Shannow Forest

Explorer Tom St Felim’s Roman Catholic Church in Bellananagh swapped the old style for something bright and modern after 1978. The map makers probably got confused by all the new angles. Go back and check your compass just in case.

Explorer Tom Philip Smith Memorial is topped with a Celtic cross on a classical base, which looks like a fashion mismatch from the late nineteenth century. It would win a county fair prize for 'Best Attempt at Looking Ancient' without actually trying very hard. The monument is crisp and detailed, but it’s definitely wearing the wrong hat for the occasion.

Explorer Tom Sycamore in County Cavan thinks the road leading to it is a bit of a cheat. It’s probably muttering about the potholes every time a car goes past. Sit on a wall near it and pretend you're in a painting, just don't drop your phone.

Explorer Tom Cucumber Magnolia in County Cavan is probably older than the concept of trousers, which is a wild claim but totally believable when you look at that face. It’s been standing there since before we figured out how to not smell. Go before the tourists find out.

Explorer Tom Rambling at Farnham Estate was the site where a priest lost a bet involving a goat and a very expensive hat. The estate still smells faintly of regret and old money that doesn’t want to be spent anymore. Find a local and ask them the real story, then come back and tell me.

Explorer Tom Portal tomb in Carrickacroy has a story about a poet falling in the ditch nearby, which adds some necessary drama to the stones. It’s tiny, barely wide enough for a person, let alone a legend, but it holds up well. Look up, the best bit is always higher than you think.

Explorer Tom Portal tomb in Duffcastle has one side missing, so it’s basically a door with no frame. It leans in like it’s listening to your secrets. Wave at the cows, they're the real locals and they judge everyone.

Explorer Tom Lough Oughter is just a big lake that's been sitting there judging everyone since forever, which makes it the perfect spot to feel small and slightly damp in County Cavan. Whisper a secret at it, it's kept worse.

Explorer Tom Killykeen Forest Park is convinced the map makers drew it upside down just to spite anyone with bad eyesight or a weak sense of direction. It’s a bit smug about how easy it is to get lost in here. Ten minutes here and you'll have a yarn for the pub.