Balamory returning to screens on CBeebies and iPlayer

The BBC has shared a first look at the new Balamory series, coming to CBeebies and iPlayer this month.

The Scottish children’s programme first aired in 2002 and centres on a fictional small island community off the west coast of Scotland, dealing with community residents and their issues.

It was cancelled in 2005, but a revival series was announced by the BBC in 2024, which is set to air in the coming weeks.

BBC shares first look at Balamory revival series as old cast return

The BBC has now unveiled first-look images of the new series, with the return of some familiar faces as well as new ones.

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.”

Julie Wilson Nimmo is back as Miss Hoolie, who runs the Balamory Nursery.

She is described as “playful and creative” and “loves joining in with the children’s games”.

She is especially close to PC Plum, “celebrating his quirks with fondness”.

Andrew Agnew is also back as PC Plum, who is Balamory’s “friendly police officer” and “takes his role very seriously, despite the fact there’s no real crime on the island”.

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

The BBC said: “With a childlike sense of wonder and a knack for leaping to the wrong conclusion, PC Plum brings slapstick charm to every episode, whether forming a one-man band or hunting for imaginary volcanoes.”

The third returning star is Juliet Cadzow as Edie McCredie, who runs her own delivery service and is a “skilled mechanic and seasoned traveller”.

She also captains her boat, the Sea Dasher, and acts as a “modern grandparent figure”.

The final star back is Kim Tserkezie as Penny Pocket, who runs Balamory’s shop and café while “juggling an impressive list of side hustles, from sports coaching to party planning”.

She ran the village shop with Suzie Sweet, played by Mary Riggans, who died in 2013.

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

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.

The new series, like the original, was once again filmed 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.”

Recommended reading:

When is Balamory back on CBeebies and iPlayer?

Balamory will air on CBeebies from Monday, April 20, at 5pm.

All episodes of the new series will be available on BBC iPlayer on the same day.

Did you watch the original series of Balamory back in the early 2000s? Let us know in the comments.