Paul J.M. Hunnings: Verified Biography, Age & Life with Mary Berry

Paul J.M. Hunnings is widely known as the husband of Britain’s beloved cookery writer, broadcaster, and television personality, Dame Mary Berry. While his wife has spent decades in the public eye—recently being honored with the 2026 BAFTA Fellowship—Paul has preferred to maintain a lower profile.

For those looking to learn more about the man behind the British baking icon, this biography explores verified public records, his professional career, and their family life.

Who Is Paul J.M. Hunnings?

According to official UK public and business records, his full registered name is Paul John March Hunnings. Born in March 1932, he is a British national residing in England.

Unlike his wife, who trained at Le Cordon Bleu and built a massive media empire with the BBC, Paul built his career in the traditional business and antique sectors. Despite keeping out of the media spotlight, he remains a key figure in Mary Berry’s personal and professional life.

Career: Antique Books and Business Ventures

Paul Hunnings spent the majority of his professional life working in the antique book trade. Before his retirement, he was a highly regarded antique book dealer and was historically associated with Harvey’s of Bristol.

In addition to his career in books, Paul holds significant roles within his wife’s corporate brand. According to official Companies House records, he is a deeply involved business partner:

• Mary Berry Limited: Paul was appointed as an active director on July 1, 2014.

• Mary Berry Merchandising Limited: On the same date, he was also appointed as an active director for her merchandising branch.

• Verified Status: As of 2025, his identity verification status is marked as fully complete on the UK business register.

Marriage to Dame Mary Berry (1966 – Present)

Paul Hunnings and Mary Berry married in 1966 and have shared one of the most enduring marriages in the British public eye. Their relationship is officially documented in historical archives, including a 2022 notice in The Gazette, which formally recognizes Mary’s married name as Mary Rosa Alleyne Hunnings (Mary Berry), C.B.E.

The couple is known for their strong bond and shared love for countryside living. Even after more than five decades of marriage, they remain devoted to one another, frequently spending their time at their Buckinghamshire home.

Family Life and Children

According to Mary Berry’s official website, she and Paul had three children together: William, Thomas, and Annabel.

Tragically, the family faced a severe loss in 1989 when their son, William, passed away in a car accident at the age of 19. The couple has navigated this heartbreak privately over the years, leaning on each other and their surviving children, Thomas and Annabel, who continue to stay out of the intense celebrity spotlight.

2025 Health Updates & Current Lifestyle

Now in his 90s, Paul enjoys a quiet, retired life. In late 2025, Mary Berry shared some updates regarding her husband’s health and their daily routines. Speaking to the Evening Standard, she affectionately referred to him as her “long-retired book dealer husband” and noted that he was recovering well after taking a tumble that resulted in broken ribs.

Despite his age—noted as 93 in a 2025 Saga interview—Paul remains active. The couple is known to play croquet together near Henley-on-Thames. Interestingly, during his younger years, Paul was an avid sportsman who played rugby for the Saracens.

Quick Verified Facts About Paul J.M. Hunnings

(FAQs)

How old is Paul J.M. Hunnings?

According to Companies House records, Paul Hunnings was born in March 1932. As of media reports from late 2025, he is 93 years old.

What did Paul Hunnings do for a living?

Paul is a retired antique book dealer. He previously worked with Harvey’s of Bristol. Today, he also serves as an active director for Mary Berry Limited and Mary Berry Merchandising Limited.

When did Mary Berry and Paul Hunnings get married?

Paul Hunnings and Mary Berry were married in 1966. They have been together for over 50 years.

Did Paul Hunnings play sports?

Yes, in his younger years, Paul Hunnings was a rugby player and played for the Saracens. Today, he enjoys playing croquet with his wife.

How many children do Paul Hunnings and Mary Berry have?

The couple had three children: William, Thomas, and Annabel. Sadly, their son William passed away in an accident in 1989 at the age of 19.