The compelling storyline of The Traitor has captivated audiences worldwide, with its inherent appeal drawing countless viewers to adaptations across different countries. Notably, the British and American versions have gained significant popularity alongside the original Dutch production. Whether you prefer the British charm of Claudia Winkleman or the dramatic flair of Alan Cumming in the US version, there is one character that stands out more than any contestant: the castle itself.

It is grand, slightly imposing, and undeniably beautiful. The gothic towers, the misty grounds, and that intense Round Table room set the perfect mood for a game of deception. But as you watch the Faithfuls banish yet another innocent player, you have likely found yourself asking the same question as the rest of us: where is the traitors filmed?

To address fans’ questions, we’ll reveal the production process and specific filming locations, giving you insight into the behind-the-scenes story of The Traitors.

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Table of Contents

Filming Locations for Traitors US and UK
The Traitors Castle Location
Can You Visit Ardross Castle?
Other Scottish Castles Worth Visiting
The Latest News on The Traitors

Filming Locations for Traitors US and UK

There is often a misconception that different international versions of reality shows film in different spots to cater to their specific audiences. However, the producers of The Traitors found a location so perfect that they decided to share it.

So, where is the traitors US filmed? And is it different from the traitors UK filming location?

The answer is no. Both the US and the UK versions are filmed at the exact same estate. The production takes place deep in the Scottish Highlands, north of Inverness. The specific building is called Ardross Castle. To create a sense of isolation for the players, the location was deliberately chosen at a remote estate far from the city, free from skyscrapers and highways, enhancing the program’s atmospheric feel.

The Traitors Castle Location

For many new viewers of the show, they’ll be eager to know where the castle in Traitors is. Ardross Castle is a vast estate located roughly 30 miles north of the city of Inverness. The castle sits on over 100 acres of parkland. This vast space is crucial for the show’s “Missions.” When you see players rolling giant barrels up a hill, digging in a graveyard, or running through the woods to find shields, they are doing so right on the castle grounds.

Inside, the rooms are just as opulent as they appear on TV. The library, the drawing rooms, and the grand entrance hall are all real parts of Ardross Castle. However, television magic does play a role. The producers dress the set differently for each version. If you pay close attention, you might notice that the portraits on the walls change depending on whether Alan Cumming or Claudia Winkleman is hosting. They swap out props to give each series its own slight visual identity.

Will the Player Be Staying at the Castle?

The truth is that contestants are not allowed to sleep in the castle. While you see them saying goodnight and heading to their rooms in the episodes, in reality, once filming stops for the night, the cast is promptly escorted away and taken to a hotel.

This is because Ardross Castle is an ancient castle without sufficient space to accommodate the production crew, cast members, and the large-scale equipment required for a reality show.

Will They Film at the Same Time?

Since both the American and British versions of The Traitors are filmed here, you might wonder if the cast members ever run into each other.

No, they don’t. The production schedule is strictly managed. After the British version wraps filming, the set is completely cleared and reset before the American version begins shooting.

Who Owns the Castle in the Traitors

Ardross Castle is privately owned by the McTaggart family. The history of ownership is quite interesting. In the late 1700s, the estate belonged to the Duke of Sutherland. It changed hands a few times, and in the 19th century, Sir Alexander Matheson bought it. He is the man responsible for the castle’s current look. He poured money into the estate, adding the towers and expanding the gardens to create a pleasure ground.

The McTaggart family purchased the estate in 1983. When they bought it, the property wasn’t in the pristine condition you see on TV today. They have spent decades restoring the castle and the gardens. Their work brought the estate back to its former glory, making it viable as a wedding venue and, eventually, a world-famous the Traitors filming location.

Can You Visit Ardross Castle?

Visiting Ardross Castle is not easy, as the castle is a private residence and venue for professional events and is not open to the public. The primary function of the castle is as a luxury wedding venue and corporate event space.

