Julia Bradbury, former Countryfile presenter, has opened up about contemplating a major family move after her battle with breast cancer. Diagnosed in 2021 with a 6cm tumour, the 51-year-old underwent surgery and has since transformed her lifestyle to prioritize her health.
The broadcaster shared with Woman’s Weekly Magazine how she closely monitors her health markers through regular check-ups, improved sleep, and reduced inflammation. She has embraced a sugar-free diet, focusing on protein-rich meals while significantly cutting down on alcohol to lessen the risk of cancer recurrence.
Currently residing in Notting Hill, West London with her long-term partner, property developer Gerard Cunningham, and their three children, Julia is questioning if the city remains the best setting for raising her family. She aims to reduce her children’s screen time and promote more outdoor activity, sometimes using creative ways like playing “uppie badminton” to encourage them outside.
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“We talk almost weekly about whether London is the right place to bring up kids,” she admits, weighing the contrast between city life and her own tranquil childhood in Rutland, England’s smallest county.
An ardent advocate of nature’s healing power, Julia sees walking as essential for mental and physical health — a “pillar of health” she strongly recommends. During her appearance on Lorraine, she emphasized the importance of spending time outdoors, noting, “One of the biggest health mistakes we make every day is that we don’t spend enough time outside.”
While London has been convenient for her family’s careers and education, Julia fondly remembers growing up in a peaceful Rutland village, nurturing a deep connection to the countryside. This bond is highlighted in her latest ITV series, Julia Bradbury’s Wonders of the Frozen South, where she explores the breathtaking landscapes of the South Atlantic and Antarctica.
In this series, Julia journeys to the Falkland Islands, delving into its rugged wilderness, learning sheep herding and shearing, and encountering massive icebergs, demonstrating her passion for exploring and understanding the natural world.
Julia Bradbury’s Wonders of the Frozen South airs today at 12:45 pm on ITV and ITVX.