Comedian Alan Carr Secures Scottish Castle for New Disney+ Series
Comedian Alan Carr, who famously triumphed as the ultimate Traitor in the first Celebrity Traitors series filmed at Ardross Castle, has now made a monumental real-life purchase. The Mail on Sunday reveals that Carr has acquired the stunning Ayton Castle in Berwickshire for £3.25 million, marking a dramatic shift from his television persona to becoming a castle owner in the picturesque Scottish countryside.
From Traitor to Faithful: A New Chapter Begins
After winning Celebrity Traitors in November last year, which propelled his career to new global heights, Carr, 49, has chosen Ayton Castle as his new home. The Gothic Revival-style property boasts an impressive 17 bedrooms, nine bathrooms, eight public rooms, a private chapel, and sprawling 106-acre gardens. Rumours suggest Carr fell in love with the castle while passing it on the East Coast railway line during trips to Edinburgh, where he traditionally spends Hogmanay with friend Amanda Holden.
Disney+ Documentary Series in Development
Disney+ is set to produce a documentary series following Carr's journey from castle acquisition through ambitious renovation to managing it as a working stately home. Produced by Expectation, the award-winning company behind Clarkson's Farm, the project has the working title 'Castle Man'. Executive producer Ben Wicks expressed excitement about documenting Carr's "dramatic – and undoubtedly hilarious – journey" as he navigates the challenges of castle ownership.
Community Engagement and Local Concerns
Initial plans to hold a public meeting at the local bowling club were scrapped when it became clear the venue couldn't accommodate expected attendance. Instead, Disney+ agents approached Ayton Parish Church, where session clerk Susan Patterson agreed to host the gathering. Patterson, who enjoyed Celebrity Traitors, noted that while locals were initially concerned about potential restrictions to castle grounds access, most now view Carr's arrival positively.
Local sentiment appears largely welcoming, with one anonymous resident commenting: "There's nothing negative about Alan in the village. At first, you wondered if he was going to turn it into Disneyland. But I think he just wants somewhere nice to live."
Historical Significance and Economic Impact
Ayton Castle, completed in 1846 to designs by noted Scottish architect James Gillespie Graham, holds A-listed status requiring careful preservation oversight from Historic Environment Scotland. The property's history includes a tragic fire in 1834 that destroyed the original mansion, forcing the Fordyce family abroad while retaining repurchase rights.
The renovation project promises significant economic benefits for Berwickshire, creating jobs for local decorators, carpenters, stonemasons, and gardeners. Even Ayton Parish Church, which currently holds Sunday services just twice monthly for 20-30 worshippers, could see renewed interest through potential documentary coverage.
Carr's Personal Connection to the Property
In his characteristic humorous style, Carr explained his motivation: "Some men when they have a midlife crisis buy a Lamborghini or grow a ponytail. But me, I want my very own castle." He described lifelong fascination with stately homes, adding: "As I turn 50, I feel it's time. All I want is a turret to call my own."
The castle's Latin motto 'Deo Favente' (With God's Favour) seems particularly apt as Carr seeks divine assistance in winning over locals. With Disney+ documenting every step and the community largely receptive, the Chatty Man appears poised to create his own Scottish haven, blending celebrity lifestyle with historic preservation in what promises to be compelling television viewing.