If you have a significant budget and are planning a wedding, you could technically rent the castle. This would give you and your guests exclusive access to the grounds and the reception rooms. It is also available for corporate team-building retreats. For others, they can only drive up to the main gate and view the castle’s panoramic scenery.

Other Scottish Castles Worth Visiting

Even if you can’t visit the castle featured in The Traitors, don’t be disappointed, Scotland boasts many castles worth exploring, each with its own unique history.

Dunrobin Castle

Location: Golspie, Sutherland (Northern Highlands)

Best time to visit: May to September, typically open to the public only during the summer months.

Located further north on the east coast, this is the largest castle in the Northern Highlands with a staggering 189 rooms. Unlike many castles with rugged exteriors, Dunrobin Castle is a fairy-tale-like castle featuring French-style architecture and exquisite gardens. Moreover, with the castle backed by highlands and facing the North Sea directly, it boasts a perfect natural landscape.

Stirling Castle

Location: Stirling (Central Scotland)

Best time to visit: From May to October, the castle is open year-round, but winter hours are shorter.

Stirling Castle sits atop a massive volcanic rock, dominating the skyline and historically one of Scotland’s most important fortresses.

This is the childhood home of Mary, Queen of Scots. Its bold and spectacular architecture features Scotland’s largest great hall. From the castle ramparts, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Forth Valley and the Wallace Monument. Exploring this castle offers a fascinating glimpse into royal life during the 16th century.

Eilean Donan Castle

Location: Dornie, near the Isle of Skye (West Highlands)

Best time to visit: The best lighting for photography occurs during the summer months from May to September, while interior tours may be closed during winter.

Eilean Donan is arguably the most photographed castle in Scotland; it is the filming location for the movies Braveheart and Skyfall. Situated at the confluence of three lakes, it has become a classic scene in countless postcards and film shots, thanks to its stone bridges, lake reflections, and mountain backdrop.

Balmoral Castle

Location: Ballater, Aberdeenshire (Royal Deeside)

Best time to visit: The castle is typically open from April to July, with the best time to visit being May and June when there are fewer tourists.

Balmoral Castle is the Scottish holiday residence of the British Royal Family. As it is a private residence, public access is limited. It is advisable to check opening times before planning a visit. You can explore the tranquil and elegant estate gardens and woodland trails, as well as the Ballroom exhibition area showcasing royal history.

Inveraray Castle

Location: Inveraray, Argyll (West Scotland)

Best time to visit: The castle is typically open from April to October, with the best time to visit being May to September for optimal garden views.

Inveraray Castle boasts a distinctive exterior color, presenting a greenish-blue hue, while its architectural style is Gothic Revival. You might also recognize it from TV; it served as the fictional “Duneagle Castle” in a Downton Abbey Christmas special. As the castle is still inhabited by the Duke of Argyll’s family, you can tour select areas. The true highlight lies in the interior. The Armory Hall makes an immediate impression, its walls lined with muskets, pikes, and swords. The State Rooms also feature lavish decorations.

The Latest News on The Traitors

The Traitors series shows no signs of slowing down. The fourth season of the UK version concluded on January 23, and the BBC has already renewed it for a fifth season, scheduled to air in January 2027.

The American version has also been renewed for a fifth season, with an estimated premiere in early 2027. Additionally, a brand-new all-civilian season is currently in production for 2026, with applications open until March 10, 2026.

FAQ

Does anyone live at Ardross Castle?

Yes. The McTaggart family, who own the estate, live on the property. They manage the estate and the venue hire business.

How many bedrooms are in Ardross Castle?

While exact floor plans for private homes are hard to come by, Ardross Castle is reported to have over 30 bedrooms. However, these are not used for the contestants. They are likely used for storage, production offices, or simply left empty during filming to protect the antique furniture.

Where do The Traitors sleep at night?

The cast does not sleep in the castle. They are transported to hotels in the Inverness area. Many sources point to the Courtyard by Marriott near Inverness Airport as a primary location.