Beloved Children’s Programme & Tobermory Tourism
Balamory was a cherished children’s television programme, a staple of preschool viewing across the UK, that aired on the BBC from 2002 to 2005 and returned on 20th April 2026. The show followed gentle adventures in a colourful Scottish island community, with each episode beginning with the question “Which coloured house are we going to?”
Show Overview
Set in the fictional island community of Balamory, the programme featured eight main characters, each living in a distinctively coloured house. The educational show focused on problem-solving, community cooperation, and everyday adventures suitable for young children.
With its catchy theme song, bright visuals, and positive messages, Balamory quickly became one of the BBC’s most successful preschool programmes of its era.
Balamory is back
Balamory returned on 20th April 2026, more than twenty years after the original run (2nd September 2002 to 29th June 2005: four series and 254 episodes). Series 5 and 6 are confirmed, and series 7 and 8 were commissioned on 28th May 2026. Miss Hoolie, PC Plum, Penny Pocket and Edie McCredie are back, joined by new characters including Ava Potts, Dr Ollie and the Harbourmaster.
Filming Locations: Tobermory, Isle of Mull
Balamory was filmed in Tobermory, the capital of the Isle of Mull in the Inner Hebrides. The town’s naturally colourful harbourfront buildings provided the perfect backdrop without needing set construction.
Iconic Locations:
- Park Lodge, Tobermory: Josie Jump’s house (yellow), a small hotel. Miss Hoolie’s nursery scenes were filmed in Glasgow.
- Fenton Tower, near North Berwick in East Lothian: Archie’s castle, now a hotel (it is not in Tobermory)
- The harbourfront: where the characters often met
Tourism Impact
Balamory significantly increased tourism to Tobermory and the Isle of Mull. Fans, both children and adults, visit to see the filming locations and experience the Scottish island charm.
Visitor Experiences:
- Photography: capturing the colourful houses
- Family activities: exploring the island that inspired Balamory
Isle of Mull Tourism
Beyond Balamory locations, the Isle of Mull offers:
Natural Beauty:
- Dramatic coastlines and sea views
- Wildlife spotting: eagles, otters, seals
- Walking trails through stunning landscapes
- Beaches with white sand and clear water
Cultural Attractions:
- Mull Museum: island history and heritage
- Local crafts: pottery, textiles, artwork
- Traditional music: ceilidhs and performances
Planning Your Visit
Getting There:
Tobermory is accessible by ferry from Oban to Craignure, then a 45-minute drive. CalMac operates regular ferry services.
Best Time to Visit:
Spring through autumn offers best weather. Summer has longest days but more visitors.
Accommodation:
Tobermory offers B&Bs, hotels, and self-catering cottages. Book well in advance for summer.
Family-Friendly Activities:
- Balamory location hunting: find all the coloured houses
- Boat trips: wildlife watching tours
- Beach exploration: Calgary Bay is particularly beautiful
- Short walks: suitable for young children
Balamory’s Legacy
Though the original run ended in 2005, before the show returned in 2026, its legacy continues:
Educational Value:
Balamory taught problem-solving, community values, and Scottish culture to a generation.
Tourism Boost:
Created sustained interest in Scottish island tourism.
Cultural Impact:
Introduced many to Scottish geography, architecture, and community life.
Balamory remains a beloved part of Scottish cultural heritage, connecting television entertainment with real Scottish locations. Visiting Tobermory offers both Balamory nostalgia and authentic Scottish island experience.
Visiting Tobermory respectfully
The colourful houses are people’s homes and cannot be looked around, though residents mostly welcome photographs taken from outside. Please be considerate of the people who live there.