Traitors Stars' Humble Hotel Hideaway Hit by Harsh Guest Critiques
While the hit BBC series The Traitors films its dramatic scenes within the grand Ardross Castle, the reality behind the scenes is far less glamorous for its contestants. Instead of resting in the gothic fortress, the stars are transported to a budget hotel that has recently come under fire from disgruntled guests.
A Stark Contrast to Castle Luxury
The Courtyard by Marriott Inverness Airport hotel, located approximately 40 minutes from the picturesque castle, serves as the accommodation for cast and crew during filming. Priced at just £53 per person per night, this no-frills establishment is a far cry from the candlelit hallways viewers associate with the show. Notably, host Claudia Winkleman is believed to reside separately near the castle, while others make the nightly journey back to the hotel.
Scathing Reviews Highlight Serious Issues
Despite holding an average four-star rating, the hotel has attracted dozens of brutal reviews from travellers. Guests have described the experience as "third world" and urged others to avoid it if possible. Key complaints include:
- Repeated cleanliness failures, such as hair on floors and bedding, mould in showers, and unclean surfaces.
- Faulty shower drains causing water to pool around feet, leading to unpleasant bathing conditions.
- Disorganised restaurant service with limited seating, requiring advance bookings and offering no guarantees on tables or food delivery.
One reviewer summarised: "This place is only suitable for a single night if your flight gets delayed or cancelled — and even then, brace yourself." Another added: "You spend the night in a stuffy, stinking room. There was no chance of sleeping, never again."
Behind the Scenes of The Traitors
An insider revealed that Marriott hotels are used for both UK and US versions of The Traitors, with all stars, including glamorous reality TV personalities and wealthy public figures, staying at the same affordable chain hotel. A source commented: "People would be shocked if they knew. Everyone assumes they’re treated like royalty inside the castle, and that couldn’t be further from the truth." The cast is required to maintain the illusion of castle stays, with strict rules in place to preserve show secrets.
Strict Rules Govern Contestant Behaviour
Contestants on The Traitors must adhere to ten strict rules, covering both on-camera actions and off-camera conduct. Key regulations include:
- No knowledge of time, with clocks banned from the castle and hotel rooms.
- Prohibition of mobile phones or laptops to prevent external communication.
- Mandatory escorting to individual lodgings after filming, with no unauthorised interactions between players.
Former contestant Maddy Smedley from series one shared that participants are blindfolded during transport to keep the hotel location secret, stating: "You aren't allowed to know where you are staying. It's about a 30-minute drive from the castle but you're blindfolded as you approach." Contracts ensure spoilers are avoided until after the series airs.
All episodes of The Traitors are available for streaming on BBC iPlayer, offering fans a glimpse into the high-stakes game, albeit with a less luxurious backdrop than imagined.
