After two decades in the heart of London, broadcasting power couple Clare Balding and Alice Arnold have made the bold decision to swap the hustle and bustle of the city for the serene beauty of the Surrey stockbroker belt. The move marks a fresh chapter for the couple, who have long spoken about leaving the urban sprawl behind for a quieter, more peaceful life surrounded by nature.
For the past 20 years, the couple has called a £3million Victorian semi in leafy Chiswick home. But now, they’ve made the move to Esher, a charming town just ten miles upstream from the capital, where they hope to find more space, greenery, and, of course, room for their beloved dogs and horses.
While Esher might not be the rural paradise they once dreamed of, it offers the perfect blend of country living with the convenience of being only 23 minutes from London Waterloo. For Clare, who grew up in the countryside, it’s a return to her roots, and for Alice, who hails from nearby North Surrey, it’s a chance to reconnect with her family and find a quieter pace of life.
A New Beginning in the Stockbroker Belt
Clare, 55, one of the nation’s most cherished broadcasters, and Alice, 63, who works for Mellow Magic Radio, have always kept their private life relatively under wraps. But now, as they embrace their new life in Surrey, they’ve opened up about the exciting changes that are underway. The couple, who met over two decades ago and tied the knot in 2015, had long fantasized about moving out of London for a more tranquil existence. And now, with Clare’s bestselling novel Pastures New as a fitting backdrop to their new chapter, they’ve finally taken the plunge.
“This move is more of an evolution than an escape,” a close friend of the couple revealed. “They’ve spent years in London, but now they’re shifting their focus to what really matters: space, nature, and a slower pace of life.”
In a recent interview, Clare shared the couple’s decision to move: “We wanted more space, a garden for the dogs, and a quieter environment for the family. It’s been a long time coming.” It’s clear that for Clare and Alice, the move to Esher is not just about relocating—it’s about creating a life that aligns with their values and passions.
Building Their Dream Life
Clare and Alice are no strangers to the demands of a busy career, but now, with more space and a home to call their own, they’ve made time for the things that truly matter to them. Dogs, horses, and their close-knit group of friends are at the heart of their new life. Clare, raised in a family steeped in racing, has always had a deep connection to animals, and her love for the countryside runs deep. “I grew up surrounded by animals and open land, and it feels like I’ve never quite lost that connection,” she said.
Despite their love of the country, the couple will still be close enough to London to maintain their professional commitments. But for now, they’re enjoying the quieter pace of life in Esher. The local community has welcomed them with open arms, with neighbors expressing sadness at their departure from Chiswick but understanding of their decision to move further out.
“We’ve known Clare and Alice for years, and it’s sad to see them go,” one neighbor said. “But they’re going to be so much happier in Esher, and they’ll still be close enough to London.”
A Focus on Family and Quality Time
For Clare and Alice, the secret to their enduring relationship is simple: trust, honesty, and a shared sense of humor. “We have so much fun together,” Clare said. “But we also share the same work ethic. Alice completely understands the broadcasting world and the pressures that come with it.”
Their marriage, one of the most respected in broadcasting, is built on a foundation of mutual respect and communication. Clare has often said that laughter is key to their relationship, and it’s clear that they value their time together above all else.
“We talk constantly, even when I’m away for work,” Clare added. “We’re both very aware of the value of our time together. It’s precious.”
A Life Away From the Spotlight
As Clare and Alice begin their new life in Surrey, they’re looking forward to a future filled with more time spent outdoors, enjoying walks with their dogs and quiet evenings at home. “London has been wonderful for us,” Clare said, “but now we’re at a point where we’re ready for something different. We want a home where we can slow down, enjoy our surroundings, and continue to live life to the fullest.”
Their move to Esher isn’t just a change of scenery—it’s a lifestyle shift that reflects the couple’s evolving priorities. “You start wanting gardens instead of traffic, birdsong instead of sirens,” said a friend. For Clare and Alice, it’s all about creating a life that feels right for them—a life where they can savor the simple pleasures and the peace of the countryside.
