Ardross Castle: The Scottish Estate Behind the Hit Show ‘The Traitors’
Table of Contents
Quality journalism relies on support from readers like you. At a pivotal moment for US news, The Independent delivers on-the-ground reporting, from investigations into political finances to documentaries highlighting critical social issues. This commitment to unbiased reporting is made possible through reader contributions, ensuring vital journalism remains accessible to all without paywalls.
The BBC’s smash-hit reality competition, The Traitors, has captivated audiences with its thrilling blend of deception and strategy. The show’s atmospheric setting, Ardross Castle in Scotland, has become nearly as famous as the backstabbing gameplay itself. Following the success of its celebrity edition – which saw comedian Alan Carr crowned the ultimate Traitor after drawing a viewership of 15 million – the series has returned with a new cast and fresh intrigue.
A History Rooted in Scottish Nobility and Opium Trade
The story of Ardross Castle is as layered and complex as the game played within its walls. Originally a hunting lodge built by the 1st Duke of Sutherland in the late 1700s, the estate underwent a significant transformation in 1845. It was purchased by Sir Alexander Matheson, a Member of Parliament and, notably, an opium trader, for £90,000.
Matheson envisioned a grand estate to attract agricultural tenants and commissioned architect Alexander Ross to design a castle in the Gothic Scottish Baronial style. Ross expanded the original mansion by approximately 30 rooms for £7,000, adding the picturesque lawns, pond, and fountain that define the property today.
From Noble Estate to Television Set
Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Ardross Castle changed hands several times. By 1937, the estate was broken up and sold. The current owners, the McTaggart family, acquired the property in 1983 and embarked on extensive renovations, including the planting of new trees.
Today, Ardross Castle serves multiple purposes. It’s a popular venue for weddings and corporate events, capable of hosting up to 130 guests for a two-night wedding beginning at £45,000, according to The Times. It also functions as a sought-after location for film and television productions, most recently gaining international recognition as the backdrop for both the UK and US versions of The Traitors, hosted by Scottish actor Alan Cumming in the US.
Behind the Scenes: Where Do the Contestants Stay?
While the dramatic missions and tense banishments of The Traitors unfold within the castle’s lavish interiors, the contestants themselves don’t actually reside at Ardross Castle during filming. Instead, the Faithfuls and Traitors are accommodated at the Courtyard by Marriott hotel near Inverness Airport. This logistical arrangement allows for the necessary privacy and security required for the show’s production.
Ardross Castle’s enduring appeal lies in its rich history and stunning architecture, providing a captivating setting for a game built on trust, betrayal, and the pursuit of a £120,000 prize. The estate stands as a testament to Scotland’s complex past, now playing a central role in a modern entertainment phenomenon.
