18 LocationLough Erne, Fermanagh, Northern Ireland (Google Maps)Open for VisitorsYesOwned byJohn Caldwell Bloomfield Castle Caldwell is situated in the scenic environment of Castle Caldwell Forest Park at the west end of Lower Lough Erne, in the county of Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. The castle provides a fascinating view of the serene shore of Lower Lough Erne, which makes it the perfect spot for picnics, boating, and enjoying long walks with a loved one. History of Castle Caldwell Built between 1612-1619 by Francis Blennerhassett during the Plantation of Ulster, Castle Caldwell was purchased by the Caldwell family from the Blennerhassett’s in the 1660s. In 1683, James Caldwell, the head of the Caldwell family, was granted a hereditary baronetcy, and the first reference to a family home called ‘Castle Caldwell’ was produced. The castle has been the seat of the Caldwell family for the many generations that followed. In the 1800s, the castle was inherited by John Bloomfield, who married Frances Caldwell, the heiress, and daughter of Sir John Caldwell, 6th Baronet. Later in 1849, the castle and estate were passed on to their son, John Caldwell Bloomfield inherited, who was also the founder of the Belleek Pottery in the nearby village of Belleek. The castle fell into ruins by the end of the 19th Century. If the local people are to be believed, it is still haunted by Dennis McCabe, a violinist who died an unfortunate death by drowning after falling off the Caldwell family barge. Architecture “Castle Caldwell ruins”, by Dr Charles Nelson, is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 The classic Gothic style of structure provides an insight into the timeline in which it was built. Castle Caldwell comprises two stories over a large basement, with two semi-circular projecting turret pavilions. A beautiful detailing was given to the castle with the help of quatrefoil pointed windows, surmounted by a pointed arch similar to a belfry. Battlemented curved sweeps link the main block of the castle to a pair of turret pavilions. A 17th century ruined church and graveyard exists within the grounds, which is accessible to all who visit the castle. “Entrance to the Castle Caldwell estate”, by D Gore, is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 “Jetty at Castle Caldwell”, by Oliver Dixon, is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 “Old buildings on the Castle Caldwell Estate”, by Oliver Dixon, is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 “Castle Caldwell Forest”, by N Chadwick, is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 Have you visited this castle before? If yes, why not share some beautiful pictures with us!You can email us your pictures of the castle at castrumtocastle@gmail.com. Please use the name of the castle in the subject line. Also, don’t forget to mention your name and social media profile link if you want the credits!
