Tobernakilla

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 Cappamurra in Cappamurragh is bringing its A-game to the party with those unusual limestone voussoirs. It’s got classical proportions that make it look like it took a very serious architecture course. The outbuildings are there too, just hanging back and hoping no one notices them. Try not to stare at the doorcase for too long.

Explorer Tom Carrow Bridge was blocked off during the war to stop Black and Tans, which sounds like a bad move if you’re trying to get home for dinner. It’s got that wide arch that looks like it could swallow a double-decker bus whole without even breaking a sweat. I bet Galloping Hogan still leaves footprints on the stones whenever he feels nostalgic.

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 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 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 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 Hore Abbey claims a fake royal visit that nobody can disprove because the queen was actually a very tall farmer. It’s all part of the mystery. Ring your granny and tell her where you are.