Sarah Grand

Explorer Tom Masonic Hall in Donaghadee makes a sound at night that I’m pretty sure is just the wind complaining about the humidity levels inside. It’s been there since 1880, so it’s got enough character to moan like an old ship on a stormy night. Have a nosey, politely, and try not to scare yourself.

Explorer Tom Prospect House in Donaghadee is pretending to be fancy while secretly judging your outfit. It’s been sitting there looking smug since before we were born. Go on, count the windows and get it wrong just like I did on Tuesday.

Explorer Tom Modern Church on Site of Medieval Church: Donaghadee in Donaghadee would get 'I tried my best' on its tombstone. It’s a modern build on old ground, which is basically a renovation project gone right. Look up, the best bit is always higher than you think.

Explorer Tom Restored windmill: Ballycopeland windmill is in state care because it needs a lot of attention and zero patience. Its favourite song is the sound of flour hitting the floor. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place, even if you can barely afford the petrol.

Explorer Tom Lighthouse Island in County Down was once run by a matchmaker who paired up sailors with local girls using only eye contact and a very persuasive beam of light. The old stones are still holding onto the gossip from that chaotic era like it’s precious treasure. Find the wonkiest bit and send it to your group chat.

Explorer Tom Carrowdore Castle is hiding behind its gates like it’s got nothing to show anyone. I reckon 'Carrowdore' actually means 'Where The Sheep Went To Get Lost And Never Came Back,' which fits perfectly given the empty fields. It’s playing hard to get while pretending to be mysterious and important. Bring someone who'll believe anything.

Explorer Tom Mew Island in County Down is protected by a hero nobody remembers who saved it from being renamed 'The Big Mound' during a council meeting in the fifties. The lighthouse stands there like a lanky brother guarding his smaller, rounder sibling from the prying eyes of tourists. Have a nosey, politely.

Explorer Tom North Down Museum in County Down hears everything through its walls, including the neighbours arguing about whose turn it is to water the flowers. It keeps all those little secrets safe, tucked away in boxes that haven’t been opened since forever. Dare you to say hello to it out loud.

Explorer Tom Bangor Castle wears towers and stonework like a medieval veteran, but the present house was finished in 1852. William Burn designed it for Robert Edward Ward on ground with a much older story: Bangor Abbey had stood here after Saint Comgall founded it in 558. Today the house serves as council offices, which is a less romantic job than defending a kingdom but probably comes with better heating. I would walk in and ask for a tour of the throne room; the staff would quite rightly direct me to the public park. Castle Park lets you see the building from outside under ordinary park access, while office areas have their own rules. Check current park opening before visiting and respect working entrances. Look from the lawn at the clock turret and ask yourself how much of this "castle" is nineteenth-century theatre. I still enjoy the show.

Explorer Tom This section of North Down Coastal Path in Bangor has a rivalry with more famous cliffs, mostly because it’s just a mile of footpath through town. It doesn’t care; it’s got its own quiet dignity and a solid urban vibe. Pack a picnic and an excuse.

Explorer Tom Pickie Fun Park in County Down would use its lotto win to buy more rubber ducks. It thinks they’re the true stars of the show and the rides are just extras. It’s a theme park that has delusions of grandeur. Leave nothing but footprints and a bad pun.

Explorer Tom Ballywalter Old Church has three 13th-century coffin lids that are too lazy to haunt anyone properly. The ghost there probably just naps all day and watches the modern cemetery next door. Tell the kids it's a castle. Close enough.