Comedian Alan Carr has addressed speculation surrounding his recent purchase of a £3.2 million Scottish castle, clarifying that the property, Ayton Castle, is his permanent home and not slated to become a hotel or spa. Carr, who acquired the 160-acre estate in February, said he has been taken aback by news reports detailing potential hotel and leisure facilities.
"Everyone thinks it's a gimmick - that's the problem - but I am living there!" Carr told The Mirror. "It's really exciting. I love it up there. It's got dog-friendly beaches, the people are lovely, it's so nice."
Carr, 50, purchased the castle after his win on "Celebrity Traitors," a show filmed at Ardross Castle in the Highlands. He stated that after his initial purchase, he was surprised by reports suggesting the castle would become a hotel with a leisure center and spa. He noted that he has received numerous job applications, including for lifeguards, and even a gifted jacuzzi, which he had to return due to the castle's Grade A listed status.
Instead of a commercial venture, Carr plans to use a portion of the 160-acre grounds for glamping for a few weeks during the summer. He announced the glamping experience on social media, inviting guests to his "lovely home." The glamping packages, offered in partnership with events firm Bell and Canvas Co, will accommodate up to four people per tent and include amenities such as a sauna and guided movement classes. Prices range from £140 to £160 per night.
Carr, who is selling his home in the south of England, expressed his hope of finding love in the village of Ayton, which has a population of approximately 600. His experience transforming the castle is being documented for the streaming channel Disney+.
The Ayton estate has historical significance, having been a stronghold of the Home clan in the Middle Ages. The current sandstone castle structure was built in the 19th century for William Mitchell, chief cashier at the Royal Bank of Scotland, after the original castle burned down. Mitchell purchased the estate in 1834.
Carr described his decision to buy the castle as a response to a midlife crisis, humorously contrasting it with more conventional choices like buying a Lamborghini or growing a ponytail.