It's 'Pastures New' for Clare Balding

Broadcaster reveals her plans to quit Chiswick by spring

Archie (left) with Alice Arnold and Clare Balding. Picture: Clare Balding/Instagram

August 23, 2025

Broadcaster and author Clare Balding has revealed plans to leave her long-time home in Chiswick, due to what she describes as a ‘dog-shaped hole in her life’.

The decision, shared in an interview with The Times as part of the promotion for her new book, suitably titled ‘Pastures New’, will mark a turning point for the 54-year-old, who has often talked fondly living in the area.

In the interview with Gaby Huddart, she reflected on the deep emotional connection she and her wife, Alice Arnold, formed with the area through years of walking their Tibetan terrier, Archie.

She said, “We used to walk him in the gardens of Chiswick House near our home pretty much every day.

“We’d meet a bunch of friends at 10am, grab a coffee and take all the dogs together — and that’s the basis of our friendship group in London. We’re all different ages and have different jobs and backgrounds, but dogs do that for you — they make you get out and they make friends for you.”

The walk from Chiswick House to Hammersmith Bridge and back via Kew Bridge was named as her favourite London route in her top ten walking recommendations. She recommends walking out of Chiswick House towards the river and then towards Hammersmith Bridge before doubling back to Kew Bridge. She says, “Alice, and I used to walk our dog Archie here and had our civil partnership in the house in 2006, so it means a huge amount to us. It’s a good length, about six miles, and is a good combination of riverside and woodland, also offering the chance to check out some fancy houses.”

Archie’s passing in 2020 left what she described as “a dog-shaped hole” in their lives—a loss that prompted repeated walks along his favourite route, often ending in tears. Now, the couple are preparing to relocate, with hopes of finding a home that offers more space and safety for a future dog.

“As soon as we’re settled, it’s our plan—probably next spring,” she said. “I smile at the thought of having a dog back in our lives.”

Pastures New is due for release on 11 September. The book, written in part during her walks through Chiswick, explores themes of change, belonging, and renewal—echoing her own journey away from the city that once felt suffocating but ultimately became a place of healing and connection.

Her love of walking has long been a cornerstone of her wellbeing and creativity. As presenter of BBC Radio 4’s Ramblings, she has recorded over 500 episodes across 25 years, covering more than 3,400 miles. “Walking is better than therapy,” she told The Times, crediting time in nature with helping her manage stress and unlock creative insights.