Eleanor Tomlinson Marries Rugby Star Will Owen: Poldark Actress Weds Beau
In a romantic union that merged the worlds of high-profile television drama and professional sports, Eleanor Tomlinson marries rugby star Will Owen: Poldark actress weds beau in a breathtaking ceremony set against the rolling hills of the English countryside. The celebrated actress, best known for her fiery portrayal of Demelza in the BBC hit series Poldark, tied the knot with the Coventry Rugby player at the historic Euridge Manor in the Cotswolds, marking the culmination of their whirlwind romance. The weekend-long celebration was characterized by its fairy-tale aesthetic, intimate guest list, and a palpable sense of joy that radiated from the happy couple.
A Fairytale Setting in the Cotswolds
The choice of venue played a pivotal role in setting the tone for the nuptials. Euridge Manor, nestled in the heart of the Cotswolds near Chippenham, provided a backdrop that seemed lifted directly from the pages of a storybook. Known for its Georgian-style architecture, crumbling ruins, and manicured gardens, the estate offered the perfect blend of rustic charm and aristocratic elegance. The venue features the iconic "Lost Orangery," complete with crystal chandeliers and sparkling water features, which framed the couple as they exchanged vows.
The ceremony took place during a quintessential British summer heatwave, bathing the limestone structures and greenery in brilliant sunlight. Observers noted that the setting complemented Tomlinson’s on-screen legacy of period dramas while remaining distinctly modern and personal to the couple. The outdoor ceremony allowed the natural beauty of the English countryside to serve as the primary décor, requiring minimal embellishment to achieve a stunning visual impact. This deliberate choice of location underscored the couple's desire for a wedding that felt grounded, private, and deeply romantic.
The Ferncroft Dress: A Bridal Masterpiece
Central to the visual splendor of the day was Eleanor Tomlinson’s choice of bridal attire. Moving away from the corseted period costumes she is famous for, the actress opted for a gown that exuded contemporary sophistication and timeless grace. She wore a custom-fitted Ferncroft dress designed by Louise Selby. The gown was notable for its voluminous silhouette, featuring an elegant off-the-shoulder neckline that highlighted her decolletage, paired with a dramatic, sweeping skirt that created a stunning profile as she walked down the aisle.
In interviews following the event, Tomlinson expressed her desire for a dress that was both comfortable and spectacular. "There is an energy to the dress," she reportedly told fashion editors, noting that she wanted a garment that allowed her to move freely and enjoy the celebration. To complete the ensemble, she accessorized with a pair of classic Christian Louboutin heels and diamond jewelry from De Beers, adding a touch of sparkle that caught the summer sun. Her signature red hair was styled in chic, loose waves, maintaining her natural look while elevating it for the occasion.
The Groom and the Guest List
While all eyes were inevitably on the bride, Will Owen cut a dashing figure standing at the altar. The rugby star, who plays for Coventry in the RFU Championship, opted for a classic, tailored aesthetic that complemented the rustic elegance of the venue. His presence underscored the merging of two distinct professional spheres. The couple, who were first linked romantically in 2019, have largely kept their relationship out of the tabloids, making this public celebration a rare glimpse into their personal dynamic.
The guest list was curated to ensure an atmosphere of intimacy and genuine connection. Rather than a sprawling celebrity gala, the couple prioritized family and close friends. However, the attendance list did include notable figures from the entertainment industry, reflecting Tomlinson's extensive career. The joyful reunion of friends and family was particularly poignant given the travel restrictions and social distancing measures that had characterized the preceding years. The reception reportedly featured heartfelt speeches that touched on the couple's resilience and the deep bond they formed during the global lockdowns, a period that accelerated their relationship and solidified their commitment to one another.
From Demelza to Real-Life Romance
For fans of Poldark, seeing Eleanor Tomlinson find her own "happily ever after" resonated deeply. Having spent years portraying Demelza Poldark, a character defined by her fierce loyalty and complex romantic life, Tomlinson’s real-life wedding was a moment of celebration for her supporters. The transition from on-screen romance to real-life matrimony was seamless, with the actress bringing the same grace and poise to her wedding day as she does to her roles.
The relationship between Tomlinson and Owen developed away from the glare of the paparazzi. Following her split from co-star Harry Richardson, Tomlinson found stability and happiness with Owen. Sources close to the couple have described them as "perfectly matched," with Owen’s grounded nature in the sports world providing a strong counterbalance to the frantic pace of the film and television industry. Their engagement, which occurred in late 2021, was a low-key affair, setting the precedent for a wedding that valued personal significance over public spectacle.
A Weekend of Celebration
The festivities extended beyond the ceremony itself. The reception was held on the grounds of the manor, utilizing the expansive lawns for a cocktail hour that stretched into the evening. Guests were treated to a locally sourced menu that highlighted the best of Cotswolds produce, followed by a night of dancing. The atmosphere was described by attendees as "euphoric," with the bride and groom leading the celebrations with infectious energy.
Music played a central role in the evening, with a live band keeping the energy high. The couple’s first dance was a private moment shared with their nearest and dearest, symbolizing the start of their new chapter. As the sun set over the Orangery, the venue was illuminated by soft lighting, creating a magical ambiance that lasted well into the night. It was a celebration not just of marriage, but of reunion, marking one of the first major gatherings for their circle since the pandemic began.
Career Context and Future Prospects
The wedding comes at a busy time for Tomlinson. Beyond her defining role in Poldark, she has continued to expand her repertoire with roles in The Outlaws and The War of the Worlds. Balancing a high-profile acting career with wedding planning is no small feat, yet the seamless execution of the event speaks to her organizational skills and clear vision. For Owen, the wedding took place during the rugby off-season, allowing the couple to fully immerse themselves in the experience before returning to their respective professional commitments.
As Eleanor Tomlinson marries rugby star Will Owen: Poldark actress weds beau, the couple has established themselves as a dynamic pair within the British celebrity landscape. Yet, their approach to the wedding suggests they intend to maintain the privacy that has served their relationship so well. By choosing a venue tucked away in the countryside and controlling the release of information, they have managed to share their joy with the world while keeping the most sacred moments for themselves.
In the days following the wedding, official photographs released to the press confirmed what guests had witnessed: a day filled with love, laughter, and impeccable style. The images of Tomlinson in her Louise Selby gown and Owen in his suit, framed by the stone arches of Euridge Manor, have already become iconic additions to the catalogue of celebrity weddings. As they embark on married life, the couple carries with them the memories of a perfect summer weekend in the Cotswolds, a fitting start to their lifelong partnership.
