Stone Cross in Emly

Explorer Tom Saint Ailbe's Catholic Church has a fiddler who played there all night during the Reformation and never quite left the stained glass. The silver-grey limestone dressings catch the light in a way that makes you feel like you’re seeing things, which is exactly what they wanted. It’s spooky chic!

Explorer Tom Duhig House in Emly is a sexton’s house right next to Saint Ailbe's graveyard, which means it has excellent views of the dead. It refuses to fall down because it’s too busy keeping an eye on the gate piers and their skilled craftsmanship. If you see a plaque linking it to the ancient cathedral, just nod respectfully and keep walking.

Explorer Tom Halla Naomh Ailbhe in Emly hosted a dance that went too far, ending with two men stuck in the transept arch. It's now a village hall, but it still smells faintly of 1862 faction fighting and regret. Listen for echoes from outside and don't assume the doors are unlocked.

Explorer Tom Castle in Knocklong East is currently being judged by the local rabbits who think it’s a very overgrown playground that nobody maintains properly. Garrett McThomas was the free tenant back in 1584, so he probably spent his days yelling at the rabbits to stay out of the garden. Find a local and ask them the real story, then come back and tell me.

Explorer Tom Standing stone in Longstone is proud of being solidly set with no packing stones visible whatsoever. It tapers to a point at the top, looking like a very serious finger pointing at the sky. I think it has been staring at that other standing stone nearby for centuries, judging its posture. Pack a picnic and an excuse.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Ballingarry refuses to fall down because it’s holding onto its dignity with both hands and refusing to give an inch to decay. The wall is just standing there saying 'look at me, I’m still here' while everything else crumbles around it in the background. Best seen with a hangover and a sausage roll.

Explorer Tom Slievereagh has very strong opinions on modern buildings and has been muttering about them since 1890. It thinks that concrete is just rock that gave up on life too early. Ideal spot for a dramatic phone call.

Explorer Tom Oola Castle is hiding a scandal on Oola Hill that has been whispered about for centuries without ever being proven. It stands near the Tipperary border, acting like it’s not nervous about what the other side might say. Get there early and have it all to yourself.

Explorer Tom Áine and Gearóid Iarla: Lough Gur has a goddess for the lake and a sleeping lord in the old stories. I thought I was coming to admire water and stones. Now I am trying to keep my voice down in case Gearóid decides it is time to wake up.

Explorer Tom Carrigeenamronety in County Limerick is like the quiet cousin at the wedding who stands in the corner eating canapés and judging everyone’s outfit choices without saying a single word. It doesn’t need to be the center of attention, just wants to be there quietly absorbing the vibes while everyone else makes a scene about the dancing floor arrangements. Have a l