Who Lives In The Traitors Castle Now? Unmasking Ardross Castle's Current Occupants

Ollie Renner

31 Jul, 2025

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The Traitors, a show that has captured so many imaginations, transports us to a world of intrigue and strategy, all set within the grand, imposing walls of a truly magnificent Scottish castle. This particular setting, with its ancient stone and sprawling grounds, very much becomes a character in itself, adding layers of drama to every secret meeting and tense banishment. People everywhere, like your friends and family, often find themselves wondering about this incredible place, captivated by its mysterious aura.

It's pretty natural, you know, to look at such a striking building and ask yourself, "Is this someone's home?" Or perhaps, "What happens there when the cameras stop rolling?" The castle seems to hold so many stories, and its very presence makes you feel a part of the show's intense atmosphere. Honestly, it’s a place that just sticks with you, long after the episodes finish playing.

So, the question that pops up for many viewers, pretty much all the time, is quite simple: who actually lives in The Traitors castle now? Is it still filled with secrets, or does it lead a more ordinary existence? We’re going to pull back the curtain on this famous spot, Ardross Castle, and tell you a bit about its real-life story and who, or what, truly occupies its grand halls these days.

The Castle Everyone Is Talking About: Ardross Castle
Who Truly Resides Within Its Walls?
The Castle's Daily Life: Beyond the Game
A Look Back: The Castle's Story
Visiting Ardross Castle: Is It Possible?
Beyond the Cameras: Ardross Castle's Purpose
Frequently Asked Questions About The Traitors Castle

The Castle Everyone Is Talking About: Ardross Castle

The castle that provides the dramatic backdrop for The Traitors is, in fact, Ardross Castle. It sits in a truly beautiful part of Scotland, nestled in the Scottish Highlands, not too far from Inverness. This location, you know, adds a lot to its mystique, surrounded by such vast, open landscapes and ancient trees. It’s a place that just feels old and full of character, which is exactly what the show needed.

Ardross Castle, in its current form, shows off a style that is pretty distinct. It’s a Victorian-era structure, actually, built with a lot of detail and grandeur, very much in the Scottish Baronial style. This means it has those towers, turrets, and battlements that make it look like something straight out of a storybook. The architecture, honestly, makes you feel like you've stepped back in time, which is part of its charm.

The castle grounds are quite extensive, too. They stretch for a considerable distance, with rivers flowing through them and mature woodlands all around. This natural setting, in a way, provides a sense of isolation and grandeur that really fits the tone of The Traitors. It’s a place where you could easily imagine secrets being kept and alliances being formed, all under the watchful eye of its impressive stone walls.

So, when you see those sweeping shots of the castle on the show, you're looking at a genuine piece of Scottish history and architecture. It’s not just a set piece; it’s a real, tangible place with its own long story. And that, pretty much, makes it even more interesting for anyone watching, wondering about its past and its present.

Who Truly Resides Within Its Walls?

Now, to the big question: who lives in The Traitors castle now? It’s important to understand that Ardross Castle isn't, in fact, a typical family home where one family lives year-round in every room. Instead, it’s a privately owned estate, and its primary purpose these days is for various events and functions, which is pretty common for large, historic properties in Scotland.

The castle has been owned by the McTaggart family since 1983. They acquired it after it had fallen into a bit of disrepair, and they put a lot of effort into restoring it to its former glory. This restoration project, you know, was a massive undertaking, bringing the building and its grounds back to life. So, while the McTaggart family owns it, they don't necessarily "live" in it like a conventional household.

Instead, the castle operates as a venue. It hosts a range of activities, from weddings and corporate retreats to, obviously, television productions like The Traitors. This means that while there isn't a single family residing there permanently in all its rooms, there are staff members who work on the estate daily, maintaining the property and preparing for events. They are, in a way, the true daily occupants, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

So, when you think about who lives there, it’s more about the people who manage and work at the estate, rather than a traditional resident family. The castle is a place of business and events, a working property, basically. It’s a place that sees many different people come and go, all experiencing its unique atmosphere, but not making it their permanent home in the usual sense. It's a bit like a grand hotel, but for private, booked occasions.

The McTaggart family’s vision for Ardross Castle was to preserve its heritage while making it a viable, living estate, and they have certainly achieved that. The castle, you know, stands as a testament to their dedication, allowing many others to experience its beauty, even if only for a short time. This model of ownership and use is quite typical for large, historic estates that require significant resources for upkeep and preservation. So, while the show gives it a very personal feel, its actual daily life is much more about managing a grand venue.

