I'm a Celeb castle eyes 1am music events and a Russell Watson return

Gwrych Castle, near Abergele, which hosted ITV's I'm A Celebrity in 2020 and 2021, has applied to Conwy County Borough Council for a premises licence variation.

The Gwrych Castle Preservation Trust, which purchased the imposing Gothic ruin in 2018, has requested permission to play live music indoors and outdoors from 10am to 1am on Saturdays and Sundays. They are also seeking approval for recorded music and other performances similar to live music, recorded music, or dance - indoors or outdoors - during the same hours.

The application states there would be no more than four daytime musical events per year, each with a capacity of more than 500 people.

The trust say the application is part of their ambition to welcome Watson back to the castle for a special classical concert - an event that would be made possible through the proposed variation to the castle’s existing premises licence.

Russell Watson with Lloyd who is a resident of the castle grounds! Image: Josh RyanA spokesperson for the trust said: "Russell Watson was one of the stars of ITV’s 2020 series of I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here! which was famously based at Gwrych Castle for two consecutive years during the Covid-19 pandemic.

"His return for a live performance would celebrate that shared history and offer a truly memorable evening for audiences in North Wales.

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"The variation, currently under review by Conwy County Borough Council, would allow the castle to host up to four large-scale daytime events per year with attendance exceeding 500 guests - bringing it in line with other local venues locally."

Speaking about the possibility of returning to Gwrych Castle, Russell Watson said: “Gwrych Castle holds a very special place in my heart after filming I’m A Celebrity there. The thought of returning to perform in such a spectacular setting would be incredible.

"I’d love to be part of bringing live music and culture to this iconic place once again.”

Watson was a contestant on the 2020 series of I'm a Celeb. He entered the castle alongside Ruthie Henshall as a late addition to the show.

The castle spokesperson added: "Gwrych Castle has a strong track record of hosting inclusive, well-managed events that support heritage, community engagement, and the local economy.

“Whether it’s classical concerts or Cliff Richard, being able to host just four large-scale events a year would be a huge cultural and economic boost for the region."

Gwrych Castle is a Grade I listed country house which was built between 1812 and 1822.

The castle is currently open every day until the end of August. Visit: www.gwrychcastle.co.uk for full details.