Alan Carr has clarified that his recently acquired Scottish castle is his permanent residence, disputing reports that he intends to convert the property into a hotel and spa while confirming limited plans to host a seasonal glamping experience on part of the estate.
The comedian and television personality, 50, purchased Ayton Castle in the Scottish Borders in February. Located between Edinburgh and Newcastle, the Grade A-listed property spans approximately 160 acres and includes 17 bedrooms and nine bathrooms. Since the purchase, media speculation suggested Carr planned to redevelop the estate into a hospitality business featuring hotel accommodations, leisure facilities, and a spa.
Speaking to The Mirror, Carr said the reports were inaccurate and explained that the castle serves as his full-time home.
“I have to pinch myself. The castle is great, brilliant. Everyone thinks it’s a gimmick – that’s the problem – but I am living there!”
“It’s really exciting. I love it up there. It’s got dog-friendly beaches, the people are lovely, it’s so nice.”
Carr said the reports generated unexpected responses from members of the public interested in working at what they believed would become a hotel operation.
“They said it would become a hotel with a leisure centre and spa when it’s actually my permanent home.”
“Now I’ve been sent lots of CVs from life guards and someone even gifted me a jacuzzi hot tub. But it’s Grade A listed so I’ve had to send it back!”
Rather than converting the castle into a commercial lodging property, Carr plans to retain the main residence for private use while opening a portion of the estate to guests for a limited glamping offering during the summer.
According to details shared on social media, the experience will feature five-meter cone-shaped tents accommodating up to four guests each, with nightly rates ranging from £140 to £160. Optional wellness activities, including sauna and cold-water sessions as well as guided movement classes, will also be available.
Carr announced the initiative through Instagram, inviting visitors to stay on the grounds for a limited period.
“Do you fancy a last minute summer escape? Well, I’ve got just the thing. I’m opening up my castle grounds to a few lovely guests. So if you fancy coming along, I’d love to have you. Links in bio, can’t wait to see you – Alan.”
The temporary glamping accommodations will be managed by events company Bell and Canvas Co., which will install the tents before guest arrivals.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality and glamping sectors, the project illustrates how high-profile private estates can generate supplemental tourism revenue through limited-duration accommodation experiences without permanently changing the property’s primary function.
Temporary glamping installations have become an increasingly common approach for landowners seeking to test visitor demand, diversify estate income, or activate underused land while preserving historic buildings that may be subject to strict heritage protections.
In cases involving listed properties, temporary and low-impact accommodations can offer greater operational flexibility than extensive redevelopment, although operators must continue to comply with local planning regulations, heritage requirements, and land-use restrictions.
Carr’s ownership of Ayton Castle is also expected to receive additional public attention through a forthcoming Disney+ series documenting renovation work at the estate. According to the report, the project will follow his efforts to transform the property into a luxury venue while maintaining it as his residence.
The purchase reportedly followed Carr’s appearance on Celebrity Traitors, filmed at Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands, where he was inspired by the experience of staying in a historic castle. The Ayton estate itself has a long history, having once served as a stronghold of the Home clan during the Middle Ages.
The current sandstone castle was constructed during the 19th century for William Mitchell, chief cashier at the Royal Bank of Scotland, after the original castle on the site was destroyed by fire. Mitchell acquired the estate in 1834.
Reflecting on his decision to purchase the property, Carr previously told The Daily Mail: “Some men when they have a midlife crisis buy a Lamborghini or grow a ponytail, but me – I want my very own castle.”