James May spent his early years in Newport, where he received his primary education at Caerleon Endowed Junior School. He later attended Oakwood Comprehensive School in Rotherham, South Yorkshire, where he shared classrooms with future actor Dean Andrews. A keen music enthusiast in his youth, May played both the piano and the flute with passion.

He went on to study music at Pendle College, part of Lancaster University. Following graduation, May briefly worked in non-media roles, including as a records officer at a hospital in Chelsea and a short stint in the civil service. His career in journalism began in the 1980s as a sub-editor for the magazine The Engineer. He subsequently contributed to a range of notable publications, including Car Magazine, Top Gear magazine, and The Daily Telegraph.

Major Career Achievements

James May has made numerous contributions to both print and broadcast media. In 2006, he published May on Motors, a collection of his automotive columns. He also collaborated with Oz Clarke in the BBC series Oz and James’s Big Adventure, which combined elements of travel and wine exploration. The series was well-received and emphasized May’s versatility as a presenter beyond motoring topics.

May co-hosted ITV’s coverage of the London Boat Show in 2006 and presented James May's Top Toys on BBC, a nostalgic programme examining the most beloved toys from his childhood. Additionally, he appeared on Gordon Ramsay’s show The F Word, where he showcased a fish pie recipe in a lighthearted culinary challenge against the celebrity chef. His wide-ranging television appearances span educational content, humorous segments, and hands-on experimentation, showcasing his diverse interests and unique on-screen persona.

In recognition of his work in science communication and his contributions to promoting public understanding of technology and engineering, May has been involved with various educational and entertainment projects, including special-edition DVDs, books, and video games related to science and motoring.

Personal Life and Interests

James May is part of a large family, with two brothers and two sisters. Since 2000, he has been in a long-term relationship with Sarah Frater, a dance critic. The couple resides in a house in West London. Though they have continued their relationship for years, they are not publicly known to be married.

In 2010, Lancaster University, where May previously studied music, awarded him an Honorary Doctorate in recognition of his work in promoting science and technology. His passion for vehicles extends beyond cars into aviation; he has been training to obtain a light aircraft pilot’s license, reflecting his broader enthusiasm for engineering and innovation.