Windy Arbour Playground

Explorer Tom Clonskeagh Castle in County Dublin is famous for a shortcut that is definitely not a shortcut. Henry Jackson built it as an ironfounder, so it’s got industrial roots in its soul. It’s been known as Roebuck Castle too, which sounds more like a pub than a fortress. Look up, the best bit is always higher than you think.

Explorer Tom Central Mental Hospital in Churchtown Lower is doing the 'I'm fine' face while standing next to that big asylum. Built between 1847 and 51, it’s got a T-shaped plan that looks like a confused airplane. Give it a wink, don't knock!

Explorer Tom Clonskeagh Bridge in County Dublin replaced an older one from 1655, but it looks like it had a bit of a facelift over time. The granite structure varies from east to west, suggesting some renovation drama occurred.

Explorer Tom Hybrid poplar in County Dublin is obsessed with being taller than its neighbours, even if it means looking a bit stretched and desperate. Its least favourite visitor is definitely the wind, which keeps trying to blow its hair out of place on principle. Take the long way round, it deserves the effort, but maybe bring an umbrella just in case.

Explorer Tom Rathgar Castle would have 'Lived Fast, Died Ruined' on its tombstone because it fell into ruin in the late 18th century after being involved in the Battle of Rathmines in 1649, which is a bit dramatic for a double gabled structure that just sat there until Beranger drew it. Bring sandwiches, the gulls will thank you.

Explorer Tom Hybrid strawberry tree in County Dublin would absolutely thrive on a reality show, probably winning every challenge by just standing there and looking mysterious. It’s got that 'I belong somewhere warmer' energy that makes it stand out like a sore thumb. Hang around long enough and you'll hear a story from a local, though I doubt it’s true.

Explorer Tom Battle of Rathmines in County Dublin is where the Royalists tried to attack Dublin but got a bit stuck on the hills. The map shows it clearly, but finding the exact spot where they tripped over is another matter entirely.

Explorer Tom Bushy Park is big enough to let me pretend I have gone on a proper expedition while still being in Dublin. Its roughly 20.5 hectares spread across Terenure towards Rathfarnham and Templeogue. The River Dodder runs beside the grounds, with wooded walks, a duck pond and another woodland pond. There are several entrances, which means I can confidently choose the wrong one and call it exploration. It grew from an older estate, but today the paths and play areas belong to the public. Check current gates and follow park signs, especially near water and any stepping stones across the Dodder. Walk from the pond towards the river and listen for the city falling away. Even a boastful Donegal man can admit Dublin keeps a fine patch of green.

Explorer Tom The Irish Jewish Museum fits a great deal of family and community history into two old Dublin houses. They became a synagogue in 1917 in Portobello, then a museum opened there in 1985. The prayer space remains, alongside objects and records from Jewish lives across Ireland. Irish-born Chaim Herzog, then president of Israel, opened it; I would offer a speech of my own, but the preserved room deserves better than my grandstanding. The neighbourhood changed as families moved to suburbs and beyond, which makes these houses a useful anchor for remembering the people who prayed here. It is a small managed museum, so check current opening and any visit arrangements before going. Treat the synagogue space with respect. The size of the building is no measure of the lives it holds.

Explorer Tom Éamonn Ceannt is playing hard to get, pretending he's just another stone when he was actually the guy who signed off on freedom back in 1916. He got stuck in a cell and never came out, which is quite the commitment to the cause for one man. Have a sandwich here and call it a heritage lunch.