WITH the iconic children’s programme set to return to TV after two decades away, here's how you can stay in one of the most famous buildings from the show.
The BBC programme was originally produced between 2002 and 2005 and was mostly filmed in Tobermory in Mull, where the colourful buildings became synonymous with the kids' show.
The BBC announced on Tuesday that the fictional characters of Miss Hoolie, PC Plum and Josie Jump will return to TV screens with a new series of Balamory due to be aired in 2026.
With stories centred around a nursery school and their teacher, one of the most nostalgic buildings was Archie’s bright pink castle.
Fans of the TV programme will be thrilled to know that Archie’s castle is in fact Fenton Tower and that they can stay in the five-star hotel themselves.
Located just 18 miles east of Edinburgh, near North Berwick, the 16th century tower has been “meticulously restored” to provide luxury accommodation for up to 13 guests.
The castle is 50% powered by self-generated electricity and is surrounded by some of the world's most famous golf courses, including Muirfield and Gullane.
Fenton Tower is famous for not only being the home of Balamory’s Archie but also some of Scotland’s most historically famous names like King James VI of Scotland, the son of Mary Queen of Scots.
The tower's location was originally chosen because it afforded views in every direction, so that the occupants would have early warning of an attack, and the site has been home to a fortified tower since the 11th century.
There is even a medieval burial site and the remains of the foundations of one of the earliest Christian chapels in Scotland just north of the tower.
Now Fenton Tower offers five-bedroom suites, one twin bedroom and one single bedroom with historic decor of tapestries and suits of armor.
Prices start from £340.00 per room per night during the off-peak and rise to £450.00 per room per night during peak season.
Following the announcement on Tuesday, Kate Morton, head of commissioning 0-6 for BBC Children’s and Education, said the return of Balamory is a great way for those who grew up with the programme to introduce their little ones to the fictional world.
She said: “A whole new generation will discover and enjoy Balamory as we bring families together with this new update for CBeebies.
“It will be a real treat for parents who grew up with the show to now introduce their little ones to the brightly coloured world getting to know a host of old and new characters together.”
Further information and cast details for Balamory will be announced in due course, the BBC said.
