England star Kildunne joins Bristol Bears for 2026-27 season
World Cup winner Ellie Kildunne will leave Harlequins to join Bristol Bears for the 2026-27 season, citing a need for change and the club's attractive playing style.
England's World Cup-winning full-back Ellie Kildunne has announced she will join Bristol Bears for the 2026-27 season, leaving Harlequins after four years.
Kildunne, a former World Player of the Year, played a key role in England's third consecutive Women's Rugby World Cup triumph last September. She also helped the Red Roses secure a fifth straight Grand Slam in the recent Women's Six Nations, scoring five tries in the tournament. Since her international debut at age 18, Kildunne has earned 62 caps and scored 48 tries for England.
The 26-year-old began her club career at Wasps before moving to Harlequins in 2021. She previously expressed disappointment at leaving Quins but now says the timing felt right for a new challenge. Kildunne admitted she had considered joining Bristol a couple of years ago and was impressed by the club, but was not ready to relocate at the time.
Bristol Bears finished eighth in the Premiership Women's Rugby table this season, a disappointing result. However, the club has built a reputation for attracting high-profile players. American star Ilona Maher spent three months with the Bears in early 2025, New Zealand captain Ruahei Demant joined this season, and Wales wing Louis Rees-Zammit also played for the men's team after returning from American football. Bristol's CEO has acknowledged that player marketability is part of their recruitment strategy.
Kildunne highlighted the Bears' attacking, running style of play as a major factor in her decision. She also noted that the club's experience in supporting players with commitments beyond rugby was appealing, given her own non-rugby activities.
At Bristol, Kildunne will reunite with several England teammates, including Sarah Bern, Hannah Botterman, Abbie Ward, and Lark Atkin-Davies. She also expressed excitement about linking up with wing Millie David, who earned her first England cap this spring, saying she believes they can bring out the best in each other on the pitch.
Kildunne said she feels her best rugby is still ahead of her.
