“We blew our budget last year so this time around we’re really getting creative.” That is how Banjo Beale greeted the news that “Grand Island Hotel” is coming back for a second series, The Highland Times reported on June 27, 2026.
The BBC confirmed that Banjo and his partner Ro are returning to the Isle of Ulva to carry on turning the long-neglected Ulva House into a boutique hotel. Filming is already underway. The new series of six episodes is expected to air on BBC Scotland, BBC Two and BBC iPlayer during 2027.
More animals, less money
The household has grown. Joining Banjo, Ro and Grampa the dog is a Scottish Deerhound puppy called Cousin Jerry, plus a collection of animals that now includes peacocks and a llama. Familiar faces from the island community are also expected back.
“The plans are bigger, and so is our family,” Banjo said. He promised “new puppies, peacocks, a llama and plenty of drama,” along with “bigger builds, hard work, lots of laughs” and a few mishaps.
Ro had a drier take. “Most people, after renovating a crumbling mansion on a remote island, would probably have a lie down,” he said. “Banjo looked at the situation and decided what we really needed was more animals, more projects and less money.” Every time he thinks they are nearly finished, he added, Banjo turns up with another sketch and says he has had an idea, “the four most dangerous words in my world.”
Keeping Banjo honest, Ro said, are Rhuri, the island ferryman, postman and “therapist,” and a neighbour called Barry, who is not afraid to share his opinion.
A hit first time round
The first series, according to the Highland Times report, became one of BBC iPlayer’s top ten lifestyle programmes of 2026. Louise Thornton, BBC Scotland’s Head of Commissioning, said audiences “adored being part of Banjo and Ro’s renovation story.” She said the BBC was delighted “to jump on the boat and revisit Ulva once again.”
“Although they faced their fair share of challenges, their vision was irresistible to watch,” Thornton added, “and they warmly welcomed audiences across the country into their home.”
The details here rest on the BBC’s own announcement as relayed by that one outlet. The BBC has not said when in 2027 the series will air.
