In a world where relationships often play out in the spotlight…
This one has quietly stood the test of time.
Now, Clare Balding has shared a rare and heartfelt insight into her marriage — and what’s kept it strong for over two decades.
A LOVE STORY THAT STARTED AT THE BBC
Clare and Alice first met back in 1999 while working at the BBC.
What began as friendship…
Gradually grew into something deeper.
They:
Entered a civil partnership in 2006
Officially married in 2015
And have been together ever since.
THE SECRET? “WE LAUGH A LOT”
When asked what makes their relationship last, Clare didn’t hesitate:
Trust Honesty Laughter
Simple words.
But powerful ones.
“We have the most lovely time together… we laugh a lot.”
That joy, she says, is at the heart of everything.
HONESTY — EVEN WHEN IT’S HARD
One of the strongest foundations of their relationship?
Being completely honest with each other.
Alice, a radio presenter herself, understands Clare’s world — and isn’t afraid to speak up.
“She’ll tell me if I haven’t done something well.”
Not criticism.
Trust.
The kind that builds something lasting.
MAKING TIME MATTER
Despite busy careers, they’ve always prioritised each other.
Clare explained that even when work calls — like covering major events — she stays connected:
Talking multiple times a day Messaging constantly
Because staying close isn’t accidental.
It’s intentional.
CHOOSING EACH OTHER — EVERY DAY
Clare made something very clear:
“I really value my time with Alice… it has to be pretty special to take me away from that.”
In other words?
Work matters.
But their relationship comes first.
A JOURNEY TO FIND THE RIGHT LOVE
Clare also reflected on her past — admitting she once dated men but never felt truly at ease.
It wasn’t until she fell in love with a woman…
That everything changed.
“Alice is by far the longest, most serious relationship of my life.”
A RELATIONSHIP BUILT TO LAST
More than 25 years on from meeting…
They’re still:
Laughing Communicating Supporting each other
And perhaps most importantly…
Enjoying the life they’ve built together.
LOVE, DONE SIMPLY
No grand secrets.
No complicated formulas.
Just:
Trust.
Honesty.
And a lot of laughter.
Because sometimes…
The strongest relationships…
Are built on the simplest things
