The return of Balamory has brought one of children’s television’s most recognisable communities back to screens, and with further filming taking place this summer. Following the launch of the new series on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer on 20 April 2026, production will resume between 21 July and 31 July as the team creates more stories from the much loved island setting.
The BBC’s revival has reunited audiences with familiar faces from the original series while introducing new characters who have become part of the next chapter of Balamory. The aim has been to preserve the warmth, humour, songs and community spirit that made the original programme so popular, while ensuring the series feels relevant for a new generation of preschool viewers.
Familiar faces return to the Balamory community
A major part of the revival’s appeal has been the return of several original cast members. Julie Wilson Nimmo returns as Miss Hoolie, one of the central figures from the original series. Andrew Agnew has also returned as PC Plum, alongside Kim Tserkezie as Penny Pocket and Juliet Cadzow as Edie McCredie.
Their return reconnects the revival with the Balamory audiences remember, preserving the warmth and charm that made the original series so popular.
Meet the new faces joining Balamory for 2026
While Balamory has welcomed back some of its best known residents, the new series has also expanded the community with fresh characters. Danielle Jam joins the cast as Ava Potts, Carl Spencer appears as Dr Ollie, and William Andrews takes on the role of the Harbourmaster.
The Harbourmaster
Keeping Balamory’s harbour running efficiently is no easy task, and the Harbourmaster often discovers that the day’s biggest challenge is avoiding another unexpected accident. His energetic, physical comedy regularly lands him in amusing situations, from becoming tangled in ropes and fishing gear to taking an unplanned dip in the water. A playful rivalry with PC Plum adds another layer of comedy, while his frequent visits to Penny’s café ensure he is never far from the centre of island life.
Ava Potts
Ava Potts carries on her family’s inventive spirit as Balamory’s creative problem solver. Her workshop is packed with everyday objects that she transforms into imaginative gadgets, proving that almost anything can inspire a new invention. Although many of her creations are more entertaining than practical, Ava’s enthusiasm and determination shine through every project. Confident and full of ideas, she also has moments of self-doubt, making her resilience and willingness to keep trying an inspiring example for young viewers.
Dr Ollie
Dr Ollie brings together his love of caring for animals with a passion for music, storytelling and performance. His veterinary practice is home to a colourful collection of animals, including the ever-popular Euan the elephant, whose playful antics often become part of the day’s adventures. As the father of Bonnie and Hamish, he is a familiar visitor at the nursery, where he enjoys sharing songs, fascinating animal facts and lively impressions with the children. While highly knowledgeable, his energetic personality can sometimes leave him delightfully distracted, creating plenty of humorous moments along the way.
The spirit of Balamory remains at the heart of the revival
Since its debut in 2002, Balamory has been remembered for its colourful setting, musical elements and gentle approach to storytelling. The fictional island became a place where children could explore everyday situations through imaginative adventures and learn important lessons about kindness, cooperation and curiosity.
Kate Morton, Senior Head of Commissioning for CBeebies, highlighted the importance of bringing the series back for families who already know and love Balamory while creating new memories for today’s children. The revival aims to connect generations through the shared experience of exploring the island and its stories.
Filming continues as Balamory enters a new chapter
The additional filming taking place from 21 July to 31 July 2026 shows the revival is continuing beyond its initial broadcast. The production team is returning to create more content from the island, allowing audiences to spend more time with both familiar and new characters.
Balamory’s return has brought together the nostalgia of the original series with the excitement of something new. With original cast members back in their much loved roles, new characters joining the community and further filming underway, the island continues to welcome viewers into its colourful world.
The next chapter of Balamory is now well underway, proving that the charm of the island community remains as strong as ever.
Balamory is available to watch now via BBC iPlayer.
