CBeebies series Balamory returns today for 2026 revival

Balamory, which first aired in 2002 but was cancelled three years later, is making its grand return with some familiar faces returning alongside new ones.

The revival series, once again set in Scotland, was announced by the BBC in 2024 and is now set to air.

CBeebies series Balamory returns today for 2026 revival

Balamory was one of the most popular children’s shows of the early 2000s.

The story centres on a fictional small island community off the west coast of Scotland, dealing with community residents and their issues.

It celebrates friendship, co-operation and the importance of supporting one another, encouraging young people to think about how small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

The programme became famous for its catchy theme tune, which began with the line: “What’s the story in Balamory, wouldn’t you like to know?”

In 2022, the BBC celebrated 20 years of Balamory by uploading episodes of the programme to BBC iPlayer.

The two new series, which will include some of the original characters, will consist of 10 episodes each.

Who is returning in the new Balamory series?

The BBC shared a first look at the return of the Scottish children’s programme earlier this month.

The new series “retains the heart and humour that made Balamory a household favourite, while introducing refreshed storytelling and playful adventures”, the BBC said.

It adds: “The lovable community of quirky characters celebrate each day with rainbow-coloured comic adventures, filled with songs, friendship and fun.”

There are four returning characters that fans of the original series will recognise, these are:

• Julie Wilson Nimmo – Miss Hoolie
• Andrew Agnew – PC Plum
• Juliet Cadzow – Edie McCredie
• Kim Tserkezie – Penny Pocket

New characters are Danielle Jam as scientist and inventor Ava Potts, Carl Spencer as vet Dr Ollie and William Andrews as The Harbourmaster.

4 of the original cast are back for the Balamory revival with 3 new ones joining (Image: BBC)

How to watch the original Balamory episodes

There were more than 200 episodes of the original series, some of which can be watched on BBC iPlayer.

It was filmed in a town called Tobermory on the Isle of Mull in Scotland.

On the revival, Kate Morton, Senior Head of Commissioning for CBeebies, said: “Balamory holds a very special place in the hearts of families across the UK, so bringing it back after 21 years has been a real joy.

“It’s wonderful to welcome back beloved characters like Miss Hoolie, PC Plum and Penny Pocket, who have shaped so many childhoods, while also introducing a new generation of Balamory residents who bring fresh energy, humour and heart to the island.

“The spirit of curiosity, creativity and community that defined the original series remains at the core of this new chapter, and we can’t wait for young viewers and their grown‑ups to rediscover the magic of Balamory together.”

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How to watch the new series of Balamory

The Balamory revival series will air today, Monday, April 20.

It will be broadcast on CBeebies at 5pm, with all 10 episodes available on BBC iPlayer the same day.

Did you watch Balamory as a child? Let us know in the comments.