In the UK we are blessed with a spectacular variety of scenery, landscapes, coastline, cities and villages. Each of our 48 counties has its own character and many of them offer the ideal retirement combination of a relaxing environment with plenty to do when the mood takes you. This month we discuss our top picks for the best retirement locations in the UK.
Devon
A report from The Guardian found that elderly people living in Devon are the happiest in the country! Famed for its scenic views and warm temperatures, Devon is said to be the perfect spot for those who favour peace and quiet over a bustling city life!
With the spectacular stretches of English coastline, quaint and friendly seaside towns, excellent transport links and the temptation of Devonshire cream tea, what could be better than a peaceful life in Devon?
The Barton Group’s new park Devon Oaks which is close to Yelverton, on the south-western edge of Dartmoor, will offer a superb mix of tranquillity and convenience. Within easy reach of both Plymouth and the rural attractions of Dartmoor.
Somerset
Nestled on the south-west coast of England, Somerset offers an idyllic location for retirees seeking a tranquil living environment with beautiful views of both the countryside and coast. Foodies can sample the famed Somerset ciders, ale, fruit juices and of course cheese!
Wildlife watchers can flock to the various RSPB reserves with regular sightings of otters, water voles, bitterns, kingfishers, lapwing, redshank, snipe and herons.
Seascapes, Barton’s unique development in Somerset, is made up of 15 stylish homes, offering comfort and peace of mind with stunning panoramic views of the Bristol Channel.
Fife
This Scottish country is steeped in history, from colourful fishing to world-renowned golf courses. It’s perfect for those who want to get out and enjoy nature.
If you’re a culture vulture you won’t feel left out. Catch a play at the Victorian Adam Smith Theatre, take on the Scottish art at the Fraser Gallery or watch the competitors toss a caber at the Highland Games.
North Yorkshire
Historic market towns, spa towns full of independent retailers and beautiful country houses in scenic rural surroundings are abundant in North Yorkshire, and you’ll be guaranteed a friendly Yorkshire welcome
Harrogate is one of Yorkshire’s most elegant destinations, boasting impressive historic buildings and beautiful gardens. Visitors can indulge in an afternoon tea at the renowned Betty’s Tearoom or an evening champagne picnic in the floral Valley gardens.
For a perfect day out, visit the North York Moors and explore stunning coastal paths, roaming valleys and atmospheric pine forests. Top it all off with a hearty pub lunch in one of the pretty market towns of Malton or Pickering.
Norfolk
If you treasure wide open spaces then Norfolk is sure to be a hit, with its irresistible combination of impressive scenery, wonderful wildlife and over 90 miles of unspoilt coastline.
If in search of a traditional English seaside resort, Great Yarmouth, Cromer, Wells-next-the-Sea and Hunstanton are hubs of activity, perfect for a day out with the family!
Possibly Norfolk’s most famous feature, The Norfolk Broads, draw in over 8 million visitors a year – boat lovers can navigate the 125 miles of manmade waterways, taking in spectacular countryside and picturesque villages and towns along the way.
Nicknamed Nelson County, Norfolk is also the birthplace of Admiral Horatio Nelson, Britain’s greatest sea warrior. History buffs can visit Nelson’s birthplace, Burnham Thorpe, the quaint village which Nelson left at twelve for a life at sea.
The Lake District
The perfect pick for those with a love of the great outdoors, in 2017 The Lake District was named a UNESCO World Heritage site, joining global wonders which include the Taj Mahal, Machu Picchu and the Grand Canyon – quite an accolade! Boasting the triple crowns of the country’s largest National Park, highest mountain and biggest lake, the spectacular scenery of The Lake District is guaranteed to take your breath away!
The Lake District also comes highly recommended for history buffs, with many Roman remains, priories and abbeys and for those partial to fine dining experiences, there are plenty of impressive eateries and bars, plus four Michelin-starred restaurants to choose from!
Monmouthshire
This South-Eastern Welsh county offers a fantastic range of activities and noteworthy places. Coined the foot capital of Wales, Monmouthshire offers a fantastic array of culinary experiences – visit one of the two-Michelin starred restaurants, take a tour of one of the flourishing Welsh vineyards, see the grapes on the wine and sample the tempting tipples yourself!
You’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to exploring and shopping with travel links to Cardiff, Swansea and Bristol.
Lincolnshire
There’s certainly plenty on offer in England’s second-largest county. The buzzing city of Lincoln houses a fantastic cathedral, a thriving annual Christmas market which draws in crowds of over 250,000 every year and plenty of independent bars, restaurants and gift shops – the ideal destination for your city fix!
Those who favour the quiet life can retreat to the rolling Wolds of rural Lincolnshire, with sleepy market towns, picturesque walking routes and unique historic sites. For WW2 buffs, many of the county’s RAF stations can still be seen and some have visitor centres.
Cheshire
You won’t be short of activities in this impressive county in the North West. Cheshire is famed for its impressive stately homes and buildings, glorious public gardens and over 2,000 years of history to get stuck into! Cheshire has a selection of fabulous hotels, restaurants and spas on offer.
Wherever in this wonderfully varied country you choose to settle into your retirement years, residential and holiday parks offer their residents peace, comfort and security in quiet locations close to local amenities and public transport. The like-minded residents form a friendly retirement community who appreciate the ease and comfort of living on a retirement park. Whether it’s peace and quiet or the buzz of city life, you’re sure to find what you’re looking for.