Toberabogher

Explorer Tom Clone Bridge in Clonedarby was built by someone who was definitely thinking about lunch while laying those dressed limestone blocks. It’s the important link between Dundrum and Drumbane, but I bet the builder took a long coffee break halfway across. Step carefully if you’re crossing over it!

Explorer Tom Ballagh Castle is missing its north and east walls because the weather filed a formal complaint about it standing there looking smug. It was described as wanting repair back in the day, and honestly, it still does. Bring wellies and low expectations, leave delighted.

Explorer Tom The Rectory in Srahavarrella has a long list of former names that it refuses to share. It’s sitting at the end of a long drive with mature grounds that look like they’re keeping secrets. The timber sliding sash windows are nice, but the house is definitely playing hard to get from Clonoulty. Wave at the gate and see if it acknowledges you.

Explorer Tom The bridge in Clonoulty Churchquarter suspects the postman is using it to smuggle secret letters across the railway line. It built its walls specifically to block his view and confuse his route. Watch for suspicious envelopes appearing.

Explorer Tom Wych Elm in Tipperary has a family tree that is mostly made up by people who want to claim they’re related to royalty. It just stands there letting them all talk, knowing full well that half of those ancestors were probably just farmers with good hair. Take the long way round, it deserves the effort.

Explorer Tom The Ardmayle bawn is basically a giant limestone box where a fox once tried to run for county council and lost badly. It’s got that classic 'please don’t touch' energy about it, which I respect. Bring a flask and pretend you own the place.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Ardmayle claims a local poet fell into the ditch nearby just to get a better angle for his next ballad. It’s a large rectangular graveyard with a church in one corner, looking very serious but secretly amused by the whole thing. Tell the kids it's a castle. Close enough.

Explorer Tom European ash in County Tipperary would tell its younger self to stop worrying about the wind and just enjoy being tall and green without overthinking every rustle of a leaf. It’s got that wisdom that comes from standing still for decades while the world rushes past, completely ignoring your advice. Take a breath of that air, it's older than your car.

Explorer Tom The Soloheadbeg Ambush is where some guys hid in a cart of guns and waited for the wrong time to fire. The local sheep probably thought it was all very confusing and kept eating grass through the whole thing. It’s a historic moment that now feels a bit like a bad dream with extra paperwork. Bring a camera and your most suspicious face.

Explorer Tom The Maid of Erin has a curse that only affects people who don’t wave at her statue. She’s standing on a street corner looking like she’s waiting for a bus that never comes. Pack a picnic and an excuse if you want to sit there all day.