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There are lots of reasons why you might want to move somewhere new in later life. Perhaps you want to lead a different lifestyle once retired, be closer to family, or maybe you’re looking to downsize and want to use the opportunity to move somewhere that you’ve always dreamed of.
However, deciding which area of the country to settle down in can be tricky. With this in mind, we’ve teamed up with Pegasus Homes to suggest seven great places to retire in England.
Pegasus Homes build and manage beautiful later-living communities for people over 60 across England. Each development is well-located within walking distance of good public transport links and aims to provide high-quality, hassle-free living, without the stresses and burdens of traditional home-owning.
1. Bristol
Named the second most liveable city in the UK, Bristol is a vibrant hub with plenty to do.
For starters, the city is brimming with excellent places to get a drink or bite to eat – from the critically-acclaimed restaurants along The Harbourside to the delicious street food stalls of St Nicholas’ Market.
There’s also plenty for lovers of art and culture here. As well as the striking street art on every corner of the city, you can head to the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery to admire everything from ancient Egyptian artefacts to contemporary paintings. The Bristol Old Vic Theatre will also be on your doorstep, and as the oldest continuously working theatre in the English-speaking world, it’s worth a visit.
As a Bristolian, you’ll be treated to a wide range of seasonal events, like the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta – a mesmerising experience that combines artistic expression with engineering ingenuity and sees the sky fill with hot air balloons for a weekend each August.
And if access to nature is important to you, there are some gorgeous green spaces in and around the city. Popular spots include Leigh Woods by the Clifton Suspension Bridge and the Ashton Court Estate. Bristol’s excellent train links also mean you can visit stunning nearby seaside towns (like Portishead) with ease, as well as go further afield to the beaches of Devon and Cornwall.
The Vincent, Pegasus Homes’ later-living community in Bristol, is located in the north of the city in the tranquil Redland district, next to Clifton Downs.
2. Wilmslow
Picture the next chapter of your life. Does it involve a peaceful small-town atmosphere, becoming part of an engaging community, and lots of time spent outside in lush green spaces? If so, then retiring in Wilmslow could be a great choice.
The biggest advantage of settling in Wilmslow is undoubtedly the location. Nestled between the bustling hub of Manchester (which is only 15 minutes away by train) and the rolling wilds of the Peak District (half an hour in the car), you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
The town itself also has plenty to offer residents. In fact, as well as being home to a popular high street with lots of excellent places to shop, eat, and drink, Wilmslow is famous for its monthly artisan market, which is often described as ‘the Spitalfields of the North West’. It involves over 120 traders, selling everything from organic produce to handmade jewellery.
The Rex, the town’s luxury independent cinema, is also a popular attraction. Boasting some truly impressive art-deco architecture and furnishings, whether you enjoy new releases or classic films, you’re sure to find something to watch here. Though, if live performances are more your thing, you can visit The Green Room Theatre, where high-quality amateur productions are staged year-round.
Chapelwood, Pegasus Homes’ development in Wilmslow, is located in the centre of this charming town and is only a short walk from the train station and the high street.
No Stamp Duty - It's on Pegasus Homes
Make your move to a Pegasus Homes community by 31st March, 2025 and they will pay your Stamp Duty! For over 30 years, Pegasus Homes have been creating high-quality residences and thriving communities in England’s most inspiring locations.
3. Cheltenham
Would you like to move to a place that has plenty to see and do, but still retains that small-town feeling? If so, Cheltenham could be somewhere you might like to call home. As the UK’s ‘most complete Regency-era spa town’, it’s bursting with interesting history, culture, and architecture.
Between its gorgeous Georgian buildings – with wrought iron balconies and stunning stucco facades – and beautiful green spaces, walking the peaceful streets of Cheltenham can be a calming and restorative experience. Though, that isn’t to say that there isn’t plenty going on here.
For one, the town is home to a brilliant culinary scene. Discover intimate gastro pubs and hidden bars, or treat yourself to a fine dining experience at one of the town’s Michelin Guide-featured restaurants.
The famous Everyman Theatre on Regent Street is the beating heart of Cheltenham’s arts world. It hosts a wide range of productions year round – from drama and musicals to opera and ballet. Or, head to The Wilson for frequent exhibitions on fine art, archaeology, local history, and beyond.
Cheltenham is also home to a variety of lively seasonal events; the Literature Festival is particularly popular. Featuring an impressive nine-day programme, this celebration of the written word features appearances from some of literature’s heavy hitters, as well as plenty of activities for all ages.
And when you need to get some fresh air, you can stroll around the Imperial Gardens and admire the impressive floral displays, or hike up Cleeve Hill, the highest point in Gloucestershire, to take in the awe-inspiring views.
Pegasus Homes has two later living communities located in Cheltenham: Latheram House, which is set in the heart of the town, and One Bayshill Road, in Montpellier, one of Cheltenham’s most sought-after addresses. To hear from a Latheram House resident, why not check out Stella’s story?
4. Lichfield
With its Tudor white and black framed buildings and cobbled streets, Lichfield is a quintessential English spot. And although it may feel like a mid-sized town, it’s actually a city due to its impressive three-spire cathedral.
Situated in the South East of Staffordshire, this peaceful place has something for everyone. For those who love green spaces, under the shadow of the cathedral sits Beacon Park, 70 acres of rich gardens and tree-lined paths. You can head there for a stroll, a picnic, or, if the weather is nice, to ride a pedalo across the water.
