After years of working in bustling towns and cities, it’s no surprise that many retirees seek a more tranquil life. A recent study has pinpointed the perfect spot to enjoy some sea air and unwind after decades of work, with a Welsh seaside town being hailed as the best place for a serene retirement.
This year’s list, compiled by Taking Care, is topped by the Victorian seaside destination of Llandudno. This elegant town, nestled on the North Wales coast, clinched the top spot, outshining Glossop, Tynemouth and Ilfracombe. The study considered factors ranging from life expectancy to property prices to average care home costs, should they ever be required.
Beyond the core statistics, the study also factored in the amount of green spaces, bingo halls, English Heritage properties and other amenities that contribute to an entertaining lifestyle.
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With a population of just 19,700 according to the 2021 census, the town offers ample opportunities for socialising, but also plenty of quiet spots when you need a breather.
The town’s seafront is its heart, boasting a two-mile stretch of Victorian terraces intermingled with grand hotels, reports the Express.
The Mainstreet running through Llandudno town -Credit:Getty
There are numerous lovely shops, restaurants, churches, and museums to discover, and the pier boasts a selection of slot machines and a pub with views across the beach – something that residents are delighted to say feels like stepping back through time.
Ray, 80, who moved to Llandudno nearly three decades ago, told The Telegraph: “Living here is like going back 50 years. The older ladies still dress nicely. You can go out for walks after dark. There are no rough gangs going around swearing and fighting.”
Neighbouring Conwy can also offer a wonderful day out to wander around additional shops and boutiques with a far broader range available.
Helen Parkes, who relocated to the town with her family, added: “It’s [Llandudno] lacking in terms of retail and culture – Conwy next door has had more spent on it and has more independent shops – but living here, you do realise life’s not all about spending.”
North Wales has been named the UK’s best place to retire -Credit:Getty
Whilst charming North Wales may be the ideal setting for retirement, Scotland appears to have emerged as one of the poorest choices, especially its capital.
Among all the locations assessed, Edinburgh finished in bottom position with an average life expectancy of 79 and an overall lifestyle rating of 3.8/10, which demonstrated that urban living can exact a price.
The city also showed itself to be costly, with yearly care expenses in the city reaching nearly £40,000 on average, with only one care home for every 778 elderly residents.