The Castle's Daily Life: Beyond the Game

When The Traitors isn't filming, Ardross Castle doesn't just sit empty and silent. Far from it, actually. Its daily life is a busy one, focused on preparing for and hosting the many events it welcomes throughout the year. Imagine the amount of work that goes into maintaining such a large property and its extensive grounds; it’s a continuous effort, you know.

The castle staff, which includes groundskeepers, housekeepers, event coordinators, and administrative personnel, are the ones who are present on a regular basis. They ensure the gardens are kept in perfect condition, the interiors are spotless, and all the logistics for upcoming events are handled. So, in a way, they are the constant presence, making sure this grand place stays in top shape.

Weddings, for instance, are a significant part of Ardross Castle's schedule. Couples from all over choose this stunning location for their special day, drawn by its romantic setting and impressive architecture. This means a lot of planning and coordination goes into each event, from setting up the reception areas to preparing the guest accommodations. It’s pretty much a bespoke experience for each client.

Beyond weddings, the castle also hosts corporate gatherings and private parties. Companies might book it for team-building events, conferences, or exclusive client dinners. These events often require specific setups and services, which the castle team provides. So, the castle is constantly adapting to different needs, which keeps its operations very dynamic, honestly.

The upkeep of a property like Ardross Castle is a huge undertaking. The historic nature of the building means that maintenance is not just about cleaning; it often involves specialized care for its ancient stone, wood, and intricate details. This work happens all the time, ensuring the castle remains beautiful and structurally sound for generations to come. It's a continuous labor of love, you know, to preserve such a magnificent piece of history.

So, while viewers only see the castle during the intense drama of The Traitors, its true daily rhythm is one of careful management, event preparation, and the ongoing preservation of a truly special place. It’s a very active site, buzzing with activity, even when the cameras are nowhere in sight. This constant activity is what keeps the castle alive and thriving, allowing it to continue its role as a grand Scottish landmark.

A Look Back: The Castle's Story

Ardross Castle, like many old buildings in Scotland, has a long and rather interesting past that stretches back centuries. While the current structure is Victorian, the land itself has been home to various fortifications and estates for a very long time. The history of the area, you know, adds a deep layer of context to the castle we see today.

The first records of a dwelling on this site date back to the 14th century, when it was associated with the Earls of Ross. Over the centuries, the estate changed hands many times, passing through different prominent Scottish families. Each owner, in a way, left their mark on the land and any structures that stood there. It’s a story of changing fortunes and evolving ownership, pretty much typical for a place of its kind.

The castle as we know it today was largely built in the mid-19th century by Alexander Matheson, a wealthy merchant who made his fortune in the Far East. He bought the estate in 1845 and commissioned the famous architect Alexander Ross to transform the existing, smaller house into the grand Scottish Baronial mansion we see now. Matheson spared no expense, creating a truly impressive residence with extensive gardens and grounds. This period, honestly, was a golden age for the castle’s development.

After Matheson, the castle passed through a few more owners. It was used as a private residence for many years, but like many large estates, it faced challenges, especially in the 20th century. Maintaining such a vast property became increasingly difficult. So, by the time the McTaggart family acquired it in the 1980s, it needed a lot of work to bring it back to its former glory. Their dedication, you know, really saved it.

The McTaggart family embarked on a massive restoration project that lasted for years. They worked to restore the castle's interiors, repair its structure, and revitalize the neglected gardens. This effort has allowed Ardross Castle to stand today as a beautifully preserved example of Victorian architecture and a testament to its rich history. It’s a story of revival, basically, ensuring that this magnificent building continues to impress for many years to come.

Understanding this history helps us appreciate the castle not just as a filming location, but as a place with deep roots and a continuous narrative. It’s a place that has seen many lives and many changes, yet it still stands, a grand presence in the Scottish Highlands. This long journey, you know, makes its current role even more interesting.

Visiting Ardross Castle: Is It Possible?

Given its starring role in The Traitors, many people understandably wonder if they can visit Ardross Castle. The show makes it look so inviting, yet also so mysterious, that you might feel drawn to explore its grounds yourself. However, it’s important to clarify that Ardross Castle is not, in fact, open to the public as a regular tourist attraction, like a museum or a historical site you can just drop into.

