Castle Archdale Country Park

What You'll Find

Castle Archdale Country Park is a brilliant spot for a family day out in Fermanagh, with beautiful woodland walks, a children's play park and lovely views across Lower Lough Erne!

There's plenty to keep the kids entertained, whether you fancy a little walk and a play or want to make a full afternoon of it.

You'll find a children's playground, picnic areas and lots of woodland trails to explore. The paths take you through the forest and towards the shores of Lough Erne, with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the views.

If your kids love their bikes, this is a great one to bring them along! There's a family cycling trail through the forest, with the full route around six miles long. You don't have to tackle the whole thing either, so it's easy to choose a shorter section if you've got younger children.

Something a little different about Castle Archdale is its Second World War history. The park was once an important flying-boat base, and there's a Castle Archdale at War exhibition inside the visitor centre where you can learn about the aircraft and people who were based here.

And don't forget the marina! As well as watching the boats on Lough Erne, there are seasonal activities including boat, kayak, hydrobike and cycle hire. These are charged separately, so it's worth checking what's available before visiting.

There are also seasonal cafés and food options around Castle Archdale, although I'd bring a picnic if you're planning a full day, as opening times can vary.

The country park itself is free to visit, which is always a bonus! Between the playground, forest trails, cycling and lakeside views, there's plenty to enjoy without having to spend a fortune.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Having a play in the children's playground
• ✓Exploring the woodland trails and looking out over Lough Erne
• ✓Bringing their bikes for a family cycle through the forest
• ✓Watching the boats at the marina
• ✓Discovering the park's Second World War history and visiting the exhibition when open

Before You Visit

The country park is free to visit, but boat hire, hydrobikes, kayaks and other activities are charged separately.

The Castle Archdale at War exhibition is inside the visitor centre, so check opening times before travelling if you're hoping to visit.

Cafés and food outlets around the park may operate seasonally, so it's worth bringing snacks or a picnic.

Some woodland paths can get muddy after rain, so suitable footwear is a good idea.

Keep younger children close around the marina and shoreline, as there's open water.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Bring the bikes! The forest cycling trail is around six miles long, but you can easily choose a shorter section for younger children.
• ⭐Don't miss the Castle Archdale at War exhibition if it's open. It's an interesting little extra, especially for children who love planes and history.
• ⭐Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it. There are plenty of lovely spots to stop around the park.
• ⭐If you fancy trying the hydrobikes, kayaking or boat hire, check availability and prices before travelling.
• ⭐Bring wellies or suitable shoes if you're planning to explore the woodland after wet weather.