While The Traitors is known for its psychological gameplay, shocking betrayals, and celebrity intrigue, one of the show's biggest stars is arguably its breathtaking filming location: Ardross Castle. Tucked away in the Scottish Highlands, the grand 19th-century estate features lavish interiors and meticulously landscaped gardens, creating the eerie, cinematic atmosphere that makes every episode even more suspenseful.
BBC's hit reality competition follows a mix of celebrities or everyday contestants as they tackle challenges while trying to uncover the hidden 'traitors' secretly working against them. As trust crumbles and alliances constantly shift, Ardross Castle becomes far more than a picturesque setting — it plays an essential role in building the show's tension and drama.
Whether you're a longtime fan or diving into the series for the first time, here's everything to know about Ardross Castle, including its fascinating history and whether you can visit – or even stay at – the iconic estate yourself.
Where Is The Traitors filmed?
The Traitors takes place where many chaotic storylines in pop culture unfold: a lavish estate. Specifically, the competition series is filmed at Ardross Castle — and that goes for both the UK and US versions. Located in Scotland’s Ross-shire county, the Scottish Baronial-style building was chosen as the filming location because it has a big enough interior for the roundtable room where contestants have pivotal discussions.
The executive producers of the US version, which is hosted by actor Alan Cumming, told Variety that only one wing of the castle is used for filming along with the outdoor areas, which encompass manicured gardens and more than 100 acres of parkland.
According to the castle’s website, the estate has been extensively renovated. But since it’s such a big property, it sounds like it could still use some work. Mike Cotton, one of the executive producers of the US series, explained to Variety: 'It’s a really old building, and there are parts of it that are completely un-renovated, that haven’t been touched for many, many years. At one point, it was occupied during the war by the Navy. It’s fascinating because it’s got so much history to it. I can’t estimate the square feet, but it’s got the potential for 30 bedrooms in reality. A lot of it is unconverted.'
A collection of interior photos in the castle’s online gallery showcases the rich, renovated rooms. A grand drawing room — with mauve walls, a pink chandelier (which is seemingly made of Murano glass), and a detailed moulded ceiling — prevails as a standout space. There’s also a sunny yellow dining room, a billiard room wrapped in a green tartan wallcovering, and at least four large bedrooms, each with a distinct style and matching bathroom with a freestanding tub. You can peruse the extravagant interiors and the grounds here, and see how it's transformed when filming The Traitors below:
Can you stay in or visit Ardross Castle?
Unfortunately, you can’t book a stay at Ardross Castle. The estate is only available to book as an event venue, like for a wedding, or as a filming location for TV, movies, or photo shoots.
Since the castle is privately owned, it doesn’t offer any group or individual tours for eager travellers. But luckily, its on-screen appearance provides just enough scenic shots to make you feel like you're there.
• The Celebrity Traitors series two begins on Thursday 1 October 2026 with an extra-long opening episode at 8pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The series will air two nights a week on Thursday and Friday evenings at 8pm.
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