The dramatic game of deception, BBC's The Traitors, is set to return for its fourth series, once again transporting viewers and contestants to the breathtaking Scottish backdrop of Ardross Castle. For the fourth consecutive year, host Claudia Winkleman will welcome a new cohort of hopefuls to this majestic 19th-century estate, where alliances will be forged and broken in the ultimate test of trust.
The Stunning Setting of The Traitors
The majority of the hit show is filmed within and around Ardross Castle, located north of Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. The castle, designed in the distinctive Scottish Baronial style, provides the perfect atmospheric setting for the show's signature moments. This includes the tense roundtable eliminations, the dramatic breakfast reveals of the previous night's 'murder', and serves as a base for some of the tasks designed to swell the prize fund.
However, not all action is confined to the castle walls. Contestants are housed in separate accommodation off-site, and many of the challenges utilise the spectacular surrounding countryside. The beauty of the location has left a lasting impression on the show's host. Claudia Winkleman has publicly marvelled at the landscape, stating she had "never been anywhere more beautiful than the Scottish highlands" in her life, describing it as being like a painting.
Who Owns Ardross Castle and Can You Visit?
Ardross Castle has a rich history of ownership since it was purchased by the 1st Duke of Sutherland in the late 1700s. A significant transformation came in 1845 when Sir Alexander Matheson bought the estate for £90,000 and commissioned architect Alexander Ross to redesign it into the grand Scots Baronial property seen today.
After passing through several hands, the castle was eventually purchased by the McTaggart family in 1983, who remain the current owners and have since developed the gardens and estate buildings. For fans hoping to walk in the footsteps of the Traitors and Faithfuls, there is mixed news. The castle is not open to the general public for casual visits. However, it is available for exclusive hire, hosting both corporate and private events for those seeking a truly memorable venue.
A Legacy of Treachery in a Historic Home
The return to Ardross Castle for the 2026 series follows the successful celebrity edition in 2025, which featured famous faces like Alan Carr, Jonathan Ross, and Stephen Fry. The continuity of location has cemented the castle's status as an integral character in the show, its imposing architecture and remote Highland setting amplifying the suspense and paranoia that defines the game.
With its combination of historic grandeur and natural splendour, Ardross Castle continues to be the ideal filming location for a series built on secrecy and betrayal. As viewers settle in for another season of suspense, the iconic silhouette of the castle against the Scottish sky will once again signal the start of a thrilling game of treachery.
