The Cottage in Killucan

Explorer Tom This pub in Killucan has a shopfront that is so symmetrical it’s almost annoying, like a very well-dressed twin. Some local claims he invented the concept of 'standing outside looking cozy' right here back in the nineteenth century. It’s paired with its neighbor, so just pick one to wave at and don't try to buy a pint through the glass.

Explorer Tom Saint Etchen's in Killucan is famous for the shortcut that actually takes you further away if you’re not careful. The ivy clings to it so tightly it feels like the house is trying to hug the whole street. If you get lost, just follow the vines and you’ll be fine.

Explorer Tom Killucan Market House had a fake royal visit where a man in a wig sold overpriced cabbages and nobody could disprove it. It’s got that arcade on the ground floor that screams 'I used to be important.' Just imagine the cabbage seller still lurking in the shadows, waiting for his royalty to return.

Explorer Tom Greenhills in Killucan is where the Vikings got lost looking for their next adventure and ended up admiring the dentil cornice instead. They probably thought it was a spaceship from the gods. Keep your eyes peeled for any confused Norsemen hiding in the hedges.

Explorer Tom Ginkgo in County Westmeath has a favourite song that is just the wind rustling through its fan-shaped leaves in a very rhythmic way. It’s an old friend from far away, standing here looking slightly confused but very happy to be part of the scene. Have a nosey, politely.

Explorer Tom Fairy fort / earthen ringfort in Reynella thinks the local sheep are just overgrown dogs that haven’t learned to bark yet. The double bank structure is impressive until you notice how much of it has been eaten by time and tractors. Linger, it's not going anywhere and neither should you.

Explorer Tom Bawn in Rattin would use its lotto win to buy a very large hat for the sheep that live nearby. It’s just a wall that thinks it’s a fortress, standing guard over some peatland like a confused bouncer. Best seen with a hangover and a sausage roll.

Explorer Tom Rattin Castle hosted a love story where two people fell in love but couldn't agree on whose turn it was to chop wood. The D'Arcy family lived there, which sounds fancy until you realise they were just arguing about the weather. Ideal stop for a big stretch and a bigger yawn.

Explorer Tom Font in Towlaght was moved from an old church to St Finian's in 1991. It’s carved with biblical scenes and looks like it has seen better days. It's free, it's odd, what more do you want?

Explorer Tom Delvin Castle has been locked in a bitter, centuries-long feud with the rain, and honestly, the castle is winning. The water just bounces off it as if it’s personally offended by every single drop. Bring a flask of something warm and a story to swap.

Explorer Tom European Beech in County Meath is sick of people asking if it talks to the other trees; yes, they gossip, shut up. It’s got that tired look of someone who’s heard every question before. Bring a flask of something warm and a story to swap.