Unveiling the best places to retire in the UK – does your city make the cut?
- TBA
- Aug 2, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 17
Retirement may not be on everyone’s mind, but it’s something that many more people are thinking about now. Investing in property is seen as one of the sure-fire ways to secure your future.
Besides from the financial implications, have you ever thought about where you’d like to retire?
Recently, the Daily Mail selected some of the best places in the UK to retire, considering factors like house prices, local amenities such as restaurants, shopping centres and other attractions such as historical sites. Surprisingly, Greater London made the list.
We’ll select some of the top destinations listed.
Retirement destinations
Bournemouth
Bournemouth, located on the south coast of Dorset, tops the list as the best place to retire. Known as a holiday town, it boasts seven miles of beaches and a pleasant climate compared to the gloomy weather of other parts of the UK.
Residents enjoy more sunshine and warm seawater. Importantly, the overall living standards are good, with excellent healthcare services. The average house price in Bournemouth is £362,889.
Canterbury, Kent
Canterbury in Kent is familiar to many, known for its UNESCO World Heritage sites and popular tourist spots. The average house price is £329,159.
Apart from affordable living costs, it offers excellent transport links, being just over 50 minutes from London.
Banbury
Banbury, a historic market town on the River Cherwell in Oxfordshire, offers a tranquil rural life with vibrant activities. The average house price here is £286,486.
Chester
Chester, a cathedral city on the River Dee in Cheshire, has an average house price of £305,334. It is known for its Victorian architecture, shops, and restaurants, and is close to the Welsh border.
Cheltenham
Cheltenham, a renowned spa town, has an average house price of £411,293. It’s famous for its cultural festivals, theatres, and museums, and is a popular spot for horse racing.
Key factors
Research shows that the best retirement spots often share many similarities: beautiful scenery, long coastlines, and peaceful villages. Excellent transport links for easy access to big cities also play a crucial role, reflected in their house prices.
Where is your ideal retirement location? Is it on this list?
How should I choose my retirement spot?
Price vs budget
Consider whether house prices match your budget. If you’ve lived in a big city like London, you might plan to sell your property and move to a more affordable area, leaving you with more pension funds.
Proximity to family
Many want to move closer to family post-retirement. If visiting family often is important, avoid relocating too far away.
Transport
Moving from a city with frequent public transport to a rural town with limited services requires preparation. If you have a car, it’s easier, but without one, good transport links are crucial for visiting family and social activities.
Medical & care facilities
If considering a place for long-term living, proximity to healthcare is vital. Living close to doctors or hospitals is beneficial.
Crime & Safety
While the UK is generally safe, selecting a low-crime area is important for a peaceful retirement.
Community
For an active social life, choose a place with ample community activities, or you might find even the most scenic location stifling.
Even if you’re young, don’t ignore retirement planning. The earlier you start, the more options you’ll have to fully enjoy the freedom that retirement brings.
