Overview

• Filming on the third civilian series at Ardross Castle concluded in early July despite a record surge of ticks, midges and mosquitoes that forced crew to wear protective nets.
• Prolonged heatwaves in the Scottish Highlands fueled an unprecedented insect outbreak that production described as a “nightmare” for cast and crew health.
• The BBC has greenlit a nine-part celebrity edition for autumn 2025 featuring Stephen Fry, Ruth Codd, Celia Imrie, Tameka Empson, Mark Bonnar, Jonathan Ross, Clare Balding, Kate Garraway, Tom Daley, Joe Marler, David Olusoga and Niko Omilana.
• Claudia Winkleman is confirmed to return as host for both the upcoming celebrity spin-off and the next civilian installment.
• A fourth civilian season is slated for early 2026 as the format expands following strong ratings and global social media buzz.