Countryfile presenter Matt Baker and his wife Nicola have candidly discussed spending more time apart as they navigate changing professional paths. Nicola recently announced she is stepping away from the family sheep farm in the Durham hills to focus on her burgeoning career as a children’s book author.
The couple, who have been married for over 20 years and share two children, rose to public attention through their Channel 4 series, Our Farm in the Dales. The show captured their life managing a sheep farm near Matt’s childhood home while juggling their various commitments.
While Nicola previously balanced her work as a physiotherapist with family life, she has long harbored a passion for writing. What was once a hobby has now become her primary occupation, with three children’s books published and more titles in development.
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During a recent appearance on Lorraine, the hosts discussed how their busy schedules mean they often pursue separate endeavors. Lorraine commented on the dynamic, “You go off doing your own thing writing the books and you go off doing your own things around Britain, so there are times where you are apart. But, don’t you think sometimes that works?”
Matt reflected positively on their approach to balancing personal ambitions and family life: “We’re such doers in our lives, and we’re so supportive of what each other wants to do, we’ve just found our way through.”
Nicola echoed this sentiment, emphasizing how their busy lives have deepened their appreciation for the time they spend together: “We make the most of the time that we have together and prioritise that and make the most of that.”
Their relationship began when Matt met Nicola during a disco performance in Cleethorpes, and their partnership has since grown into a strong marriage and family life with their children, Molly and Luke.
Nicola’s publishing journey started with her debut book, A Whistledown Farm Adventure: Finding Hope, released last February. It was followed by Rescuing Ruby and Meeting Meg, with a fourth installment on the way later this year.
Meanwhile, Matt continues his television career, appearing on Countryfile alongside Sammi Kinghorn in East Devon for upcoming episodes. Viewers will also see Adam Henson tending to young animals on his Cotswolds farm.
Countryfile returns to BBC Two on Sunday, July 12, at 7 pm, continuing to explore rural life and farming across the UK.