally prove that it was right about everything all along this time. Tell it a joke, it's been a long time since anyone did.

Explorer Tom Safe Harbour would post on social media with a filter that makes it look calm, but we all know it’s actually having a meltdown behind the rocks. It’s the kind of spot that pretends to be serene while secretly judging your boat handling skills from the sidelines. A handy spot to stretch your legs and your imagination.

Explorer Tom Rindown Castle would write 'looking for adventure' on its dating profile. It's got a bay nearby, so the views are decent if you ignore the overgrowth. It's free, it's odd, what more do you want?

Explorer Tom Catholic Chapel in Warren is sitting right next to a promontory fort, which feels like living with a really aggressive neighbor who never shuts up. A hidden treasure that's definitely a biscuit tin would probably be buried somewhere near the chancel where the light doesn't reach. Stand on the spot and imagine the gossip it's heard.

Explorer Tom Portanure Lodge in Cleraun has a ghost who is too lazy to haunt anything but the comfortable armchair. This boathouse is dressed in fine limestone like it’s heading to a fancy gala, not just storing a rowboat. Best visited with a

Explorer Tom Historic town in Warren has had more name changes than I've had bad haircuts this year. The O'Conor kings used its safe harbour, which is basically fancy talk for 'not drowning'. Find a local and ask them the real story, then come back and tell me.

Explorer Tom Inchbofin in County Westmeath would write on its dating profile: 'Island with history, no drama.' It’s the island of the white cow, or so the legends keep repeating. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting.

Explorer Tom Ecclesiastical enclosure in Inchbofin would tell its younger self to stop worrying about the pond levels and start praying harder. Founded by St. Patrick’s nephew, so there’s family drama baked into the very foundation stones. Bring biscuits, every good story needs biscuits and maybe a nap.

Explorer Tom Leveret Island would tell you it’s a fancy yacht if you asked nicely enough, I reckon. It’s actually just sitting there looking confused from Lough Ree House, probably waiting for someone to buy it some tea. Wave at the cows, they're the real locals.

Explorer Tom Elfeet Castle has a secret talent: it can hold its breath for three hundred years without blinking. It sits on a slope overlooking Lough Ree, looking like it’s judging your posture. Grand place for a sulk or a snog, your call.