The Repair Shop is a multi-award-winning British television series produced by Ricochet and broadcast on BBC One, featuring a team of expert craftspeople who restore cherished family heirlooms and artifacts. As of April 2026, the show remains a cornerstone of the BBC’s primetime schedule, led by presenter Jay Blades and filmed at the iconic Weald and Downland Living Museum in Singleton, West Sussex. The series has captivated global audiences by blending intricate technical restoration with deep emotional storytelling, often uncovering the historical significance of items ranging from Victorian clocks to mid-century furniture. In late 2025 and early 2026, the show expanded its roster of experts to include specialists in sustainable technology and modern plastics, reflecting a growing commitment to the “repair, not replace” movement. This comprehensive guide details the 2026 cast, provides specific instructions on how to visit the filming location, and explains the step-by-step application process for those wishing to bring their own treasures to the barn.
The Iconic Filming Location
The atmospheric setting of The Repair Shop is just as important as the restorations themselves. The “Barn” is actually the Court Barn, a timber-framed building that is part of a larger historical preservation site.
Location: Weald and Downland Living Museum, Singleton, West Sussex, PO18 0EU.
History: The barn dates back to the late 17th or early 18th century and was originally located in Lee-on-the-Solent before being moved to the museum in 1977.
Accessibility: While the museum is open to the public, the barn itself is often closed during filming periods to ensure the privacy and safety of the experts and production crew.
Practical Detail: Visitors can explore over 50 other historic buildings on the 40-acre site, providing a context for the traditional crafts seen on the show.
In 2026, the museum has seen record footfall as fans of the show travel from across the globe to see the thatched roof and weathered timbers in person. During non-filming days, the museum often hosts “Craft Days” where visitors can see some of the traditional tools used by the experts. It is important to note that you cannot simply “drop off” items at the barn without a pre-arranged appointment via the production company, Ricochet.
Meet the 2026 Expert Team
The success of the show rests on the incredible skill and chemistry of its resident experts. While Jay Blades oversees the workshop as the foreman, the specialists handle the painstaking manual labor.
Master Craftsmen and Women
Dominic Chinea remains a fan favorite for his metalwork and restoration of heavy machinery, often seen tackling rusty signs or vintage pedal cars. Steve Fletcher and his sister Suzie Fletcher continue to represent the horological and leather-working traditions, respectively, with their family’s multi-generational expertise. In 2026, Will Kirk remains the primary furniture restorer, while Kirsten Ramsay handles delicate ceramics and “invisible” repairs that leave viewers stunned.
Specialized Artisans
The team also includes Lucia Scalisi for painting conservation, Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell (the “Teddy Bear Ladies”) for soft toys, and Brenton West for silversmithing and photography equipment. Newer additions for the 2025/26 season include specialists in early digital technology and luxury watch restoration, acknowledging the changing nature of “heirlooms” as they pass from Gen X to Millennials.
How to Apply for the Show
Applying to be on The Repair Shop is a competitive process, as the production team receives thousands of inquiries for every series. The selection process focuses on both the technical challenge of the item and the emotional story behind it.
Online Application: Prospective participants must apply via the Ricochet website’s “Take Part” section.
Requirements: You must provide clear photographs of the item, a detailed history of its ownership, and an explanation of why the restoration is important to you.
Cost: If your item is selected for the show, the labor and materials for the repair are covered by the production company; owners do not pay for the restoration.
Timeline: The casting process can take several months, and successful applicants are usually contacted via telephone for a preliminary interview.
The production team specifically looks for items that have a unique narrative—perhaps a toy that survived the Blitz or a tool used in a forgotten trade. In 2026, there is a particular interest in items that represent diverse cultural heritages across the UK, aiming to showcase a broader range of global craftsmanship.
Technical Excellence: The Restoration Process
What differentiates The Repair Shop from other “fix-it” shows is the uncompromising quality of the work. The experts frequently use a mix of centuries-old techniques and modern conservation science.
For example, when Steve Fletcher restores a clock, he doesn’t just make it work; he preserves the “patina” of age, ensuring the item doesn’t look brand new but rather well-cared-for. Similarly, Lucia Scalisi uses chemical analysis to match the exact pigments used by artists decades or centuries ago. This commitment to “sympathetic restoration” means that the monetary value of the item is often preserved or increased, though the show emphasizes sentimental value over profit.
Practical Information and Visiting
If you are planning a trip to the Chichester area to visit the museum or hope to catch a glimpse of the experts, here is the essential practical data for 2026.
Museum Opening Hours: 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM (Summer) / 10:30 AM to 4:00 PM (Winter).
Admission Prices: Adults are approximately £17.50, with discounts for children, seniors, and families.
Transport: The nearest train station is Chichester. From there, you can take the No. 60 bus, which stops right outside the museum entrance.
Parking: There is ample free parking on-site for cars and coaches.
What to Expect: A lot of walking across uneven ground; sturdy footwear is highly recommended. The site is dog-friendly, though pets must be kept on short leads.
Visitor Tip: Check the museum’s “Filming News” page before booking to see if the Court Barn area will be restricted during your visit.
FAQs
Do you have to pay for repairs on The Repair Shop?
No, the show covers all costs for materials and labor if your item is selected for filming.
Can you visit the barn while they are filming?
Generally, no. The immediate area around the barn is cordoned off during filming to prevent noise interference and ensure safety.
Where is The Repair Shop filmed?
It is filmed at the Weald and Downland Living Museum in Singleton, West Sussex, England.
Who is the host of The Repair Shop in 2026?
Jay Blades continues to serve as the main presenter and shop foreman.
How do I contact the experts for private work?
Most experts have their own independent businesses outside of the show. You can find their professional websites by searching their names online (e.g., “Will Kirk Furniture Restoration”).
Is The Repair Shop scripted?
While the filming is structured, the emotions and stories from the guests are genuine, and the experts perform the actual labor seen on screen.
How long does a restoration take?
On screen, it looks fast, but in reality, many items stay in the barn for several weeks or even months depending on the complexity of the repair.
Are the Teddy Bear Ladies still on the show?
Yes, Amanda Middleditch and Julie Tatchell remain the resident experts for all things soft and plush.
Can I buy items restored on the show?
No, the items belong to the guests who bring them in; the show does not sell the heirlooms it restores.
What happens if an item cannot be fixed?
The experts are honest about the limitations of restoration. If an item is too far gone, they will often stabilize it to prevent further decay rather than forcing a “functional” repair.
Read More on Manchesterreporter