Bayley was born on 22 January 1878, the son of Edward Hodson Bayley, who was a wheelwright and later became MP for North Camberwell. He was educated at University College School, where he took an active part in all school plays in French, German and English, and was captain of rugby and cricket. He won scholarships to Charing Cross Hospital and qualified in 1902. After obtaining the Fellowship in 1905 he went into general practice in the City of London; he moved into Finsbury Square and married Margaret Colman in 1914. During the first world war he joined the Army, serving in Hospital ships, and twice went to Gallipoli; after this campaign he worked in Egypt, and was able to enjoy most of the ancient sights of that country. On returning to England, Bayley joined the Navy and served in HMS Warspite until the end of hostilities. In 1919 he returned to his practice which soon became very successful. He was appointed medical officer to the Metropolitan Police, and in 1923 principal medical officer to the Cable and Wireless Company. During the second world war he was in the Home Guard in London, sleeping in his consulting room all through the bombing, and was on duty at Electra House when it was hit by a flying bomb in 1944. Soon after the war he accompanied the chairman of Cable and Wireless on a tour of the Mediterranean, visiting Cyprus, Malta, Athens and Rome. Bayley was chairman of the Cable and Wireless Art and Craft Society and contributed specimens of his own tapestry work to the exhibitions. After retirement he went to live at Plumtree Cottage, Naphill, High Wycombe, Bucks and founded the Naphill Darby and Joan Club, later becoming its president. He was also president of the Naphill Horticultural Society and led a full social life until his final illness. He died on 18 July 1967, from cancer of the prostate, and was survived by his wife. A memorial service was held at Hughenden Parish Church.