Broadcasting couple Clare Balding and Alice Arnold have embarked on a new chapter, relocating from Chiswick to Esher, Surrey.

A Shift in Lifestyle

While Esher remains conveniently connected to London with a 23-minute train ride to Waterloo, the move signifies a desire for a more tranquil lifestyle. For years, the couple lived in a £3 million Victorian semi-detached home in Chiswick, a popular area for media professionals.

Seeking Space and Greenery

The decision to move was driven by a longing for more space, greenery, and a slower pace of life. This change follows Clare Balding’s successful debut novel, Pastures New, reflecting a theme of seeking fresh horizons.

A Relationship Built to Last

Balding and Arnold’s relationship began in 1999 at the BBC and has flourished for over two decades. They entered into a civil partnership in 2006 and later married in 2015.

Trust, Honesty, and Laughter

Clare Balding emphasizes the importance of trust, honesty, and mutual respect within their partnership. She also values Alice Arnold’s candid feedback on her work.

Both maintain busy professional lives – Alice hosts on Mellow Magic radio – and prioritize quality time together. Friends describe their life as warm, unpretentious, and removed from typical celebrity lifestyles.

Returning to Roots

Balding has previously expressed feeling overwhelmed by city life, having grown up in the countryside. The move to Esher is seen as a natural evolution, prioritizing gardens and birdsong over the hustle and bustle of urban living.

The new home will provide a better environment for their dogs and allow them to enjoy their shared love of animals and the outdoors, all while remaining accessible to their professional commitments in London. Humour remains a central element of their enduring relationship.