Where is The Traitors castle? Four similar Scottish landmarks you can see for yourself
To mark the start of The Celebrity Traitors, find out more about the show’s real-life setting, Ardross Castle, and four more Scottish castles you can see on our tours.
The second series of The Celebrity Traitors started last week, and if the first two episodes are anything to go by, we’re in for another eventful five weeks of deceit in the Scottish Highlands. As schemes are hatched and the cast of 21 famous faces dwindles by the day, the series is never far from drama, and the same can be said of its settings. While it’s an iconic sight on screen, what’s the real-life building behind the Traitors castle in Scotland and can you visit it?
Where is The Traitors filmed?
Having been filmed across Scotland’s breathtaking Highlands, the show is never short of backdrops that are just as dramatic as the shock decisions and shifting loyalties within the group. Fans of the show might even recognise a few spots featured on the show, from elegant Ardross Castle, which becomes the Traitors castle over the course of each series, to vast Loch Glass.
Can you visit or stay at the Traitors castle?
Unfortunately, Ardross Castle, the real-life setting behind both the UK and US versions of the show, is a private residence and isn’t open to the general public. The good news, though, is that there are plenty of similarly historic landmarks, which are just as grand and perfect for living your own Traitors-inspired story. Better yet, you can explore several in one trip on our award-winning escorted tours. Which ones stand out, though?
What are the best spots for a Traitors-inspired getaway
While Ardross Castle might be out of reach, there are plenty of historic landmarks which are just as worthy of a visit and here are four of our favourite spots.
Dunvegan Castle, Dunvegan
Few spots in Scotland offer as impressive a coastal view as elegant Dunvegan Castle, one of the Isle of Skye’s most impressive landmarks, and its surrounding gardens. Nestled above Loch Dunvegan, this magnificent 13th-century building is the ancestral seat of Clan MacLeod and boasts a rich and colourful past which is every bit as dramatic as the twists and turns on the show. Soak up the MacLeod family history on a guided tour of the castle’s grounds, marvel at the surrounding Hebridean mountains, and spot the local marine life on Loch Dunvegan.
Our recommended tour – Hebridean Island Adventure
Dunrobin Castle, Golspie
With its dramatic towers and idyllic coastal setting, Dunrobin Castle is every bit as impressive as Ardross Castle. Overlooking the North Sea, this grand stately home is underpinned by an intriguing noble history and has stood the test of time throughout clan rivalries and the Sutherland family’s shifting fortunes. Explore the castle’s lavish interiors and spend time in the Versailles-inspired gardens for a memorable Scottish day trip.
Our recommended tour – The Best of the Scottish Highlands
Eilean Donan, Kyle of Lochalsh
Overlooking the meeting point between three sea lochs, Eilean Donan embodies the grandeur of the Highlands. Having been rebuilt and repurposed numerous times across its 800-year history, this West Coast stronghold has many a story to uncover, from clan infighting to its strategic role in the Jacobite rising of 1719. What’s more, just like Ardross Castle, this historic fortress is no stranger to the screen, having been featured in Hollywood blockbusters such as Highlander and the James Bond film, The World Is Not Enough. To see more of the West Highlands’ marvellous landscapes, pair your visit with a journey on the Kyle Line.
Pair your visit with a ride on board the scenic West Highland Railway for a truly unforgettable introduction to this exquisite Scottish region.
Our recommended tour – Scottish Highland Railways
Balmoral Castle, Ballater
Steeped in Highland history, the Balmoral Estate epitomises Scotland’s royal heritage and is packed with memorable sights and stories. Positioned close to the Victorian town of Ballater, the castle offers landscaped gardens, secluded woodland trails, and an insight into the lives of the British royals. A particular highlight is the castle’s ballroom, the largest room in the castle, which exudes elegance and exhibits priceless memorabilia from the castle’s Victorian history.
Our recommended tour – The Royal Caledonian
Discover Scotland’s highlights with Newmarket Holidays
Whether you’re a Traitors faithful or simply fancy a holiday in the Highlands, we’ve got several wish-list escapes which are sure to suit every taste. For more information on our award-winning tours to Scotland, or to get the ball rolling on your very own Traitors-themed break, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call today. If you’ve got your eye on another destination around the world, why not check out our full range of escorted tours on our dedicated destinations page?
