From Young Farmers Romance to Farmhouse Living: Reuben Owen and Jess Ellwood Take the Next Big Step at 22

In a heartwarming story that feels straight out of a countryside romance, 22-year-old Reuben Owen and his girlfriend Jess Ellwood have officially moved in together, marking a significant milestone in their young relationship. The couple, who first crossed paths at a Young Farmers convention in 2024, have now taken the bold step of sharing a home on Jess’s family farm in the picturesque region of Cumbria, England.

What began as a casual visit with “just a toothbrush” has quickly evolved into a full commitment. Reuben openly admitted that he started staying over more frequently, eventually reaching the point where he no longer wanted to leave. “It started with a toothbrush, and now my pants are in the washing machine and my dinner is on the table. Now I’m all in,” he shared with a smile. Their transition into cohabitation reflects the natural progression of their relationship, built on shared values and a mutual love for farming life.

Their new home is far from a typical young couple’s apartment. Instead, it’s a working farm filled with early morning routines, demanding physical work, and the constant responsibilities that come with rural living. The couple has embraced this lifestyle wholeheartedly, finding joy in the simplicity and challenges of farm work despite their rising fame on television.

Adding an extra layer of cuteness to their new chapter is a tiny three-week-old lamb named Fluff, who has become a permanent member of their household. The little lamb sadly suffered a broken leg after her mother accidentally stepped on her during lambing season. Rather than letting her face an uncertain future, Reuben and Jess decided to adopt her as their very own pet.

Jess spoke affectionately about their new addition: “We have a new pet. This is Fluff. She’s quite precious. Lambing can be tough… lots can go wrong.” She laughed as she described how Fluff has already been inside the house, sleeping comfortably on a blanket. “She’s going to be our pet sheep now — she’ll live with us forever.”

Reuben is equally enchanted by the little lamb. “She’s so cute. When she sees Jess, her little face absolutely lights up. She’s starting to get to know her name now too,” he said. The couple jokingly refers to Fluff as more like their child than a pet, highlighting the deep bond they’ve already formed with the animal.

Despite appearing on the popular Channel 5 series Reuben Owen: Life in the Dales, Reuben and Jess emphasize that their real life is anything but glamorous. Their days begin as early as 5am, filled with exhausting lambing shifts, daily farm chores, and occasional chaotic moments — such as the time they both tried to catch the same sheep and ended up letting it escape.

“There isn’t much partying. More 5am starts,” Reuben noted honestly. However, they both agree that having each other makes the demanding lifestyle worthwhile. In one another, they have found a true partner who understands and appreciates the beauty and hardships of farming life.

As they settle into this exciting new phase, fans can look forward to seeing more of their relationship unfold on screen. The new series of Reuben Owen: Life in the Dales is set to premiere on Channel 5 on May 5, offering viewers an intimate glimpse into their romance, the daily realities of farm life, and plenty of adorable moments with their beloved pet lamb, Fluff.

This young couple’s journey serves as a refreshing reminder that sometimes the simplest kind of love — rooted in hard work, shared dreams, and a deep connection to the land — can be the most meaningful.