Searching online for B&B by the Sea more than likely brings up a list of Bed and Breakfasts, but there is soon to be aired a 15-part series of BBC programmes with that title. It is billed as “ A unique hideaway on Northern Ireland’s spectacular coastline where famous faces explore the delights of the sea, acquire new skills and are welcomed into the B&B team”.

Belfast Live reports that “host Sharon McIlveen, gardener Mary Anne Farenden, driver Rory O’Kane - who has extensive knowledge of the local area - and Michelin-starred chef Alex Greene are on hand to welcome celebrity guests to the B&B.”

The B&B is in Castlerock, a small seaside village on the North Coast and part of the Causeway Coast and Glens district. It is close to the Belfast to Derry railway line, Mussenden Temple - built in 1785 by Frederick, 4th Earl of Bristol, who served as the Church of Ireland Lord Bishop of Derry from 1768 until 1803, and Downhill Beach.

Among the celebrities taking part will be ex-England and Harlequins rugby union star and Strictly Come Dancing contestant Ugo Monye.

Ugo Monye (right) paddleboarding

Belfast Live continues, “But with his adventurous spirit, Ugo was eager to get stuck in with all the challenges the B&B team threw at him during his time in Northern Ireland”. His first stop was a fishing trip in the cold Northern Atlantic waters to bring home the catch of the day for Alex to prepare a delicious scallop stew for dinner. He then tried stand up paddleboarding - he had to quickly master a watersport that people have been practising for centuries in just one morning”.

Eddie Doyle, Head of Content Commissioning, BBC Northern Ireland, says: “I’m thrilled that B&B By The Sea has been announced which promises to show off the beautiful coast of Northern Ireland.

Other guests include world traveller Si King, Gloria Hunniford OBE, a television presenter formerly from Northern Ireland and Deborah Meaden of Dragons’ Den fame. Dancer and Strictly Come Dancing judge, Shirley Ballas stars in the first episode this Friday 25th November at 7.30pm on BBC 1 Northern Ireland.

Shirley Ballas Photo: BBC