One of four children, Evans was born in Sheffield but grew up in Ealing, west London.

As a teenager, her winning a creative writing contest earned her a screen test with the Rank Organization.

[3] After having bit parts in Lightning Conductor (1938) and Charley's (Big-Hearted) Aunt (1940), Evans entered the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art for training.

[3] Her work in Penny and the Pownall Case (1948) was praised in Monthly Film Review: "Peggy Evans ... is a sparkling heroine, who not only looks extremely attractive but acts with naturalness and charm as well.

Evans was married twice: to actor Michael Howard from 1949 to 1956; the union produced two children but ended in divorce.