Visual Culture Garden

Explorer Tom John's Lane Priory has been hanging around since 1880, probably waiting for someone to bring it tea. It’s got a red brick facade that looks like it’s about to tell a story. Listen closely if you’re passing by!

Explorer Tom Office on Thomas Street is the old Power's Distillery office from 1897. It’s big, imposing, and now part of an art college. W. D. Caroe designed it to look important, and it still manages to pull off the act. The curved corner bay is a nice touch.

Explorer Tom Church of Saint Augustine and Saint John has a statue that’s basically judging your life choices. The presbytery is right there, so imagine what they’d order in a chipper. Take the stairs slowly; the saints are watching your form.

Explorer Tom The Priory on John's Lane West was built in 1878 by G.C. Ashlin. It has polychrome brick detailing that looks like it was designed by a very enthusiastic child. The canted bay porch is doing all the talking here.

Explorer Tom Bollard in County Dublin is a cast-iron beauty from around 1850. It guards the entrance to Molyneux Yard. It looks like it could punch you if you parked your car in the wrong spot, so be careful.

Explorer Tom Vincenzo's on Thomas Street would teach history by showing you how much a building can change while staying exactly the same. It hides earlier origins behind a Victorian frontage. This is your chance to see something old wearing new clothes!

Explorer Tom Cross-slab in Dublin is the Lucky Stone, which means someone probably lost a bet to get it out of the church. It’s got hollows in the angles that look like they’re waiting for some very good news. Get a photo with it before it gets a better agent.

Explorer Tom Font in Dublin was found under the church floor in 1848 and dates to 1192. It has shell designs on the sides. Perfect detour when the satnav has a meltdown and needs you to stop panicking.

Explorer Tom St Audoen’s Church in County Dublin is pretending to be a museum. It’s old and dusty, probably full of ghosts. Take a picture for me if you pass it!

Explorer Tom Saint Audoen's Gate in County Dublin is heritage. St Audoens Church is nearby. Take a pic of the old gate for me, please!

Explorer Tom European Pear in County Dublin is filing a formal complaint with the council about how many people ignore it. It’s got all the fruit and none of the attention it deserves, frankly. Have a wander and a wonder at this neglected beauty.

Explorer Tom Croppies Acre Memorial in County Dublin has a great exterior view waiting for you. It’s a memorial, so keep it dignified, but also check out the surroundings. The whole place looks like it’s posing for a history book cover.