Enter the world of sealed envelopes, candlelit halls, betrayals in stately gardens, and secret alliances. If you’re captivated by the dramatic ambience of The Traitors UK (particularly the scenes set in the eerie grandeur of Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands), why not turn that fascination into a truly British travel experience? Although the castle itself is not open for public tours and is usually reserved for private events or weddings, the UK is dotted with magnificent castles and palaces that you can visit, including many accessible from London via Evan Evans tours!
The iconic inspiration: Ardross Castle & the Scottish Highlands
Although most of the gameplay for The Traitors UK unfolds inside Ardross Castle, a grand 19th-century estate about 25–30 miles north of Inverness in the Scottish Highlands, the castle itself remains a private venue for weddings and corporate events. Casual tourists can admire glimpses of the estate from nearby public roads or explore the charming Highland setting near Alness, the small town closest to the filming site. For many fans, Inverness makes an atmospheric base for a Traitors-themed Highland adventure, with nearby attractions like Loch Glass, Glen Affric, and historic ruins adding to the mystique.
Castles and Palaces you can visit
Edinburgh Castle
Our furthest castle but always worth the trip north of the border into Scotland to the Scottish capital! Set in the heart of the charming and historic city, it’s hard to miss Edinburgh Castle – a 1,100 year old fortress built on Castle Rock, a long-extinct volcano. You’ll discover the long, bloody history of the castle, walk in the footsteps of Scottish royalty as you climb Castle Hill to see the Stone of Destiny – a sacred object used in the coronation of Scottish and later British monarchs.
Even though Ardross Castle can’t be toured, there are dozens of dramatic castles and palaces the UK welcomes visitors to, with many reachable on a day trip from London.
Windsor Castle: a royal stronghold near London
Home to over 40 monarchs since the 11th century, Windsor Castle is one of the most visited castles in Britain and one of the King’s official residences. Explore grand state rooms, stunning staircases and the architectural marvel of St George’s Chapel – the final resting place of Elizabeth II, Henry VIII and others. The perfect trip for those who love all things royal!
Hampton Court Palace: a Tudor playground
Technically a palace, Hampton Court is brimming with Tudor intrigue that give it a true castle feel. Explore the home of the Tudor monarchs, including Henry VIII, with historic kitchens, vast great hall and winding corridors – the perfect location for plots, betrayal and royal conflict.
Kensington Palace & Buckingham Palace: London’s own
Both palaces are fantastic examples of the enduring power and pageantry of the British Monarchy, with the smaller Kensington Palace giving a glimpse of personal royal lives and Buckingham Palace symbolising ceremonial might with the renowned balcony a key memory for those of us who have seen a Royal Wedding or Coronation in our lives. Closed for the winter, you’ll be able to visit the lush Buckingham Palace in the summer when they open to the public – featuring 19 magnificent state rooms which are the setting for ceremonial occasions and official entertaining for members of the Royal Family in one of the few working royal palaces in the world today.
Further afield, but worth the trip
With so many castles across the UK, it’s hard to narrow down the list – below you’ll find a selection of castles and palaces that are a little further afield but well worth the trip, especially for those wanting their castle fill ahead of the new series.
Leeds Castle
Known as the ‘Loveliest Castle in the World’, Leeds Castle is a medieval masterpiece surrounded by picturesque grounds. With a history spanning over 900s years, it sits amongst 500 acres of stunning parkland and is known for its connection to several Tudor and Medieval queens who considered the castle their private retreat.
Warwick Castle
A medieval castle with over a thousand years of history, you’ll be enthralled by its majestic rooms, towers and grounds, all set against the River Avon. It’s more militaristic feel is owed to it beginning as an impressive fortress at the time of William the Conqueror before evolving to a military stronghold and now a grand residence. Discover the Great Hall, State Rooms, and dungeons to get a glimpse into the castles opulence and challenges.
Blenheim Palace
Nestled in the enchanting English county of Oxfordshire, you’ll discover the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Blenheim Palace, the birthplace and childhood home of Winston Churchill. Brimming with opulent architecture and lush landscapes, stroll through the lavishly decorated State Rooms filled with stunning art and discover the horticultural marvel of the meticulously designed formal gardens.
While the mist-covered halls of Ardross Castle remain behind closed gates for most visitors, the UK offers dozens of places that evoke the dramatic spirit of The Traitors, from Tudor intrigue to medieval cunning. With Evan Evans, you can visit castles and palaces that reveal centuries of British strategy, betrayal, and glory. Whether you’re sitting in the Great Hall of Windsor Castle or wandering Henry VIII’s kitchens at Hampton Court, you’ll be walking through stories that feel as layered and cunning as any Traitors episode!
