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There are many reasons why you might consider moving somewhere new in later life. Perhaps you’d like to be closer to family or adopt a new lifestyle in retirement. Or maybe you’re looking to downsize, making for the perfect opportunity to move somewhere you’ve always dreamed of.
However, with so many great relocation options countrywide, deciding where to settle can be tricky. With this in mind, we’ve partnered 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 public transport links and aims to provide high-quality, hassle-free living, without the stresses and burdens of traditional home-owning.
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1. Bristol
Named the second most liveable city in the UK by a recent study from consultancy firm PwC, Bristol is a vibrant hub with plenty to do.
The city is home to a diverse culinary scene – from The Harbourside’s critically acclaimed restaurants to the delicious street food stalls of St Nicholas’ Market.
There’s plenty for art and culture lovers, too. You can head to the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery to admire everything from ancient Egyptian artefacts to contemporary paintings – but the striking street art means the city itself is an exhibition.
And if the dramatic arts are more to your taste, the oldest continuously working playhouse in the English-speaking world, the Bristol Old Vic Theatre, will be on your doorstep.
What’s more, as a Bristolian, you can make the most of a range of seasonal events, like the Bristol International Balloon Fiesta. This mesmerising display combines artistic expression with engineering ingenuity and sees the sky fill with hot air balloons for a weekend each August.
If access to nature is important to you, there are some gorgeous green spaces in and around the city. Popular spots include the Ashton Court Estate and Leigh Woods near the Clifton Suspension Bridge. Bristol’s good train links also mean you can day-trip to stunning nearby seaside towns (like Portishead), and go further afield to the beaches of Devon and Cornwall.
The Vincent, Pegasus Homes’ later-living community in Bristol, is located in the city’s 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? If so, retiring in Wilmslow could be a great choice.
The biggest advantage of settling in Wilmslow is undoubtedly the location. Nestled between bustling Manchester (which is just 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. Though, the town itself has plenty to offer residents.
Wilmslow’s popular high street is home to lots of great places to shop, eat, and drink. The town is also famous for its monthly artisan market, often described as ‘the Spitalfields of the North West’. It involves over 120 traders, selling everything from organic produce to handmade jewellery.
The Rex, a luxury independent cinema, is also a popular attraction. Boasting some impressive Art-Deco architecture and furnishings, whether you enjoy new releases or classic films, you’re sure to find something to watch here. However, 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, just a short walk from the train station and high street.
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3. Cheltenham
Would you like to move somewhere that has a small-town vibe but plenty to do? If so, Cheltenham could be worth considering.
Between its beautiful green spaces and gorgeous Georgian buildings – with wrought iron balconies and stunning stucco facades – walking the peaceful streets of Cheltenham can be a calming and restorative experience. And, as the UK’s ‘most complete Regency-era spa town’, it’s bursting with interesting history, culture, and architecture.
Foodies can delve into Cheltenham’s vibrant culinary scene by discovering intimate gastro pubs and hidden bars. Or why not 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 Gallery and Museum for frequent exhibitions on fine art, archaeology, local history, and beyond. Cheltenham is also home to a lively calendar of seasonal events, including the world’s longest-running literature festival.
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 in Cheltenham. Latheram House is set in the heart of the town, while One Bayshill Road is located in Montpellier, one of Cheltenham’s most sought-after addresses. To hear from a Latheram House resident, check out Stella’s story.
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4. Lichfield
With its Tudor revival architecture and cobblestone streets, Lichfield is a quintessential English spot. And while it may feel like a mid-sized town, it’s actually a city due to its impressive three-spire cathedral.
Situated in the southeast of Staffordshire, this peaceful place has something for everyone. For those who love green spaces, Beacon Park sits under the shadow of the cathedral, with 70 acres of rich gardens and tree-lined paths to explore. You can head there for a stroll, a picnic, or a pedalo ride across the lake.
The town centre is home to plenty of charming independent cafes, bars, and restaurants, particularly on Dam and Bird Streets. Plus, the square hosts bustling markets throughout the week.
However, for culture seekers, the Lichfield Garrick is a flourishing theatre that hosts a variety of productions – from plays 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 so you can enjoy all of these attractions and more.
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5. Newcastle
It’s easy to see why Newcastle locals are so proud of their home. From its quiet, leafy suburbs to its energetic centre, this versatile city has something for everyone.
If accessibility is a top priority, look no further. Often described as ‘the smallest big city in the world’, Newcastle is unlike larger metropolises like London and Birmingham in that everything is within easy reach. Due to its compact size, it’s a great location for those who enjoy getting around on foot, but there’s always the extensive metro to zip you around if you don’t feel like walking.
The city’s impressive arts and culture scene revolves around institutions like the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art and the Theatre Royal. Of course, there’s also the iconic Sage Gateshead, which is just as famous for its stunning, curved architecture as it is for the international musical acts it hosts.
Foodies can choose from countless great spots to enjoy a delicious meal, coffee, or cocktail – plus, exciting seasonal events, including the popular Gin and Rum 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 sweeping scenic views await.
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 can get anywhere in the city and beyond with ease.
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6. Tetbury
If you’re looking to retire to a quintessential English hamlet surrounded by plenty of green space, this next suggestion could be for you.
Tetbury was a centre for the wool and yarn trade in the 16th and 17th centuries. With its stout weaver’s cottages and charming cobblestone streets, it’s changed very little since then in terms of architecture.
Strolling along Tetbury’s quaint 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 selling everything from jewellery and designer clothes to homeware and art. It’s also famous for its regal residents – the nearby Highgrove House being 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 located just moments from the town centre, with a train station also within easy reach.
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7. Surrey
Whether you’d like to fill your retirement with scenic walks in nature or days investigating 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 year.
But if culture and history are more your thing, there are plenty of fascinating sites to discover – from Hampton Court Palace to Brooklands Museum.
Another benefit of living in Surrey is that you’re within easy reach of London and various international airports. So, whether you’d like to catch a West End show or jet off on a city break, your options for adventure are endless.
There is a range of Pegasus Homes properties in Surrey. Why not check out Cobham Bowers, just a short stroll away from Cobham’s bustling town centre? Here, you can wander along the pretty River Bourne; get involved with the local football, rugby, cricket, tennis, and bowls clubs; or head for a pint in one of the welcoming pubs.
Alternatively, at Taylor Place, not only will you have Dorking on your doorstep – with its range of charming shops, cafes, and entertainment options (including the historic Dorking Halls) – but also the verdant tapestry of Surrey Hills.
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Final thoughts…
Whether you’re looking to move to a lively city or a peaceful town, we hope this list of seven places to retire in England has given you some inspiration for where to spend your next chapter.
Pegasus Homes create joyful communities in some of the most sought-after and convenient locations across England’s towns, villages, and coastlines. To find out more, visit their website using the button below.
Are you thinking about moving somewhere new after retirement? If so, have any of these locations inspired you? We’d love to hear from you in the comments below.