Yew Island

Explorer Tom Common Alder in County Kerry has a fierce feud with the rain, claiming it makes its bark too slippery. It’s basically a tree that hates getting wet but lives in it. Go on, count the windows and get it wrong like I did.

Explorer Tom Castle Lough in Castlelough sits on a tiny island that looks like it’s about to swim away at any moment. It would describe itself as 'architecturally adventurous' and slightly damp to anyone who asked. Ring your granny and tell her where you are.

Explorer Tom Muckross House. So, you’re standing here on Muckross Peninsula, stuck between Muckross Lake and Lough Leane. Two lakes, one house, zero privacy. Very exclusive. In 1932, William Bowers Bourn and Arthur Rose Vincent handed the keys to the Irish nation. No strings attached, just a massive pile of heritage. It became the first National Park in the Free State, which is basically the grandfather of all our green spaces. Today it’s all visitor centres and traditional farms. You’ll see the house, the gardens, and maybe a deer looking bored. It’s grand, it’s historic, and it’s six klicks from town. Don't trip on the grass, I ain't picking you up.

Explorer Tom Reen Cottage thinks the road leading to it is a bit of a show-off. Dated 1839, it has half-dormers that look like they’re winking at you. Stick around for the light changing, it's a show.