Ideal for embracing your golden years in style…
According to recent statistics, British interest in overseas retirement has surged dramatically, with Google searches on the topic climbing by 30% compared to 2023 figures—revealing a growing exodus of UK citizens looking to spend their golden years beyond British shores.
However, Britain is a great place to retire itself. Indeed, whether you’re a countryside enthusiast, a cultural connoisseur, a passionate gardener, a coastal wanderer, or simply love to gaze over rolling green hills with a cup of tea in hand, the United Kingdom has got you covered for your retirement years.
If you’re mulling over where to hang your hat (or park your slippers) for your golden years, consider this – earlier this year, the Telegraph created a list of the top ten best places to retire in the country and it seems that the south of England is home to many ideal places to live in and enjoy as a retiree.
And these are them…. the 10 best places for retirees to settle in the UK, IDEAL for embracing your golden years, in style…
Practical Considerations
But first, be aware that the practical considerations – energy costs, service charges, healthcare access – matter as much as the aspirational vision, of course. And for most of us, proximity to family often becomes the deciding factor when the romantic notion of retiring to distant shores meets the reality of wanting to see grandchildren grow up.
If you’re contemplating retiring to the UK from overseas, it’s worth noting that metropolitan areas tend to offer the most diverse and welcoming environments. Cities like London and its surrounding boroughs feature thriving international communities with cultural amenities to match, while cathedral cities like Exeter and Worcester strike a balance between quintessential British charm and cosmopolitan sensibilities. Rural villages, though picturesque, typically have smaller international populations , so if connecting with fellow international retirees matters to you, or a UK immigration lawyer for that matter, urban locations will likely serve you better.
Merton, South West London
Ideal for a village feel with city access…
Fancy London life without the chaos? Merton might just be your perfect match. A stone’s throw from Wimbledon Common’s leafy expanses and just 20 minutes by Tube from the West End, this borough masters the balancing act between urban convenience and suburban calm.
The streets here have a village-like tranquility that belies their London location, with independent cafés where baristas remember your order and bookshops where you can actually find a seat. Merton attracts plenty of retired professionals who aren’t quite ready to leave London behind but fancy somewhere their blood pressure won’t spike every time they step outside.
Come summer, you’ll find plenty of fellow retirees volunteering at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships – a brilliant way to be part of something prestigious while making new friends. The Common provides the perfect setting for those doctor-recommended daily walks, while the borough’s leisure centres run everything from aqua aerobics to tai chi classes aimed at the over-60s.
Travel buffs love the transport links – you can reach Gatwick Airport in under an hour, making those European city breaks or visits to far-flung family refreshingly straightforward. Meanwhile, Merton’s community centres host everything from ballroom dancing to watercolour classes, ensuring your social calendar remains as busy as you want it to be.
Kingston-upon-Thames, South West London
Ideal for riverside retirement…
Kingston combines retail therapy with riverside relaxation – a winning formula for those seeking retirement without compromise. This ancient market town has reinvented itself as an upmarket shopping destination while preserving its historic character and Thames-side charm.
The pedestrianised town centre makes shopping a pleasure rather than an obstacle course, while the riverside pubs and restaurants offer perfect spots for long lunches watching the world (and boats) go by. Bushy Park and Richmond Park provide vast green spaces right on your doorstep – ideal for maintaining that active lifestyle doctors keep recommending.
The Rose Theatre hosts world-class productions while water enthusiasts can join Kingston Rowing Club’s programmes for older beginners or simply enjoy the regular Thames cruises departing from the picturesque riverbank.
For those keen to keep their minds active, Kingston University runs excellent Learning in Later Life courses specifically designed for retirees – from art appreciation to digital skills. Travel becomes effortless with Heathrow Airport just a short drive away, while the Thames offers a novel commute into central London via riverboat – certainly more scenic than the Northern Line.
Exeter, Devon
Ideal for countryside and coastal living…
There’s so much more to Exeter than its magnificent cathedral. Boasting a perfect location betwixt rolling Devonshire countryside and the stunning Jurassic Coast, Exeter offers retirees the ideal balance of rural tranquility and urban convenience. With its compact, walkable city centre and excellent public transport links, it’s an incredibly accessible place to navigate in your later years.
Because it’s home to a prestigious university, cultural amenities abound here, from theatres and museums to literary festivals. The Royal Albert Memorial Museum provides year-round intellectual stimulation, whilst the weekly farmers’ markets offer the freshest local produce Devon has to offer.
Active retirees will find Exeter perfectly positioned for exploring the South West. The city serves as an excellent base for day trips to Dartmoor National Park, where gentle rambles or more challenging hikes await depending on your fitness level.
For those passionate about horticulture, nearby RHS Garden Rosemoor offers both inspiration and regular gardening workshops specifically designed for older enthusiasts. The University of Exeter’s programme of public lectures and adult education courses provides ample opportunity for continued learning and personal growth, with many retirees enrolling in everything from art history to creative writing.
