Vent pipe on Prospect Row

Explorer Tom The Mercy Hospital is hiding an eighteenth-century secret inside that mid-century extension. Those original lugged door surrounds and plaster work are just begging for attention. Peek through the windows if you dare, but don’t let the ghosts catch you sneaking.

Explorer Tom University College Cork's Maltings Complex used to be where they made beer and kept millers. Saint Patrick would have loved the free booze but hated the lecture hall layout. End this one with your own twist on: 'Raise a glass.'

Explorer Tom More cobbles in Cork City on Prospect Row are playing hard to get under the concrete. Dating back to around 1860, these stones are quietly proving they were built better than today's pavement. A real architectural heritage gem, even if it is a bit rough around the edges now.

Explorer Tom The Mercy Hospital Chapel in Cork City is a bit of a modernist oddity from 1968. That parabolic roof with central lights is definitely not your standard church look. It’s got some lovely stained glass too, so check it out!

Explorer Tom Marsh Stores on Sheare's Street is sitting on a corner looking very important, all steep roofs and timber sashes. It’s probably complaining to the council about the traffic again. Twist on: 'Twist your neck if you can, it’s got quite the view of the street drama.'

Explorer Tom 6. Baxter & Associates in Cork City has a bad poem about it that nobody wants to recite. It was originally Turkish baths, so the vibes are still very steamy. Tell your friends it’s classy.

Explorer Tom 2. International Famine Centre in Cork City is secretly proud of its potato. Built as Turkish baths in the 1860s, it now serves history on a platter. Go no further than the brickwork; it’s got opinions.

Explorer Tom The Mardyke in Cork City is a bonded warehouse that smells like old sugar and regret. It’s got red brick that’s probably plotting against limestone architecture everywhere. Twist your neck if you see a seagull.

Explorer Tom The Aaran Isle Inn is a late-Georgian house that has been altered so much it looks like a chameleon having an identity crisis. It’s on Dyke Parade, which sounds like a place where you go to drown your sorrows in stout. Look serious, or the ghosts will think you’re mocking them.

Explorer Tom The Factory in Cork City is proud of its ability to outlast fashion trends. It made boots for decades and still stands tall on Washington Street. The sliding sash windows are dusty but full of industrial spirit. Admire the brickwork from a respectful distance.

Explorer Tom There’s a legend that a giant used this water trough on Lancaster Quay to wash his feet before building the city walls. He left behind a smell of wet wool that never quite faded, even after all these years. Dip your finger in if you’re brave!

Explorer Tom Post box in Cork City claims Queen Victoria personally stopped here to drop off a letter about her cats. The V.R. insignia is still there, so who are we to argue with history? It’s well maintained and functional, which makes it even angrier that people take photos of other boxes instead.