Julyan Wallis was born in Cornwall in the United Kingdom, though his exact date of birth is not publicly documented. He developed an early interest in music and craftsmanship, particularly in stringed instruments.

Details about his parents and early life are not widely available, but his career reflects a strong foundation in instrument making and restoration.

Wallis trained as a luthier, specialising in the repair and restoration of guitars, violins, and other stringed instruments. Over time, he built a reputation for careful, traditional restoration techniques.

He became known to a wider audience through The Repair Shop on the Road, broadcast on BBC One, where he restores treasured musical instruments and shares their stories with their owners.

He is married to Bonnie Wallis, and is a father and a doting grandfather. He continues to work professionally as a luthier alongside his television appearances.