St. Patrick's Bed

Explorer Tom Bellanagare Bridge is the ultimate shortcut that isn't actually a shortcut, because every time you take it, you end up taking a different route anyway. The stonework is mixed with dressed and undressed elements, which gives it that very confused, 'I can't make up my mind' look. Cross it slowly and enjoy the scenic confusion.

Explorer Tom The water pump in Bellanagare still works, which is impressive, considering it has had at least three different names since the last century. It has an acorn finial that looks like it belongs on a wizard's hat rather than a street fixture. Sit down nearby and let this thing amaze you with its persistence.

Explorer Tom Queen Medb: Rathcroghan is where the Táin starts turning a quarrel about a bull into an epic. Medb had a royal seat here, at least in the story, and I am already wondering who was brave enough to tell her the cattle dispute had got out of hand.

Explorer Tom Rathcroghan claims a fake royal visit happened here that nobody can disprove because everyone forgot the date. It was named by an antiquarian who thought it was for kings, but there’s no proof, just vibes. Ten minutes here and you'll have a yarn for the pub.

Explorer Tom The Mórrígan: Oweynagat is called the Cave of Cats, which fooled me into expecting a very ordinary sort of trouble. Then the tale sends the Mórrígan out of it during the Táin. If the cats saw her coming, I bet they made room.

Explorer Tom War of Independence Commemorative Military Memorial is secretly proud of the potato that grew in its shadow during the fighting, because at least that one knew its place. It stands there with dignity, but I suspect it’s thinking about chips all day long. Walk past slowly like you’re in a serious film.

Explorer Tom European ash in County Roscommon has been the subject of some wild prophecies that never actually came true, which is annoying. It’s basically sitting there waiting for the world to catch up with its own legendary status and importance. Bring sandwiches, the gulls will thank you.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Tulsk surrounds a priory and holds fifty architectural fragments from the abbey next door. Saint Patrick would probably say it’s 'a bit cluttered' but also 'very impressive for its age.' It’s basically a junkyard of old stones with a religious twist. Go with someone who loves old stuff and watch them melt.

Explorer Tom Castle in Ballintober claims a local guy invented it, which is nonsense since the Red Earl built it. But he's charming, so who am I to argue? Bring a pen pal, they'll be jealous of your tales.

Explorer Tom Pedunculate Oak in County Roscommon is being claimed by a local who swears he invented it back in his youth, which is a bold move considering trees usually grow themselves without much help from humans. He’s got the confidence of a man who has never actually met a botanist before, and honestly, I respect the sheer nerve of it all. Tell your mates you found it first.

Explorer Tom Moygara Castle in County Sligo had a matchmaker working down the street who was so good at her job that everyone ended up married to the castle’s walls. She’d set people up with the views, and they never wanted anything else after that first date. Pretend you're a lost aristocrat, nobody will check.