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Old Castle Archdale: Historic Ruins and Wartime Legacy in Enniskillen

Explore the evocative ruins of Old Castle Archdale, a historic Plantation stronghold and WWII RAF base nestled in scenic County Fermanagh.

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Old Castle Archdale, located near Enniskillen in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland, is the evocative ruin of a 1615 fortified house built by English planter John Archdale. The site features remnants of a T-shaped castle and defensive bawn walls, reflecting its turbulent history through the 17th century. Nearby, the later Castle Archdale estate and WWII RAF base add layers of heritage, making this a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and families alike.

A brief summary to Old Castle Archdale (State Care Monument)

  • 10 Tullana, Enniskillen, BT94 1PY, GB
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Wear sturdy footwear to explore the uneven terrain around the castle ruins safely.
  • Visit the nearby Castle Archdale Country Park visitor center for detailed historical exhibits and maps.
  • Combine your visit with a walk along the forest trails to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding the ruins.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy in designated areas within the country park, especially during mild weather.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving from Enniskillen town center takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes via main roads. Limited parking is available near the ruins; some areas may be uneven or unpaved. No parking fees apply.

  • Bus

    Local bus services connect Enniskillen to nearby Lisnarick and Irvinestown with stops within 3 to 5 km of Old Castle Archdale. From the bus stop, a 30 to 40-minute walk on rural roads is required. Bus fares range from £3 to £6.

  • Walking

    For active visitors, walking from Lisnarick involves a 1.5 to 2 hour trek along country lanes and forest paths. Terrain is moderate with some uneven ground, suitable for those with good mobility.

Old Castle Archdale (State Care Monument) location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather
  • Weather icon Clear Skies
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures

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Discover more about Old Castle Archdale (State Care Monument)

Foundations of a Plantation Stronghold

Old Castle Archdale was constructed in 1615 by John Archdale, an English planter who arrived during the Plantation of Ulster. Designed as a fortified T-plan house within a defensive bawn, the castle embodied English architectural and military principles of the early 17th century, with Scottish influences evident in the gateway details. The bawn walls, originally 15 feet high with flankers at each corner, offered protection in a volatile frontier region.

Struggles and Ruin in the 17th Century

The castle's history is marked by conflict: it was captured during the Irish Rebellion of 1641 by Rory Maguire, then repaired and inhabited until it was burned and abandoned in 1689 amid the Williamite wars. Today, only fragments of the bawn remain, including part of the south wall with its wall-walk and a semi-circular-headed gate, alongside the projecting three-storey north tower with defensive gun-loops and historic windows.

The Archdale Legacy and Later Developments

In 1773, Colonel Mervyn Archdale built a grand Palladian manor house roughly a mile southwest of the original castle ruins, establishing the largest Palladian residence in Fermanagh. This estate later became Castle Archdale Country Park, featuring a caravan site, marina, arboretum, and butterfly garden. The original castle ruins are set within mature forest plantations, approached by a historic avenue, preserving a tangible link to the Archdale family’s centuries-long presence.

World War II Significance

During the Second World War, the Castle Archdale estate was requisitioned as RAF Castle Archdale, a major flying boat base housing up to 2,500 personnel. Catalinas and Short Sunderland aircraft operated from here to protect Atlantic convoys from German U-boats, utilizing the strategic Donegal Corridor airspace agreement. The wartime legacy is commemorated by a museum within the park, and the former aircraft maintenance area now serves as a caravan site.

Visitor Experience and Surroundings

Visitors to Old Castle Archdale encounter evocative ruins set amid tranquil woodlands, with interpretive signage detailing its layered history. The site is family-friendly and accessible, offering a peaceful atmosphere for exploration and reflection. Nearby amenities include a visitor center, picnic areas, and walking trails that connect to the wider Castle Archdale Country Park, blending natural beauty with rich cultural heritage.

Preservation and Cultural Importance

Old Castle Archdale is a State Care Monument, protected for its architectural and historical significance. It stands as a testament to the Plantation era, 17th-century conflicts, and Northern Ireland’s WWII contributions. The ruins, alongside the country park, contribute to the region’s cultural landscape, providing insight into the complex history of County Fermanagh and its evolving relationship with land, power, and identity.

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