When we travel, we often choose our destinations based on a series of criteria. For example, we look at the number of restaurants or bars in the area; the weather and general climate; proximity to the airport; green spaces or seaside areas, and so on. When those deciding to retire are searching for the place they’d like to live, they often look at similar aspects. Retirement Villages, a company providing independent retirement living options for those looking to enter the next stage of their lives, have looked at the most relevant factors for those settling down and scored places across the UK based on their findings. Instead of gathering data on hospitals and community halls, the company chose to consider aspects such as public transport, social activities and outdoor parks. Below, we reveal the 10 best places to retire in the UK for 2023. For more inspiration, see the best countries for Brits to retire in and the best places to live in the world.

9. Cardiff

The Welsh capital is a haven of history and culture with plenty of things to do. From the mystical red-turreted castle that seems like something straight out of a Disney movie to the host of independent restaurants cropping up around the city, this is a wonderfully soothing place to wind down and take your time exploring.

The 10 loveliest hotels in Wales

17 SLIDES

BY JUDE ROGERS

VIEW SLIDESHOW

8. Plymouth

This waterfront city began making a name for itself a few years back with the arrival of restaurants from renowned chefs including Marco Pierre White and Mitch Tonks. Plus, there are lots of pretty green spaces, cosy cafés and art galleries to pootle around on the weekends, and some of Devon’s loveliest hotels can be found nearby.

7. Reading

This Berkshire town may not seem the obvious spot for retirement – Reading is widely knownfor its eponymous music festival – but you might be surprised. What the town lacks in suitable entertainment for retirees, it makes up for in its proximity to London (around 25 minutes on the train) and cute countryside villages within driving distance.

~6. York

Ah, York. We’re in the midst of a prolonged love affair with this city, for its winding cobbled streets, historic taverns with squeaky hanging signs, a slew of Michelin-starred restaurants and towering Minster. From street food to ghost tours, you’ll never tire of things to do in York.

~6. Telford

In joint sixth place is Telford. Famous for The Iron Bridge (the world’s first iron cast bridge), the town can be found in Shropshire, a green corner of England in between Birmingham and Shrewsbury.

5. Warrington

Shouldered by Liverpool and Manchester, this industrial town is gainly popularity among those looking to live in a place with tightly knit communities, plenty of culture and proximity to two of England’s buzziest cities.

4. Gloucester

It’s no surprise this historic city comes in fourth place. Honey-hued buildings are emblematic of the area – drive beyond the city borders and you’re in the fairytale villages of the Cotswolds, with plenty of long, lush walks, excellent pubs and storybook hotels.

3. Warwick

Despite being largely known for its university, Warwick ranked third for top UK places to retire. Its ancient history places it among England’s more interesting locations, plus its pretty walking routes along the River Avon and lovely markets make it a perfect place to pad about on weekends.

2. Swindon

We were surprised by this second-place entry, but Swindon is rapidly becoming known for its excellent collection of galleries and museums, from the Museum of the Great Western Railway to the Swindon Museum & Art Gallery. The town also had the lowest crime rate of all entries.

1. Guildford

Only 27 miles from London, it’s no huge shock that Guildford is a great place for travelling to and from the capital visiting friends and family. It ranked highly in the survey’s National Trust category, with the most number of places for retirees to explore the local areas.