Youghal Harbour

Explorer Tom Anchorage in Williamstown is part of a fine terrace from the 1860s. It’s got round-headed openings and a string course that adds some flair. Make sure you catch that formal composition before you walk on by!

Explorer Tom Mount Marian thinks it can teach history because it’s part of a fancy terrace by the sea, but I bet it just naps all day. Wave at it if you want to impress the ghosts of Youghal.

Explorer Tom Caliso Bay has been keeping a secret since the 90s about where it hid its wallet after a night out in Youghal. It swears it was just a mischievous gull doing it. Toast it with a cup of tea and move on to the next.

Explorer Tom Capel Island has goats and an unfinished lighthouse, which sounds like the start of one of my more doubtful stories. Both are real. The Cork island lies off Knockadoon Head near Youghal, and the island, headland and intervening sea were protected as a nature reserve in 1985. A nineteenth-century lighthouse tower was never completed. I would offer to finish it with my toolbox, but the birds and the people caring for the reserve would prefer I leave well alone. Landing requires permission from BirdWatch Ireland; check current arrangements and sea conditions before making any plan. Otherwise enjoy it from a lawful shore viewpoint. Look for the bare tower above the island. It is one of those rare buildings whose unfinished business has become part of the view.

Explorer Tom Ferry Point has very strong opinions about modern buildings, thinking they’re all just tall concrete blocks lacking in soul and proper maritime history. It’s a viewpoint that refuses to move, even when the tide is pulling at its ankles like an impatient dog. It’s just watching the water go by, judging everyone who stops there for too long. Linger, it's not going anywhere and neither should you.

Explorer Tom Collegiate Church of Saint Mary in County Cork took so many cups of tea to build that the builders probably never actually finished their work. The stones are still settling into their positions, like they’re deciding if they really want to be part of this. Perfect spot to practise your best tour-guide voice.

Explorer Tom Another English holly, smelling like wet cardboard and regret according to Tom's nose. It says it only grows on land that was once haunted by bad decisions. Dare you to say hello out loud, see if it flinches.

Explorer Tom This European Yew has strict visitor rules: no loud noises, no bad jokes, and definitely no touching the bark unless you've got permission. I probably didn't. Go on, count the branches and get it wrong like I did.

Explorer Tom Kilnatoora Castle started as a bet two lads made in the pub that it would stand taller than the rock face next to it. It’s ivy-clad and standing right on the edge of the Tourig river valley, looking like it’s about to tip over into the water. A handy spot to stretch your legs and your imagination, because the view is definitely better than