Banjo and Ro Return to Ulva for a Second Series of Grand Island Hotel

Viewers will once again be invited aboard one of Scotland’s most ambitious restoration projects after the BBC confirmed Banjo Beale and partner Ro are returning for a second series of Grand Island Hotel.

Filming is already underway on the Isle of Ulva, where the couple continue their remarkable journey to transform the long neglected Ulva House into a boutique hotel in one of the most remote and beautiful parts of the Highlands.

The first series captured the imagination of audiences as interior designer Banjo, his partner Ro and Grampa the dog embraced the realities of island life while tackling the enormous task of breathing new life into the historic mansion.

Now the adventure is set to continue.

This time the pair will be joined by a new addition to the family, Scottish Deerhound puppy Cousin Jerry, alongside a growing collection of animals that includes peacocks and even a llama, while familiar faces from the island community are also expected to return.

Banjo said:

“We’re so excited to be back.

“We blew our budget last year so this time around we’re really getting creative.

“The plans are bigger, and so is our family.

“As we continue the ambitious restoration of Ulva House, we’ll be welcoming new puppies, peacocks, a llama and plenty of drama.

“Life on a remote island is never straightforward, but that’s exactly what makes it such an adventure.

“There’ll be big dreams, bigger builds, hard work, lots of laughs and, you can bet, a few mishaps along the way.”

Ro added:

“Most people, after renovating a crumbling mansion on a remote island, would probably have a lie down.

“Banjo looked at the situation and decided what we really needed was more animals, more projects and less money.

“So naturally we’ve got grand plans to finish the hotel and somehow, even more hare-brained schemes I’ve yet to sign off on.

“Every time I think we’re nearly finished, Banjo appears with another sketch and says, ‘I’ve had an idea.’

“The four most dangerous words in my world.

“Thankfully I have Rhuri, the island ferryman, postman and therapist keeping him honest and our neighbour Barry who’s not afraid to share his opinion.

“It’s a wild ride and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

The first series proved a hit with audiences, becoming one of BBC iPlayer’s top ten lifestyle programmes of 2026 and introducing viewers across the UK to the challenges and rewards of life on a small Hebridean island.

BBC Scotland Head of Commissioning Louise Thornton said audiences had embraced Banjo and Ro’s story from the outset.

She said:

“Audiences adored being part of Banjo and Ro’s renovation story and we’re delighted to jump on the boat and revisit Ulva once again for more Grand Island Hotel adventures.

“Although they faced their fair share of challenges, their vision was irresistible to watch and they warmly welcomed audiences across the country into their home.”

The new six part series is expected to air on BBC Scotland, BBC Two and BBC iPlayer during 2027, giving viewers another chance to follow a uniquely Highland story of restoration, resilience and big dreams on a tiny island.

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Joseph Kennedy
Joseph Kennedy
Joseph Kennedy is a senior writer and editor at The Highland Times. He covers politics, business, and community affairs across the Highlands and Islands. His reporting focuses on stories that matter to local people while placing them in a wider national and international context.
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