For those considering the practicalities, the property market here offers better value than many southern locations, with two-bedroom bungalows ranging from £250,000-350,000 in pleasant residential areas. Exeter St David’s station provides regular services to London and other major cities. Local estate agents often highlight the strong demand for retirement properties, so it’s worth registering your interest early.
Read: Where to eat in Dartmouth
Richmond-upon-Thames, South West London
Ideal for riverside elegance…
Sure, Richmond can be expensive. And yes, the property prices here are amongst the highest in the UK. But Richmond is popular and keenly priced for a reason.
Well, several reasons, actually; it’s an eminently beautiful borough, served by some fantastic restaurants, and offers one of the most picturesque stretches of the Thames in London. Richmond Park, in particular, is revered across the world for its wildlife and ancient trees.
The borough is supremely well connected to both central London and the countryside by public transport, with Richmond station offering Underground, Overground and National Rail services. Central London is just 20 minutes away via direct trains, while you can be in Windsor in under an hour without having to change. To the south, the glorious Surrey Hills are easily accessible for day trips.
Richmond offers a wealth of activities perfectly suited to retirees with diverse interests. For green-fingered retirees who love to garden as a hobby, Richmond’s microclimate is surprisingly gentle, allowing you to grow plants that would sulk elsewhere in London. The borough’s active horticultural society runs talks and garden visits, while Kew Gardens sits just across the river – get yourself an annual membership and you’ll have changing seasonal displays to enjoy each week. For those seeking cultural stimulation, Richmond Theatre presents a year-round programme of plays, musicals and talks, with special matinee performances and seniors’ discounts
The Thames Path offers gentle daily exercise with benches strategically placed for admiring the view (or catching your breath). Meanwhile, Richmond Theatre’s programme of matinee performances means you can enjoy West End quality shows without negotiating public transport after dark.
Read: The best restaurants in Richmond
Epsom & Ewell, Surrey
Ideal for downsizing with dignity…
Nestled between London’s southern edge and the North Downs’ gentle slopes, Epsom and Ewell offers that rare combination – peaceful surroundings within striking distance of the capital.
Famed for its racecourse, home of the Derby, and its historic connections to the spa industry (Epsom salts originate here), this area offers a perfect balance for those seeking a quieter pace without sacrificing amenities. The excellent high street provides all essentials, whilst the transport links to London (about 30 minutes by train) mean cultural experiences are never far away.
The area excels in catering to the active retirement lifestyle. Epsom Downs provides miles of scenic walking routes suitable for all fitness levels, with many retirees joining the regular guided walks organised by local conservation groups. The borough’s well-established University of the Third Age (U3A) chapter offers over 100 different interest groups, from language learning to photography, all led by and designed for retired individuals.
Epsom’s proximity to both London and Gatwick Airport makes it ideal for retirees who plan to travel frequently, whether for international adventures or regular visits to grandchildren. The local library hosts regular book clubs and craft circles particularly popular with the retired community, while the Epsom Playhouse offers a varied programme of entertainment, from touring plays to musical performances.
Worcester, Worcestershire
Ideal for cathedral city charm…
Sitting on the banks of the River Severn, Worcester is known as one of the most liveable cathedral cities in England, with its magnificent medieval architecture a delightful backdrop to daily life in retirement.
The city is famed for its porcelain heritage, cricket ground, and the imposing Worcester Cathedral, which dominates the skyline. It’s these cultural touchpoints, combined with excellent healthcare facilities and relatively affordable housing, that make Worcester increasingly attractive to retirees seeking a balance of history, culture and practicality.
For those with a passion for the arts, Worcester’s thriving cultural scene offers regular opportunities for involvement and enjoyment. The Worcester Festival Choral Society welcomes enthusiastic amateur singers, while the Three Choirs Festival provides world-class performances in the magnificent cathedral setting. History enthusiasts find tremendous satisfaction volunteering at the city’s museums and heritage sites, with many retirees becoming valued guides at Worcester Cathedral or the Museum of Royal Worcester.
The city’s flat terrain along the riverside makes it perfect for gentle cycling, with dedicated paths stretching for miles along the Severn – an ideal way for retirees to maintain fitness without high-impact exercise. Worcester’s central location in England also makes it an excellent base for exploring the country, with regular coach tours departing from the city to destinations across the UK and beyond.
Sutton, South West London
Ideal for suburban security…
Want all London’s benefits without the eye-watering property prices or hectic pace? Welcome to Sutton – one of the capital’s safest boroughs and a magnet for savvy retirees.
This suburban gem combines excellent transport links with abundant green spaces and a genuine community feel. The high street offers all the essentials without overwhelming you with choice, while Nonsuch Park provides acres of green tranquility for morning walks or afternoon picnics with the grandchildren.