The town centre itself is home to a variety of charming independent cafes, bars, and restaurants, particularly on Dam and Bird Streets. Plus, the town square plays host to bustling markets throughout the week.
Though, if culture is what you’re looking for, the Lichfield Garrick is a flourishing theatre that hosts a variety of productions – from West End plays like The Mousetrap to annual Christmas pantomimes.
The town itself is also conveniently located. If you’re in the mood for a day in the city, Birmingham is just over half an hour away by train. Or, if you feel like answering the call of the wild, just drive 15 minutes west and you’ll be in Cannock Chase, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Between its rolling heathland and towering forests, Cannock Chase offers spectacular scenery and plenty of wildlife.
Lichfield Bonds and Chapter House, Pegasus Homes’ later life communities in Lichfield, are perfectly situated in the town so that you can enjoy all of these attractions and more.
No Stamp Duty - It's on Pegasus Homes
Make your move to a Pegasus Homes community by 31st March, 2025 and they will pay your Stamp Duty! For over 30 years, Pegasus Homes have been creating high-quality residences and thriving communities in England’s most inspiring locations.
5. Newcastle
Newcastle is a versatile city; from its quiet, leafy suburbs to its energetic centre, it’s got something for everyone. So, if you’re looking for the ideal place to live in later life, why not consider this beloved Tyne-side spot?
If accessibility is a top priority for you, look no further. Often described as ‘the smallest big city in the world’, unlike larger metropolises like London and Birmingham, everything is in easy reach. This is thanks (in part) to the extensive metro system that threads its way under the city. Plus, you can walk to most places if you choose to.
If a vibrant art and culture scene is what you’re after, this jewel of the North East will also fit the bill. As well as the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, which hosts a wide variety of exhibitions, and the Theatre Royal, it’s also home to the Sage Gateshead. This is just as famous for its stunning, curved architecture, as it is for the gigs that are put on there.
For foodies, there are countless great spots to enjoy a delicious meal, coffee, or cocktail – with many boasting exquisite views of the Tyne. There are also some great seasonal events on offer, including a popular Gin and Rum Festival and the North East International Film Festival.
Despite its city status, Newcastle has plenty of beautiful parks and natural spaces too – the biggest of which is Town Moor towards the north, where you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the city.
Jesmond Assembly, Pegasus Homes’ later living community in Newcastle is situated in one of the city’s most sought-after suburbs. With a metro station only a few hundred yards away, you’ll be able to get anywhere in the city and beyond with ease.
6. Tetbury
Set deep in the Cotswolds, Tetbury is surrounded by spectacular natural beauty. If you’re looking to retire to an idyllic market town with plenty of green space around, this might be the place for you.
Tetbury is known for being a trading centre of wool and yarn in the 16th and 17th centuries and, with its stout weaver’s cottages and charming cobblestone streets, architecturally, it’s changed very little since then.
Strolling along the quaint Tetbury streets, you might feel like you’ve been transported back in time, but don’t be fooled – as the second largest town in the Cotswolds, there’s plenty going on here.
For example, Tetbury is well-known for its quirky boutiques that sell everything from jewellery and designer clothes to homeware and art. It’s also famous for its regal residents, as the nearby Highgrove House is the family home of King Charles III and Queen Camilla.
Surrounded by a web of walking trails, it’s easy to investigate the splendid forests and fields that lie nearby. And because of its relatively central Cotswolds location, Tetbury makes a perfect base from which to explore this idyllic corner of the country.
Steepleton, Pegasus Homes’ later living community in Tetbury, is conveniently located moments from the heart of the town. Plus, the community is within easy access of the closest train station.
No Stamp Duty - It's on Pegasus Homes
Make your move to a Pegasus Homes community by 31st March, 2025 and they will pay your Stamp Duty! For over 30 years, Pegasus Homes have been creating high-quality residences and thriving communities in England’s most inspiring locations.
7. Surrey
Whether you’re hoping your retirement will be filled with beautiful scenic walks in nature or days exploring England’s cultural heritage, Surrey has something for everyone.
Outdoor enthusiasts will be pleased to learn that Surrey is England’s most wooded county, boasting three national and 42 local nature reserves – perfect for exploring at any time of the year! If culture and history are more your thing, from Hampton Court Palace and Polesden Lacey to Brooklands Museum and Watts Gallery, there’s plenty to see.
Another great thing about living in Surrey is that you’re within easy reach of London, so if you’re missing the capital’s buzz, it won’t take you long to get your fix! Plus, there are various international airports within each reach too.
There’s a range of Pegasus Homes properties in Surrey. Why not check out Cobham Bowers which is just a short stroll away from Cobham’s bustling town centre? Here, you can wander along the pretty River Bourne; get active in the local football, rugby, cricket, tennis, and bowls clubs; and head for a pint in one of the welcoming pubs.
Or, at Taylor Place, in the Surrey Hills, not only will you have Dorking on your doorstep with its range of shops, cafes, and entertainment options (including the historic Dorking Halls), but you can enjoy heading out into the rolling hills for some fresh air and gorgeous views.
You can find more information about these retirement homes, as well as Pegasus Homes’ other later-living communities in Surrey, below.
Final thoughts…
Whether you’re looking to move to a lively city or a peaceful town, we hope that you’ve enjoyed our list of seven places to retire in England.
To find out more about Pegasus Homes’ communities, and to search available properties across the UK, why not head over to their website?
Did you move somewhere new after retiring? If so, where did you choose and why? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.