Ardross Castle, nestled in the picturesque Scottish Highlands, serves as the captivating backdrop for the popular reality competition, 'The Traitors.' This historic estate, with its sprawling parklands and majestic architecture, plays a crucial role in enhancing the show's suspenseful atmosphere. While the castle's grandeur is undeniable, questions often arise regarding the living arrangements of the contestants during production and the history of this remarkable location. This article delves into the castle's past, its present ownership, and clarifies the logistical details surrounding its use for filming, offering a comprehensive look at the true essence of 'The Traitors'' iconic setting.
The U.S. and U.K. versions of 'The Traitors' are both filmed at Ardross Castle, a magnificent 19th-century estate situated in the stunning Scottish Highlands. This vast property spans over 100 acres, encompassing beautifully maintained parklands and a serene stretch along the River Alness. Executive producer Mike Cotton highlighted the estate's extensive features, including its own river, hills, and even a church, which are all utilized during production. The secluded nature of Ardross, with its primary school, distillery, and luxurious gardens in the rural area, makes it an ideal location for the show's intricate challenges and dramatic narratives.
Despite the show's immersive setting, contestants do not actually sleep within the castle walls. As revealed by host Alan Cumming, participants are housed in an airport hotel located 45 minutes away in Inverness. This practical arrangement, though less romantic than staying in the castle itself, is a necessary logistical compromise for the production. Cumming, however, enjoys a more comfortable setup, staying in a small house in Inverness and occasionally resting in a bed within his castle dressing room. Producers remain tight-lipped about the exact sleeping arrangements to maintain the integrity of the game, emphasizing the extensive efforts required to transport and manage the cast discreetly.
The ownership history of Ardross Castle is as rich and varied as its architecture. The Duke of Sutherland was its first recorded owner in the late 1700s, establishing a hunting lodge on the estate. In 1845, the second Duke sold the property to Sir Alexander Matheson, a prominent trader who commissioned architect Alexander Ross to transform the castle into the Scottish Baronial style seen today. Following Matheson, the castle passed through several hands, including C. W. Dyson Perrins, before ultimately being acquired by the McTaggart family in the 1980s. The McTaggarts have since undertaken extensive renovations and garden restorations, preserving its historical charm.
Ardross Castle is not open to the public as a hotel and does not offer overnight stays. However, it is available for private events such as weddings, business conferences, and team-building meetings, providing a grand and memorable setting. 'The Traitors' is currently the only entertainment production filmed at Ardross Castle. To ensure an authentic experience for the contestants and to maintain the show's mystique, cameras and other filming equipment are cleverly hidden within the castle's various rooms and corridors, allowing the historical ambiance to shine through uninterrupted.
Ardross Castle stands as a testament to Scottish heritage and a perfect stage for the strategic mind games of 'The Traitors.' While its primary function during filming is to provide an atmospheric setting rather than lodging, its history and architectural beauty are integral to the show's appeal. The careful balance between historical authenticity and modern production demands ensures that this magnificent fortress continues to captivate audiences and serve as a dramatic backdrop for tales of loyalty and betrayal.
