I’m A Celebrity FIRST LOOK: Fans get a glimpse of revamped Gwrych Castle

I’m A Celebrity fans have been given their first glimpse of the revamped Gwrych Castle, as it becomes the setting for the much-anticipated new series, which will begin next month.

After weeks of builders working round-the-clock to restore the crumbling Welsh landmark, the finishing touches are being added to the site, with plenty of new additions to accommodate the freezing November weather, including a vast heating system to keep the camp warm and toasty.

I’m A Celebrity was relocated to Wales this year after it became clear the show could not be filmed in Australia due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and will see a brand new celebrity lineup face gruelling challenges to be crowned champion.

According to The Sun, bosses have ensured the new series won’t be any easier for the celebrities, especially as they will have to battle the chilly autumn climes alongside the daily perils of camp life.

The castle will act as the basis for several different task areas for an array of different trials, while there is also a viewpoint for hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly to offer their usual comedic side views.

While the celebrities will still be able to visit the Bush Telegraph to let off steam or recall the day’s events, they’ll have to venture outside to use the toilet.

One major change for this series comes surrounding the camp itself, as usually the stars will sleep outside in the warm Australian jungle.

However, given this series will see them battling the freezing Welsh temperatures, the castle has seen the introduction of a vast heating system, while bosses have also reportedly splashed out on a selection of insulating clothing, sleeping bags, camping equipment, and foil blankets to prevent heat loss.

While it’s hoped this will keep the stars warm and toasty, given the show’s gruelling premise it’s likely to keep the camp habitable at best. 

A source told the publication: ‘The bosses still want the whole experience to be a gruelling challenge, so they’ve taken the toughest elements of the show Down Under and transported them lock, stock and barrely over here.

‘You can see the basic facilities are being reproduced within the walls of Gwrych – other than the toilet, which sadistic producers look like they’ve place outside the building, just to expose the stars to the elements even more.

‘But it’s proved to be a mammoth task for ITV, with workmen on site night and day to ensure the set is ready in time for the show starting next month.’

MailOnline has contacted representatives for I’m A Celebrity for further comment. 

One noticeable absence for the new series will be I’m A Celebrity veteran Medic Bob, who is unable to travel to the UK due to travel restrictions introduced Down Under. 

It’s thought this years celebrities will isolate in a hotel for two weeks before they enter the castle camp to ensure the series is as COVID-safe as possible.

Bosses have also confirmed the series will still go ahead despite the introduction as a national lockdown in Wales.

A slew of stars have been rumoured to be taking part in the new series, including presenter Vernon Kay, Strictly Come Dancing pro AJ Pritchard and former EastEnders star Jessica Plummer.

It’s also been claimed that broadcaster Victoria Derbyshire has signed up for the series, after being unable to take part in previous years due to the lengthy time she’d be away from loved ones in Australia.

A source told The Sun: ‘Victoria is always game for a challenge so when she was approached for I’m A Celebrity she jumped at the chance.

‘It’s always something she’s wanted to do but because of her family she’s never wanted to fly to Australia and be away from them for so long.

‘When the show moved to Wales and the opportunity came up, she didn’t want to look a gift horse in the mouth so said yes straight away.’

It was also reported that the endurance reality show could be filmed in the UK for another two years if the pandemic restrictions remain in place.  

Earlier this month it was claimed crew members had to spend a weekend drying out Gwrych Castle after it became flooded when it was battered by torrential rain. 

While the weather appears to have gotten better, contestants are likely to have a tough three weeks ahead of them during their stay as more bad weather has been predicted for the area. 

A huge crane and various crew vehicles are also still on site as the production team continue to work hard to get the new set ready in time for a November air date. 

An array of large tents have been set up along the perimeter of the set, which seemed to be a good spot for staff to hide away if the weather took another turn for the worse.

While the studio area remained covered for when the show begins filming, the castles many turrets and halls are still uncovered despite the recent floods.