The BBC has commissioned another two series of the children’s TV show Balamory following its return to screens after more than two decades.
In 2024, the BBC announced it was bringing back the beloved programme, which is set on a fictional Scottish island and follows its residents.
Labelled the “world’s first soap for pre-school children”, it initially ran for four series from 2002 before being cancelled three years later.
It made its comeback last month, with the first episode launching to 1.5 million viewers in 28 days – becoming the biggest new CBeebies episode of 2026 so far.
Kate Morton, senior head of commissioning at CBeebies, said: “Balamory has always been about community, creativity and helping children understand the world around them.
“Seeing it return and connect so strongly with audiences, both those discovering it for the first time and those who remember it so fondly, has been incredibly special.
“This recommission is a testament to the enduring power of children’s media to make lasting memories and promote kindness, inclusion and togetherness.”
Head of Lion Television Scotland Lisa Hazlehurst said: “We are thrilled to be able to dream up more adventures for the Balamory gang following the wonderful response to the reboot.
“At Lion Scotland we believe there is something truly magical about seeing real people sharing adventures in one of the most beautiful settings on the planet.
“Balamory reminds children that kindness and teamwork can solve even the trickiest problems with a little imagination and a healthy dollop of humour. We should all be a bit more Balamory.”
When Balamory’s return was announced in 2024, Morton said it would be a “real treat for parents who grew up with the show”, who could “now introduce their little ones to the brightly coloured world, getting to know a host of old and new characters together”.
The original cast included Julie Wilson Nimmo as nursery school teacher Miss Hoolie, Miles Jupp as Archie the inventor, Andrew Agnew as Pc Plum, and Kim Tserkezie as Penny Pocket.
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?”
It was broadcast across Europe, Australia, Hong Kong, Canada and South Africa.
In 2022 the BBC celebrated 20 years of the series by releasing the old episodes on BBC iPlayer.
Balamory is streaming on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer. Series two will air later this year.
