Sara Pascoe Returns to Host The Great British Sewing Bee
The Great British Sewing Bee is back for its 11th series, and honestly, it’s just as charming as ever. This BBC favorite has drawn in sewing fans since 2013, and it’s easy to see why.
This season, we get the usual mix: returning hosts, sharp judges, and a group of fresh contestants. If you’re into sewing, or just love a good competition, you’re in for a treat.
Table of Contents
Returning Host: Sara Pascoe
*Sara Pascoe* is back hosting the 11th series, and fans seem thrilled. Her wit and warmth really bring something special to the show.
Sara hosted series eight and nine, then took a break for maternity leave during season 10. In her absence, *Kiell Smith-Bynoe* took the reins for a while. You might know him from *Ghosts* or *Stath Lets Flats*—he brought his own energy to the show, but there’s just something about Sara that feels right.
Esteemed Judges: Patrick Grant and Esme Young
The judging panel hasn’t changed, and that’s a relief. *Patrick Grant* is back, just like he’s been since the very beginning in 2013.
He’s the director at Norton & Sons and Community Clothing, so he knows his stuff. Alongside him, *Esme Young* returns—she joined in series four and is a legend in her own right. She co-founded Swanky Modes in the ‘70s and has designed costumes for movies like *The Beach*, *Bridget Jones’ Diary*, and *Trainspotting*.
Patrick and Esme make a brilliant team. Their mix of technical know-how and creative flair keeps things interesting, and sometimes you can tell they’re just as invested as the contestants.
Filming Location: Sunny Bank Mills
The show’s still filmed at *Sunny Bank Mills* in Farsley, Leeds. This old textile mill from the 19th century has been the Sewing Bee’s home since 2022.
With its history and textile roots, it’s honestly the perfect spot for a sewing competition. You can almost feel the creative energy in the air.
Meet the Contestants
This year’s contestants are a mix of personalities and backgrounds. Here’s who’s competing:
- Caz, 59, retired – Staffordshire
- Dan, 37, stage performer – Durham
- Gaynor, 72, retired office manager – Port Talbot
- Glendora, 59, bus driver – Luton
- Jessica ‘Jess’, 33, head of communications – London
- Kit, 24, digital marketeer – Manchester
- Novello, 66, business owner and magistrate – London
- Órla, 19, cafe worker/student – Inverness
- Peter, 45, senior pre-construction manager – Devon
- Saffie, 32, lecturer – London
- Stuart, 53, premises manager – Herefordshire
- Yasmin, 30, scientist – Gateshead
They all seem passionate about sewing, and it’s shaping up to be a tough competition.
Episode Highlights and Challenges
Week One Recap
The first episode kicked things off with a twist. *Glendora* couldn’t take part in the last challenge due to illness, so nobody went home in week one.
That meant everyone got another chance to show what they could do. *Peter* really impressed the judges and snagged *garment of the week* for his creation.
Upcoming Challenges
Tonight’s episode (9pm on BBC One) looks packed with new challenges. The *Radio Times* preview hints at what’s coming:
- A technical pattern challenge—contestants will make a seven-panel cap
- A transformation challenge—turning unwanted cycling gear into something fresh and stylish
- A made-to-measure challenge—creating athleisure wear that works for the gym but still looks good at a coffee shop
What Makes This Season Special
The 11th series of The Great British Sewing Bee keeps building on the show’s legacy. It mixes the excitement of competition with that infectious sense of creativity.
Seeing familiar faces like Sara Pascoe, Patrick Grant, and Esme Young brings a comforting sense of continuity. At the same time, a fresh batch of contestants gives the series an unpredictable edge.
The show really leans into showcasing a wide range of talents and backgrounds. Every season feels a little different because of it.
Honestly, whether you’ve watched since the start or you’re just tuning in, there’s probably something here that’ll catch your eye.
For more details and updates on The Great British Sewing Bee, visit the official article on Edinburgh News.
