Best coastal retirement towns

For many, moving to the seaside during retirement years is a dream - the feeling of waking up every morning to lovely views and the sound of gentle waves is an ideal reward for years of hard graft.

Fortunately for us in the UK, we are surrounded by options in which to do this, with attractive and idyllic coastal retirement towns in every direction across the country. With so many to choose from, it can sometimes feel overwhelming to decide where to look. So here’s a handy guide to some of the best coastal retirement towns in the UK.

3 benefits of living by the sea

1. You are more likely to exercise

While certain water sports may become more difficult as we head into retirement years, there are still many ways to stay active by the sea. Research has shown that those who are close to the coast are more likely to go walking than those who live inland.

The sea is also nature’s swimming pool, and there are specific health benefits associated with choosing to swim outdoors as opposed to the indoor version. Sea water acts as a gentle exfoliant to your skin, which can potentially improve skin conditions and even reduce signs of aging. But more than this, early research suggests that immersing yourself in cold water could slow the onset of dementia.

2. It makes us calmer

Multiple research studies have shown that just looking and hearing the waves is enough to help de-stress. One study showed that the sound of waves relaxes people more than soothing music, while Dr Matthew White, from the BlueHealth research initiative, suggested that the gentle and non-threatening nature of waves helps people to focus on external things, rather than internal issues.

3. Cleaner air = better sleep

A combination of the two previous points means that this next one feels inevitable – you sleep better. A 2015 study by the National Trust revealed that walkers who live by the sea sleep, on average, 35 minutes longer the night after a hike than those who live inland.

While a more relaxed state is one reason why this might be the case, sea air is generally cleaner and fresher, which helps your body to absorb oxygen.

What makes a good coastal retirement spot?

To find a great place by the coast to visit on holiday is relatively easy to do; to find one to live in, however, requires a lot more investigation.

Central to this is finding a place that has year-round appeal, not just during the summer. So, a great coastal retirement town will ideally have more to offer than just a nice beach. This might include:

• Strong community
• Good transport links
• Access to Medical Care

As you head into retirement, it’s important to consider exactly what you want it to look like. Coastal towns cater to different lifestyles, whether you’re a nature lover, a creative person, or you prefer a relaxed environment.

4 great coastal retirement towns

Worthing

Worthing offers a lovely blend of long beaches, a diverse range of activities, and regular transport links to its busier neighbour, Brighton.

The pier in Worthing was voted Britain’s best in 2019, and it also boasts an historic dome cinema, while hiking enthusiasts benefit from having the South Downs National Park close by.

Check out this Retirement Living development in Worthing: Walnut Tree Place | Retirement Living | Worthing, BN12 6NT.

Southport

Only a 40-minute train ride from Liverpool, Southport has 22 miles worth of coastline to enjoy, making it an ideal place to relax and breathe in the sea air.

Southport is fantastic for nature lovers, with several parks and gardens dotted around the area, while the town centre offers a nice mix of independent shops and retail parks.

Check out this Retirement Living development in Southport: Hatherlow House | Retirement Living | Southport, PR9 9LR.

Poole

Poole stands out as a slightly pricier coastal area to live in the UK, but you get a lot in return. Being home to the largest natural harbour in Europe, the UK’s largest arts centre outside London, and close to the beautiful Sandbanks beach, Poole is surrounded by natural beauty and year-round appeal, with a plethora of activities available to you.

Check out this Retirement Living Development in Poole: Melton Court, Dorset | Retirement Living | Poole, BH13 6BH.

Falmouth

With a busy arts and culture scene and a selection of beautiful beaches in the area, Falmouth is building a reputation as one of England’s best coastal towns.

It boasts a rich maritime history, the third deepest natural harbour in the world, and a year-round events calendar to ensure there is always something to enjoy. It is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and scenic hiking opportunities.

Check out this Retirement Living development in Falmouth: The Fitzroy | Retirement Living | Falmouth, TR11 4FR.

Need help finding your perfect retirement home?

If you have found the perfect coastal town for you but are struggling to find a home in the area, then Autumna is on hand to help you explore your options. Retirement Living developments are ever evolving, and our directory has listings that suit every budget and specific requirement you may have.

You can browse the listings yourself, or you can request a free shortlist of retirement developments that match what you are looking for from our team of experts.

If you would prefer to speak to someone about your needs, call our advice line on 01892 335 330. It is open seven days a week. (8:30 am – 5:30 pm Mon-Fri, 10 am – 5 pm Sat, 10 am – 4 pm Sun).

Alternatively, you can email us at info@autumna.co.uk.