In a rare and candid interview, Clare Balding, 55, has opened up about the secret to her successful marriage with Alice Arnold, 64. The couple, who have been together for over two decades, have navigated life as broadcasting powerhouses with a relationship built on trust, honesty, and plenty of laughter.
A Foundation of Trust and Understanding
Clare and Alice first crossed paths in 1999 at the BBC, where their professional relationship blossomed into something far deeper. The two officially tied the knot in 2015, after being in a civil partnership since 2006. Throughout their time together, they have managed to balance their demanding careers with a fulfilling personal life, something Clare attributes to their strong foundation of mutual respect and open communication.
Clare Balding, 55, has shared the secret to her marriage with wife Alice Arnold, 64, as she gave a rare insight into their long-lasting marriage
The prominent broadcasting couple, who first met back in 1999, entered a civil partnership in 2006 before officially marrying in 2015
“We laugh a lot, and we are very aware of the value of our time together,” Clare shared. “We have so much fun, and we enjoy doing the same things to relax. But we also have the same work ethic. Alice understands the broadcasting environment, and she’s always honest with me—telling me when I could do something better. Trust and honesty are at the heart of our marriage.”
Clare and Alice make sure to keep in touch frequently, even when Clare is away for work. “We talk multiple times a day, especially when I’m traveling for events like the Winter Olympics. We stay connected,” Clare explained. This level of communication has been key to keeping their bond strong despite the challenges of their respective careers.
Clare opened up to the Daily Mail about their love story in an exclusive interview and said ‘trust, honesty and laughter’ has been the foundation of their happy marriage
A Past Love, A Present Fulfillment
Clare also shared her personal journey toward self-discovery. Reflecting on past relationships with men, Clare admitted that she initially felt out of place in them. “I had a serious relationship with one man who proposed to me, but I knew deep down I wasn’t ready to say yes. And when he didn’t ask me again, I thought ‘Thank God.’”
It was only after falling in love with Alice that Clare realized how different her feelings were. “When I first fell in love with a woman, it was completely different. Alice is by far the longest and most serious relationship of my life.”
A Campaign for Change
In addition to sharing the secret behind her successful marriage, Clare is using her platform to raise awareness about the upcoming switch to digital landlines in the UK. Partnering with BT, Clare has joined the “Don’t Put Off The Switch” campaign to encourage people to make the switch before the analogue landline network is retired in 2027.
“I think digital voice is a massive advancement, and it’s a much better system. I want to make sure people aren’t left scrambling to switch at the last minute,” Clare emphasized.
Clare’s openness about her marriage, her past, and her advocacy efforts showcases the depth of her commitment—not just to her personal life, but to improving the lives of others. With Alice by her side, Clare continues to show the world what true partnership looks like.
