Declan Donnelly, one half of Britain’s beloved TV duo Ant and Dec, has once again captured the hearts of fans with a gesture so sweet it’s sparked a wave of joy online. The 49-year-old presenter, known for his infectious charm and down-to-earth demeanor, recently welcomed his third child with wife Ali Astall, and he’s pulled out all the stops to create a nursery that’s nothing short of enchanting. Described by fans as “straight out of a fairytale,” the newly revealed space for baby No. 3 has become an internet sensation, with its soft tones, magical touches, and an overwhelming sense of love woven into every detail. As photos of the nursery circulate on social media platforms like X and Instagram, the outpouring of admiration from fans highlights just how much this heartwarming moment resonates in an often chaotic world.
Declan Donnelly and Ali Astall’s journey as a family has been one of quiet joy and steadfast privacy. The couple, who married in 2015 after years of friendship, already share two children: Isla, six, and Jack, four. Their third child, a baby whose name has yet to be publicly disclosed, arrived earlier this year, marking another milestone for the Donnellys. Declan, a household name thanks to his decades-long career hosting shows like I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! and Britain’s Got Talent alongside Ant McPartlin, has always been open about his love for fatherhood. In a 2023 interview, he described becoming a dad as “the best thing that’s ever happened to me,” a sentiment that clearly shines through in the effort he’s poured into creating a magical space for his newest addition.
The nursery reveal came via a series of candid photos shared on Ali’s Instagram, a rare glimpse into the couple’s private world. The images showcase a room that feels like a page torn from a storybook, with every element carefully chosen to create a serene and whimsical environment. The color palette is a soothing blend of pastel pinks, mint greens, and creamy whites, giving the space an ethereal glow. A hand-painted mural on one wall depicts a dreamy forest scene, complete with delicate woodland creatures like bunnies and deer, their eyes sparkling with tiny LED lights embedded in the artwork. Above the crib—a vintage-inspired piece with soft white drapes—hangs a mobile of twinkling stars, each one handcrafted to shimmer in the light. Plush toys, including a giant teddy bear in a rocking chair, add a cozy touch, while fairy lights strung along the ceiling create a magical ambiance that feels like a warm hug.
Fans have been quick to praise the nursery’s design, with many calling it a “fairytale dreamscape.” On X, one user wrote, “Dec has outdone himself—this nursery is pure magic! It’s like stepping into a storybook.” Another commented, “The love in every detail is so clear. This baby is so lucky to grow up in such a beautiful space.” The attention to detail hasn’t gone unnoticed, with some fans speculating that the room’s design might be the work of a high-profile interior designer, though neither Declan nor Ali has confirmed this. What’s undeniable, however, is the personal touch that permeates the space—whether it’s the framed family photos on a shelf or the embroidered blanket draped over the crib, each element tells a story of a family brimming with love.
To understand why this reveal has struck such a chord, it’s worth exploring Declan’s journey as a father. When Isla was born in 2018, Declan spoke openly about the emotional impact of fatherhood, particularly after years of longing to start a family. His bond with Ant McPartlin, who also became a father in recent years, has often been a topic of public fascination, with the duo frequently sharing lighthearted anecdotes about their parenting experiences. But for Declan, fatherhood has also been a deeply personal journey, one he’s chosen to shield from the spotlight. He and Ali have made a conscious effort to keep their children out of the public eye, rarely sharing photos or details about their family life. This makes the nursery reveal all the more special—a rare window into a world the Donnellys have carefully guarded.
The timing of the reveal also adds a layer of significance. Declan has had a busy year, balancing his hosting duties with the demands of fatherhood. Britain’s Got Talent wrapped its latest season in April 2025, and I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! is set to return later this year, meaning Declan’s schedule is as packed as ever. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of his professional life, he’s clearly made time to create something extraordinary for his third child. This balance between career and family is something Declan has spoken about in the past, often crediting Ali for keeping their household grounded. “Ali is my rock,” he said in a 2022 interview. “She makes everything possible, and I’m so grateful for her every day.”
The nursery itself is a testament to the couple’s shared vision for their children’s upbringing. Web searches reveal that pastel colors, like those used in the room, are often chosen for their calming effects on infants, promoting a sense of peace and security. The woodland theme, with its bunnies and deer, aligns with a growing trend in nursery design that emphasizes nature-inspired elements to foster a connection with the outdoors. Fairy lights, a standout feature in the room, are also a popular choice for creating a magical atmosphere, with studies suggesting that soft lighting can help regulate a baby’s sleep patterns. These thoughtful touches suggest that Declan and Ali have done their research, ensuring that the nursery isn’t just beautiful but also functional for their newborn’s needs.
Beyond the aesthetics, the nursery reflects a deeper truth about the Donnellys’ approach to parenting: their commitment to creating a nurturing, love-filled environment for their children. The embroidered blanket, for instance, reportedly features the baby’s initials alongside those of Isla and Jack, a subtle nod to the siblings’ bond. The framed family photos—a mix of candid shots from holidays and milestones—serve as a reminder of the memories they’ve already created as a family of four, now growing to five. Even the giant teddy bear, which Ali captioned as “a gift from Uncle Ant,” hints at the close-knit support system surrounding the Donnellys, with Ant McPartlin playing a cherished role in their children’s lives.
The public’s reaction to the nursery reveal also speaks to a broader cultural moment. In an era where social media often amplifies negativity, stories like this one offer a refreshing dose of positivity. Fans are drawn to the authenticity of Declan and Ali’s joy, a stark contrast to the curated perfection often seen in celebrity culture. The nursery, with its handmade elements and personal touches, feels like a labor of love rather than a staged photo op, resonating with parents who understand the effort it takes to create a special space for a child. On platforms like Instagram, hashtags like #DeclanDonnellyNursery and #FairytaleBabyRoom have begun trending, with users sharing their own nursery inspiration photos alongside messages of admiration for the Donnellys.
For Declan, this moment is likely just the beginning of a new chapter. With three young children at home, his life is undoubtedly busier than ever, but if his past comments are any indication, he’s embracing the chaos with open arms. “I love the madness of it all,” he once said of fatherhood. “It’s exhausting, but it’s the best kind of exhaustion.” As he prepares for the upcoming season of I’m a Celebrity…, fans are eager to see how he’ll balance his on-screen duties with his off-screen role as a dad of three. If the nursery reveal is any indication, he’s already setting the tone for a year filled with love, laughter, and a touch of magic.
The nursery for baby No. 3 isn’t just a room—it’s a symbol of the Donnellys’ unwavering commitment to their family. From the twinkling fairy lights to the hand-painted mural, every detail reflects the care and thought they’ve poured into welcoming their newest member. As fans continue to shower the couple with love, one thing is clear: Declan Donnelly has once again proven why he’s a national treasure, both on screen and off. This fairytale nursery may be stealing hearts online, but it’s the love behind it that truly makes it a dream come true.