England international Ellie Kildunne has signed with Bristol Bears for the 2026-27 Premier Women's Rugby season, confirming her departure from Harlequins. The World Cup winner arrives as one of the sport's biggest stars, having earned 62 caps and scored 48 tries for the Red Roses since her debut at 18.

Kildunne's decision follows England's fifth successive Grand Slam triumph at the Women's Six Nations, where she featured in every match and crossed for five tries. She admitted being 'gutted' initially about leaving Harlequins but recognized it was time for change. The full-back revealed she had considered Bristol previously but wasn't ready to relocate to the West Country.

Bristol's recruitment strategy focuses heavily on player marketability, having previously attracted Ilona Maher, Ruahei Demant and Louis Rees-Zammit. Kildunne cited the club's running rugby style and support structure as decisive factors. She joins England teammates Sarah Bern, Hannah Botterman, Abbie Ward and Lark Atkin-Davies at the Bears.

The eighth-placed club gains a proven winner who brings both elite performance and commercial appeal. Kildunne's partnership with emerging winger Millie David could prove particularly potent next season.