Time to chat! Residents host meeting to discuss how filming for major TV show could impact village
Last updated 5th Mar 2026
Speculation is mounting that comedian Alan Carr has bought a castle in the Scottish Borders which he plans to transform into a luxury hotel and spa for an upcoming TV show.
Disney+ revealed in January they were working with the Celebrity Traitors star on a new series called Castle Man - inspired by the title of his Channel 4 chat show, Chatty Man.
And last month it was confirmed Ayton Castle, near Eyemouth - which had been advertised for sale at offers over £3,250,000 - has been sold.
Now, the production team are planning to meet residents to discuss how filming for the major global streaming service could impact the tiny Berwickshire village, which has a population of just over 600 people.
The event is being held in the local bowling club on Wednesday, March 18th, from 6.30pm.
However, the venue only holds a maximum of 120 people, and organisers are advising admission is on a first-come first-served basis.
READ MORE: Center Parcs first holiday village in Scotland clears final planning hurdle
One of the questions being raised concerns whether locals will still be able to access the castle grounds for walking following the change of ownership.
A post shared on the village Facebook page says: "They (the production team) will be answering questions regarding the Disney+ TV show and how it will impact the village."
But it adds: "Please note Alan Carr WILL NOT be in attendance at this meeting."
READ MORE: Stuart Hogg stripped of MBE following domestic abuse conviction
The reality show is being produced by Expectation, the same company which is behind Clarkson’s Farm on Prime Video.
In the official release promoting the show, Sean Doyle, vice president (unscripted) at Disney+, said: “Alan Carr is one of those rare talents who brings instant warmth, wit, and originality to everything he touches.
"We’ve watched him turn his hand to stand-up,gameshows, podcast, and presenting, but when we discovered he was looking to purchase a castle to run, we knew this was a journey we had to follow.
"Expect Alan in new territory, with all the same riotous entertainment you know and love.”
Carr - who turns 50 in June - added: "Some men when they have a midlife crisis buy a Lamborghini or grow a ponytail, but me - I want my very own castle.
"Since I was a boy in Northampton, I’ve always dreamt big, and have always been enchanted with the history and romance of a stately home and as I turn fifty, I feel it’s my time. All I want is a turret to call my own - get me over that drawbridge!”
READ MORE: Care home fined following death of resident given 'unsafe' food
Ayton Castle is widely regarded as one of Scotland’s finest baronial-style homes.
Set in extensive grounds at the edge of the village, the red sandstone building boasts 17 bedrooms, nine bathrooms, and its own miniature railway.
“News of Mr Carr’s purchase of the castle has been largely positive,” said Trevor Smith, secretary of Ayton Community Council.
“We live in a beautiful village and national recognition of this is welcomed. Many people hope it will result in further investment in the village, particularly the pub, having been closed for over a year now.
“We are a very welcoming community and there are many who look forward to meeting the man himself in due course."
For more stories from the Scottish Borders and North Northumberland, bookmark our home page - https://hellorayo.co.uk/greatest-hits/borders/news/