Sutton punches above its weight with activities for retirees – the award-winning library service runs everything from author talks to craft workshops. . Health-conscious types appreciate the borough’s leisure centres, with their dedicated senior swimming sessions and fitness classes designed specifically for older adults.
The Sutton Seniors Forum gives retirees a voice in local decision-making while organising regular outings across London and beyond. For grandparents, Sutton’s excellent schools and family-friendly attractions like Honeywood Museum make it perfect for quality time with younger generations.
The borough has one of London’s highest concentrations of retired residents, meaning services are well-attuned to your needs. Factor in the Freedom Pass for free London travel, excellent healthcare provisions, and property prices that won’t devour your entire pension pot, and Sutton’s appeal becomes crystal clear.
Bromley, South East London
Ideal for space and greenery…
Straddling the border between London and Kent, Bromley offers retirees the best of both worlds – capital city connections with breathing space that’s increasingly rare within the M25.
This leafy borough boasts excellent shopping facilities, including the Glades shopping centre, alongside multiple parks and recreation grounds. Unlike much of London, properties here often come with proper gardens – a boon for green-fingered retirees or those who want space for grandchildren to run around during visits.
Bromley’s leisure facilities provide plenty of opportunities to stay active, with several golf courses offering seniors’ memberships and regular tournaments. For culture vultures, Bromley Little Theatre welcomes new members both on stage and behind the scenes – many retired professionals find new purpose in set design, directing or front-of-house roles.
The Churchill Theatre brings West End productions to your doorstep without central London hassles, while Bromley’s position on London’s edge makes day trips into the Garden of England delightfully straightforward. Many retirees join local walking groups exploring the North Downs Way and other Kent trails – perfect for combining exercise with socialising.
Bromley’s adult education service runs hundreds of daytime courses, from languages to computing skills, helping you master new abilities or revisit long-neglected interests. The borough has seen significant investment in public spaces and amenities in recent years, making it increasingly attractive to discerning retirees.
Read: The best restaurants in Deal, Kent
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
Ideal for cultural enthusiasts…
Looking for retirement with a dash of sophistication? Cheltenham delivers it in spades. This elegant spa town sits on the Cotswolds’ edge, offering gracious living against a backdrop of honey-coloured stone and regency crescents.
Cheltenham’s festival calendar keeps boredom permanently at bay – from horses (the famous Gold Cup) to literature, jazz to science, there’s always something happening. The town centre remains reassuringly flat and compact – a consideration not to be sniffed at when mobility might become a concern in later years.
Retirement here means access to outstanding cultural offerings year-round. The internationally renowned festivals attract visitors from across the globe, with many retirees volunteering as stewards or hosts, gaining privileged access to world-class events while making new connections. The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum welcomes volunteer docents, sharing knowledge with visitors and fellow enthusiasts.
Gardening enthusiasts find themselves well-placed for inspiration, with Hidcote Manor and Kiftsgate Court Gardens nearby, while Cheltenham’s parks department runs workshops for those looking to hone their horticultural skills. The Everyman Theatre’s community outreach programme offers retired people routes into production, whether your talents lie in administration, creativity or front-of-house charm.
Property options range from stunning (though certainly not cheap) regency apartments to purpose-built retirement developments with maintenance taken care of. The town enjoys excellent transport connections to Birmingham, Bristol and London, making family visits straightforward whether they’re coming to you or you’re heading to them.
Westminster, Central London
Ideal for urban sophistication…
Westminster retirement isn’t for wallflowers or penny-pinchers. This is for those who’ve worked hard, saved well, and refuse to shuffle off to a quiet corner in their later years. It’s retirement as reinvention, not retreat.
Living here means having London’s greatest hits on your doorstep – world-class museums, galleries, theatres and concert halls all within walking distance or a short bus ride. The concentration of medical facilities ensures top-quality healthcare, while the public transport network makes car ownership entirely optional.
Westminster offers cultural immersion for engaged retirees. The Royal Opera House, National Theatre and West End venues all offer daytime performances and senior discounts, while art lovers can indulge their passion with regular visits to the National Gallery or Tate Britain – many retirees become members or volunteer guides.
The area’s central location makes it ideal for lifelong learners – with prestigious institutions like the British Museum offering regular lecture series and the Royal Institution hosting its famous talks on every conceivable subject. For those keen to give back, the Houses of Parliament welcome older volunteers as tour guides, drawing on their life experience and knowledge.
Property here requires serious financial firepower, but downsizers from substantial family homes often find the trade of space for location makes financial sense. For those seeking active retirement with maximum cultural stimulation and minimum compromise on urban convenience, Westminster represents London living at its most refined.
The Bottom Line
Whichever corner of Britain beckons you, you’ll be joining a vibrant community of retirees redefining what this phase of life can be – active, engaged, and full of possibilities. After all, retirement isn’t about stopping – it’s about finally having time to start all those things you’ve been postponing for decades.
