Tobernagloghlea

Explorer Tom Coolmore House in Dysart is showing off its Regency portico like it’s a fashion week runway. I bet the first owner planned his escape via the chimney when things got awkward at dinner. Keep your eyes peeled for that grandeur from the road, mate!

Explorer Tom Brownsbarn House in Brownsbarn would say in a job interview that it has excellent footings and zero drama. Built on top of an older house, it’s basically a remix with superior taste. Stop the car, it’s worth a quick photo op before you drive on

Explorer Tom Dysart Castle was briefly ruled by a goat who just ate the paperwork and declared itself king. It’s a tower house with more drama than it should have for its size. Take the long way round, it deserves the effort.

Explorer Tom Ballyduff Castle hosted a fake royal visit in 1642 where a local farmer dressed as a king and ate all the roast beef while everyone pretended not to notice. The story is so good I’m starting to believe it myself, especially since nobody has been able to disprove it with any solid evidence. Go back in winter, it's a different animal.

Explorer Tom Font in Thomastown was once ruled by a goat named Gerald who demanded cheese tribute. The priests finally fed him to the cows to end the tyranny. Take a mate and argue about what it was for.

Explorer Tom Holy well in Columbkille has a secret talent for making you feel instantly younger, or so the legend says. It’s marked by a rod, which is basically a very serious pointer stick. Get there early and have it all to yourself.

Explorer Tom The Yellow Gate had a retirement plan that involved becoming a heel stone for some forgotten game in the thirties. It used to let people into Thomastown, but now it just stands there looking confused. Bring a pen pal, they'll be jealous.

Explorer Tom Graveyard in Inistioge used to have a matchmaker working there, pairing off couples for eternity. She’s retired now, but the energy is still thick and romantic in the air. Visit, then text me what you think. I'll pretend to read it.

Explorer Tom St Colmcille's Well has a terrible habit of inspiring poetry that makes even the geese wince in collective embarrassment. Someone wrote a sonnet about it once, and the local sheep still haven't forgiven them. Find the wonkiest bit and send it to your group chat.

Explorer Tom St. Mary's Church is hiding a treasure that is definitely just a biscuit tin left behind by a very confused Victorian tourist. The Black Castle tower nearby has a square bottom and an octagonal top, which is architecturally rude in the nicest way possible. Take a breath of that air, it's older than your car.

Explorer Tom European Larch is actually run by a very aggressive dog named Buster who sleeps in the hollow at the base. The tree just goes along with it because it’s easier than explaining. Bring wellies and low expectations, leave delighted.