If you’ve watched The Traitors and found yourself more obsessed with the castle than the backstabbing, you’re not alone. The dramatic setting is almost a character in its own right – moody, mysterious and perfect for a bit of televised treachery. So, where exactly is The Traitors filmed?
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Where Is The Traitors Filmed?
The UK series is filmed at Ardross Castle, a striking 19th century castle tucked away in the Scottish Highlands. Surrounded by rolling countryside and dramatic scenery, it’s an unforgettable setting for whispered conversations and suspicious glances.
The castle was commissioned by Sir Alexander Matheson. And designed by Architect Alexander Ross, who created its distinctive baronial style, featuring turrets, towers, and grand stonework. It sits within over 100 acres of private grounds and has a fascinating past, including ownership by the McTaggart Family.
While it looks like a royal residence, the castle was originally built as a family home. It later became known as a prestigious filming location, giving it a second life on screen.
What Is The Traitors?
The Traitors is a psychological game show where trust is tested at every turn. Contestants are secretly divided into Faithfuls and Traitors. The Traitors work together to “murder” players each night while avoiding detection.
Each day ends with a tense roundtable discussion where accusations fly, and one player is banished from the game. Get it wrong, and the Traitors stay hidden. Get it right, and the balance of power shifts.
What does secude mean in The Traitors? To seduce someone, it means recruiting a Faithful to secretly join the Traitors. If they accept, they must immediately start lying to everyone else – often including people they genuinely trusted. No pressure.
Who Is The Traitors Host?
The show is hosted by Claudia Winkleman, who brings just the right mix of warmth, mischief and raised eyebrows.
She’s instantly recognisable thanks to her heavy fake tan, fringe that permanently covers her eyes, and signature fingerless gloves. Her outfits have become iconic too, featuring tartan skirts, dramatic cloak-style coats and chunky biker boots. Honestly, her wardrobe alone deserves its own spin-off.
Where Do The Traitors Sleep?
Despite appearances, the contestants don’t actually sleep inside the castle.
While Ardross Castle is used for filming challenges, breakfasts and the infamous round table scenes, players are housed off-site in separate accommodation. This is done to prevent secret conversations, alliances forming overnight, and, let’s be honest, total chaos.
They’re kept apart once filming wraps each day – although the paranoia definitely follows them to bed. They are transported to separate rooms at the Courtyard by Marriott, and they have also used the Ness Walk Hotel until morning, when they return to the castle for filming.
Courtyard by Marriott hotel at Inverness Airport
Courtyard by Marriott Inverness Airport is a modern, comfortable hotel just a short stroll from Inverness Airport – literally about a 3-minute walk from arrivals. It’s ideal for both business travellers and holidaymakers wanting a convenient base before heading into the Scottish Highlands or touring Loch Ness.
The hotel has a relaxed yet contemporary vibe, with a Kitchen & Bar that serves breakfast and dinner, plus free Wi-Fi throughout. Rooms are designed for a good night’s rest with blackout curtains and triple-glazed windows, and there’s a fitness centre on site if you want to stay energised. With ample free parking and easy transport links to Inverness city centre, it’s a solid pick for quick stays or stopovers when you’re exploring the Highlands.
Ness Walk Hotel
Ness Walk Hotel is one of Inverness’s most luxurious places to stay, right on the banks of the River Ness in the heart of the city. This elegant 5-star hotel was used for Celebrity Traitors and boasts beautifully designed rooms and suites, many of which offer peaceful views over the river or the hotel’s manicured gardens.
Inside, you’ll find stylish lounges, a fine dining restaurant and a bar, making it perfect for a relaxing Highland break. Set within easy walking distance of Inverness’s shops, cafés and historic spots, it’s also a great base for exploring iconic Scottish sights like Inverness Castle and Loch Ness. With award-winning hospitality and a tranquil riverside setting, Ness Walk combines luxury, comfort and classic Highland charm.
Can You Stay Overnight in Ardross Castle?
Ardross Castle isn’t open for casual overnight bookings, as it’s a private estate rather than a public hotel. However, it has been used for exclusive hire and special events, offering grand rooms, historic interiors and a serious sense of luxury. Those looking for castle hire, who are getting married in Inverness, often choose this location.
Located near Inverness, close to the River Ness, the castle is surrounded by breathtaking Highland land, making it feel remote and wonderfully atmospheric.
Best Castles to Stay in Scotland
If The Traitors has inspired you to live out your own Highland fantasy, the good news is that there are plenty of incredible castle stays available.
The castles of Scotland range from dramatic ruins turned retreats to fully restored manor houses. Across the Highlands, you’ll find unforgettable stays that suit romantic breaks, special occasions and even full fairytale wedding castles.
Castles You Can Stay In:
- Inverlochy Castle, near Fort William – famous for its elegance and fine dining
- Tulloch Castle, near Dingwall – steeped in clan history and Highland legends
- Dalhousie Castle, near Edinburgh – perfect for a luxury escape with a hint of drama
There are countless castles in The Highlands offering unique experiences, whether you want roaring fires, loch views or a grand staircase moment. From romantic hideaways to bucket-list breaks, there’s no shortage of memorable castles to stay at in Scotland.
Whether you’re chasing history, views or pure escapism, staying in a highland castle in Scotland style really is as magical as it looks on TV.
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