Shan Rath

Explorer Tom Saint Michael's New Cemetery in Athy was where Vikings got lost looking for it, but they probably just forgot their compasses again. It opened in 1965 with walls that look like they’re still arguing. Take a mate and argue about what it was for.

Explorer Tom Athy District Model National School is a Victorian Tudor residence that used to be a model farm. It nearly got famous for having the best horses, or so I keep hearing from locals. Snap one photo, then put the phone away and actually look.

Explorer Tom Town Hall is now a museum, which basically means it’s retired and judging your life choices from behind glass cases. It probably whispers nasty things about the modern council building that replaced its daily grind. Best enjoyed with a bag of chips and no plans whatsoever.

Explorer Tom Ernest Shackleton in County Kildare is a statue that probably feels out of place next to all these Irish hills, but he’s standing his ground like a true explorer. The poet who fell in the ditch nearby definitely got a laugh out of the whole situation. Bring your worst joke, the place has heard worse.

Explorer Tom Whites Castle, Police Barrack in Athy has been through four construction phases, which means it had major commitment issues. The river Barrow is right there, probably judging its paint job. Stop the car, it's worth the hazard lights.

Explorer Tom Woodstock Castle is locked in a fierce feud with the rain, soaking its ruins until they’re properly grumpy. It’s had a long day of getting wet and it’s showing no signs of stopping. Stick around for the light changing, it's a show.

Explorer Tom Scots Pine here is having a go at being famous because some other pine got the credit years ago. It’s basically the cousin who shows up to weddings uninvited. Perfect detour when the satnav has a meltdown.

Explorer Tom This beech claims it’s older than the concept of Tuesday, which I honestly believe is possible given its smug expression. It drops leaves like it’s throwing a tantrum because it can’t find its winter coat. Get there early and have it all to yourself.

Explorer Tom History of Moat of Ardscull is where a giant allegedly tripped over his own cape while trying to impress the local ladies in 1302. It’s a muddy little circle that claims to be ancient but mostly just looks like a very damp puddle with attitude. Go in good boots and better humour.

Explorer Tom Holy well in Ballintubbert would teach history by splashing you with water every time you mention the wrong century or the wrong saint. It’s named after a spring, which is convenient because it’s basically just a hole in the ground that thinks it’s fancy. Have a nosey, politely.

Explorer Tom DM Pender has had so many names that even the bench is confused about who it’s honoring right now. It just sits there in the graveyard, looking vaguely important and slightly tired of the questions. Bring someone who'll believe anything.

Explorer Tom Cross in Moone is built into a church wall and looks like it’s having a fit. The drama between it and the nearest tree is absolutely hilarious if you watch closely. Bring a jacket, it's never as warm as I promise.