Bake Off stars to 'isolate at luxury hotel' as TV bosses aren't taking chances

The stars of the Great British Bake Off are reportedly set to isolate at a luxurious hotel in Hertfordshire ahead of filming for the upcoming series.

Despite the gradual easing of lockdown restrictions, Channel 4 producers aren't taking any chances and will be making sure all the stars undergo testing as they form a social bubble.

It comes almost one year after Channel 4 pulled off an impressive season in the middle of a pandemic, that saw Peter Sawkins become the youngest winner ever.

An insider speaking to The Sun explained that Prue Leith, Paul Hollywood, Matt Lucas, and Noel Fielding are all expected to form a bubble at the fancy Down Hall Hotel & Spa.

Producers aren't taking any chances with the upcoming production and want to make sure everyone is extra safe before filming begins in July.

The Great British Bake Off stars are going to be isolating at a lavish hotel ahead of filming (Channel 4)

“Although many of the rules and regulations that made filming difficult are now easing, the producers of the show wanted to be extra cautious," the source said.

“Lockdown is still set to fully lift next month, but changing events could mean that doesn’t happen, or restrictions that have recently eased could be brought back into force.

The insider added: “But this covers them for any eventuality — it also means they’ll enjoy a rather nice retreat too.”

Last year's winner was Peter Sawkins - the show's youngest ever champion (CHANNEL 4/Love Productions)

The tents where GBBO is filmed are also located on the grounds of the Hertfordshire hotel (Love Productions)

A representative for Channel 4 has been approached by The Mirror for further comment.

It's not the first time that the cast of GBBO has attended the 98-bedroom luxury hotel and spa, which was used as the location for last year's show as well.

The grounds of the swanky hotel are also the location where the tents are erected to house the GBBO contestants during the baking challenges.

Earlier this month, GBBO star Matt Lucas also teased further details about this year's setup and even suggested that some of the baking hopefuls were absolutely 'brilliant'.

Speaking on Lorraine earlier in May, the comedian and presenter said: "We’re starting [filming] very soon. And like last year we’re going into a bubble. All self-isolating and getting tested.

"And then we’re going into a Covid-free bubble, so we can all taste each other's bakes and there can be handshakes and all sorts."

Matt added: "I’ve seen the video clips of all the new bakers and there’s some brilliant ones in there."

Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033