Arterton began her acting career in 2007 with a small role in the film St Trinian's. She gained recognition for her roles in the films Quantum of Solace (2008), Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time (2010), Clash of the Titans (2010), and Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters (2013).
Arterton has also had success on stage. She made her West End debut in 2008 in the play The Duchess of Malfi. She has since appeared in several other West End productions, including The Little Dog Laughed (2010) and Nell Gwynn (2016).
In 2010, Arterton won the BAFTA Rising Star Award. She has also been nominated for two Olivier Awards.
Some of Arterton's other notable film credits include Tamara Drewe (2010), The Disappearance of Alice Creed (2009), and Their Finest (2016).
In 2020, Arterton starred in the Netflix film The King's Man. She is set to star in the upcoming film The Pale Blue Eye.
Arterton is married to actor Rory Keenan. They have two children together.