The market town has been crowned England’s top retirement destination in a new study, offering affordable care, stunning scenery and a wealth of activities
Oliver Radcliffe Live News Reporter and Jane Lavender
08:00, 24 Dec 2025
The town is just 30 minutes from Manchester(Image: Getty)
After years of hard graft, often in the heart of Britain’s bustling cities, it’s hardly surprising that many retirees crave a quieter existence, trading urban life for tranquil hills and fresh air.
While UK coastal towns have traditionally been a sanctuary for many pensioners, England’s top retirement spot might actually be nestled inland, swapping the brisk sea breeze for the refreshing mountain air of the Peak District.
Research conducted by retirement specialists at Taking Care suggests that the charming market town of Glossop is actually England’s prime location for retirement.
Situated on the fringe of the national park and boasting a convenient 30-minute commute into Manchester, this town offers an ideal backdrop for those seeking to relax after a hectic city life.
The study took into account various factors, from life expectancy and property prices to the average cost of care homes, should they become necessary.
Beyond these basic statistics, the research also considered the amount of green spaces, bingo halls, English Heritage properties, and other leisure options.
Glossop has been named the best place to retire in England(Image: Derby Telegraph)
With a population just over 22,000 according to the 2021 census, Glossop may be on the smaller side. However, it still provides a plethora of activities, with parks and green spaces scattered around the town.
For those with a penchant for adventure, a short drive further into the Peak District unveils stunning landscapes and numerous gentle, paved routes that won’t leave you feeling worn out for a week.
Another notable benefit of Glossop is its affordable care. The average annual care cost stands at a modest £37,000, significantly less than many of the more sought-after options in the south, where care can be nearly £10,000 pricier, such as Alresford.
With a life expectancy just below 85, four years above the national average, it seems there’s something beneficial about the fresh peak district air.
In other parts of the ranking, the Welsh seaside town of Llandudno takes the top spot across the UK. With high scores for its lifestyle, green spaces and abundance of chip shops, the Welsh town narrowly outdid Glossop to first place by a mere 0.1%.
While scenic North Wales may offer the ideal setting for retirement years, Scotland appears to have emerged as one of the least favourable choices, particularly its capital.
Among all the locations assessed, Edinburgh ranked last with an average life expectancy of 79 and an overall lifestyle rating of 3.8/10, suggesting that city living can come with a cost.
The city also proved to be expensive, with annual care costs in the area nearing an average of £40,000, alongside just one care facility for every 778 elderly residents.
The top 10 places to retire and their Taking Care scores are:
- Llandudno – 52.8
- Glossop – 52.7
- Southport – 50.4
- Ramsbottom– 49.7
- Saffron Walden – 48.7
- Tynemouth -47.1
- Ilfracombe – 46.4
- Bradford – 45.7
- Falmouth – 43.6
- Alresford – 43.3