By The Sunday Post | Lifestyle & Legacy Desk
In what may be their most personal and heartfelt journey yet, beloved TV duo Declan Donnelly and Anthony McPartlin are preparing to take a six-month hiatus from their careers to fulfil a long-held dream — a grand European adventure with their mothers. But this isn’t just a luxury holiday. The pair are planning to do something along the way that is already being described as “a national moment of pride.”
👩👦 “Mum Comes First” — A Once-in-a-Lifetime Journey
Sources close to the duo have confirmed that Dec and Ant will begin their journey this autumn, accompanied by their respective mothers — Anne Donnelly and Christine McPartlin — both of whom played pivotal roles in their lives and careers.
“They’ve always said they owe everything to their mums,” a close friend shared.
“This trip is their way of saying thank you — not just with words, but with time, attention, and purpose.”
🗺️ 6 Countries, 6 Causes — A Legacy in Motion
More than a sightseeing tour, the itinerary will span six countries, with each stop dedicated to supporting a cause close to their mothers’ hearts:
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In Italy, they’ll fund the restoration of a historical Catholic orphanage Anne once visited.
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In Austria, they’ll sponsor music therapy sessions for elderly dementia patients.
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In France, they’re planning to surprise a rural village with a pop-up clinic for single mothers.
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In Spain, they’ll help launch a food relief programme.
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In Germany, they’ll donate books and tech to underserved classrooms.
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And in Ireland, they’ll complete the trip by planting a family-funded woodland dedicated to “mothers of Britain.”
Each project will be carried out anonymously or through local partners, as the pair reportedly have no interest in media attention during the trip.
🛑 Career Pause Confirmed
Ant and Dec are expected to step back from all filming and TV appearances during this six-month period. ITV has confirmed the pair will return in mid-2026.
“They’ve given decades of entertainment to the nation,” said one ITV executive.
“Now, they’re giving six months to the women who gave them everything.”
💬 Britain Reacts: “Sons of the Year”
The announcement has struck a chord with fans and families across the UK:
“This is what every mother dreams of — not just gifts, but real time and gratitude.”
“Dec and Ant are national treasures. But this proves they’re also just good sons with big hearts.”
“They’ve made us laugh for 20 years. Now they’ve made us cry.”
❤️ Final Word
In an age where fame often overshadows family, Declan Donnelly and Anthony McPartlin are reminding Britain of what really matters — not headlines, but home; not applause, but appreciation.
And as they cross the continent with their mums by their sides, they won’t just be making memories — they’ll be making a statement:
Gratitude is the grandest journey of all.