Stoney Starter

Originally trained in sculpture, Paul Hollywood turned to bread making and pastry in grand hotels; before displaying a talent for TV. As well as closely inspecting contestants’ soggy bottoms, he has also shown off his own pies and puddings. After dinner Paul admits how he and ‘Bezza’ pine for a post show take-away.

Baking Beginning

Although Paul trained as a sculptor, he was drawn to the family baking business at 17. After serving his apprenticeship he joined The Chester Grosvenor Hotel as Head Baker before moving to The Dorchester and started to build a reputation as one of the UK’s best artisan bakers.

Paul Hollywood TV Career

After a period working at hotels outside the UK he returned. Becoming a regular on cookery and food shows including: Richard and Judy, This Morning and Ready Steady Cook; where he specialised in traditional bread baking. He also became a host on UKTV’s Great Food Live; frequently wrote for The Observer and BBC Good Food; and authored a book, 100 Great Breads.

Artisan Baker

Paul also started producing artisan breads and pastries; for sale under the Paul Hollywood Artisan Baker brand with a client list including Harrods and Waitrose. His almond and roquefort sourdough loaf is reputed to be the most expensive loaf in the country.

Paul Hollywood Bake Off

However, it was Great British Bake-Off that has made Paul a star. The surprise hit show tapped in to the nation’s enthusiasm for home baking as well TV talent contests. Paul’s uncompromising judgements and obvious passion for baking has made him a popular TV personality.