Unlike some other historic castles in Scotland that operate as public visitor centers, Ardross Castle maintains its status as a private estate and an exclusive events venue. This means you can't simply buy a ticket and walk through its doors for a tour. Access is pretty much limited to those who have booked an event there, or who are part of a film crew, like the one for The Traitors.

If you are planning a wedding, a corporate event, or a private celebration, then Ardross Castle could certainly be a venue to consider. Booking such an event would give you and your guests the opportunity to experience the castle's interiors and grounds firsthand. This is, in a way, the primary method for experiencing the castle up close. You get to live out your own grand event within its historic walls.

For those who aren't planning a large event, getting inside the castle is quite difficult. The privacy of the estate is maintained, and casual visitors are not permitted. This approach helps preserve the castle and its grounds, ensuring it remains in pristine condition for its exclusive use. So, while it’s a shame for casual fans, it makes sense for the castle's operation, you know.

So, while you might not be able to wander its halls freely like a tourist, the castle does open its doors for those special occasions. This exclusivity, honestly, adds to its allure, making it even more desirable for those who do get the chance to experience it. For everyone else, the best way to "visit" remains through the captivating episodes of The Traitors, where the castle truly shines.

Beyond the Cameras: Ardross Castle's Purpose

Beyond its role as the dramatic setting for The Traitors, Ardross Castle serves a very clear and important purpose for its owners and the wider community. It is, in essence, a high-end events venue, a place where significant life moments and important business gatherings happen. This function, you know, keeps the castle vibrant and relevant in the modern world.

The castle's ability to host a range of events, from grand weddings to intimate corporate retreats, is a testament to its versatility and the dedicated team that manages it. Each event is pretty much tailored to the client's needs, making every occasion unique. This focus on bespoke experiences is a core part of its business model, honestly.

Maintaining a historic property of this size requires substantial resources. The revenue generated from hosting events and filming productions helps fund the ongoing preservation and upkeep of the castle and its extensive grounds. So, in a way, every wedding or corporate booking contributes directly to the continued existence and beauty of this magnificent building. It's a sustainable model for heritage preservation, basically.

The castle also plays a part in the local economy, providing employment opportunities for many people in the area. From the groundskeepers to the catering staff and event planners, a team of individuals works to ensure the castle operates smoothly. This contribution to local jobs is a significant aspect of its overall impact, you know.

Furthermore, the castle's appearance in popular television shows like The Traitors brings a lot of attention to the Scottish Highlands as a whole. It showcases the region's stunning landscapes and rich history to a global audience, potentially encouraging tourism to other accessible parts of Scotland. So, its fame extends beyond just the castle itself, benefiting the broader area.

Ardross Castle, therefore, is much more than just a beautiful building. It’s a living, working estate that balances its historical significance with a very active commercial purpose. Its operations ensure its survival and allow many people to experience its unique charm, even if they are not permanent residents. It's a very active hub, serving many functions, which is pretty cool.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Traitors Castle

Is The Traitors castle a real place?

Yes, absolutely. The castle featured in The Traitors is a very real place called Ardross Castle. It’s located in the beautiful Scottish Highlands, near the city of Inverness. So, all those dramatic scenes you see are filmed in a genuine, historic setting, which adds a lot to the show's atmosphere, you know.

Can you stay overnight at Ardross Castle?

You can stay overnight at Ardross Castle, but not in the way you might book a regular hotel room. It operates as an exclusive events venue. So, if you are attending a wedding, a corporate retreat, or another private event booked at the castle, then yes, you could potentially stay there as part of that arrangement. It's not open for casual overnight stays, basically.

Who owned Ardross Castle before the current owners?

Ardross Castle has had a few notable owners throughout its history. The current owners, the McTaggart family, acquired it in 1983. Before them, it passed through several hands, including the Matheson family, who were responsible for transforming it into the grand Scottish Baronial mansion we see today in the mid-19th century. Its history, you know, is quite rich with different families shaping its story.

So, as we’ve explored, the question of "who lives in The Traitors castle now?" has a few interesting answers. It’s not a single family in the traditional sense, but a dedicated team that keeps this grand estate running as a premier events venue. This ensures its preservation and allows many people to experience its beauty and history. It’s a very active place, full of life, even when the cameras are off. Learn more about Ardross Castle on our site, and link to this page .