Top places to retire in the East of England

Collaborative Post |There are lots of things to consider when choosing a location to retire, such as distance from loved ones and your budget. However, quality of life is important too, and you may be wondering whether it’s best to live in a country village, coastal town, or busy city.

One area of the UK that is becoming popular among retirees is the East of England as it offers pretty much every type of living you would want, from peaceful seaside towns to cities with a fascinating history. It also presents more affordable options compared to other parts of the UK, making it an attractive choice for those who need to be mindful of their spending.

In this article, we cover three locations within the East of England that stand out as top choices for retirement.

Photo by Jean-Luc Benazet on Unsplash

Cambridge

Cambridge is a city that needs no introduction. Thanks to its prestigious university colleges and stunning architecture, it’s one of the UK’s most historic places. The city came out on top as the best city for retirees, especially for things like Crime Index and life expectancy.
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The surrounding villages of Grantchester and Histon are also great choices, offering a quieter lifestyle while still being close to the city. For those looking to travel during retirement, Cambridge has many lock-up-and-leave properties, allowing you to go see the world while everything is taken care of for you at home.

Suffolk

Famed for its chocolate box villages and pretty coastline, Suffolk offers a quiet way of life that is anything but dull. It was named as the best place to retire in the UK several years ago and it’s easy to see why. Whether you’d prefer to explore wild beaches, head out on a country stroll, or have a look around an Anglo-Saxon burial ground, Suffolk has it all.

The county town of Suffolk, Ipswich, is also a great spot for retirees. Not only is it affordable but you’ve got the same coastal lifestyle as other famous towns, as well as a foodie culture and maritime history. Ipswich has always been a ‘one to watch’ and has recently seen an increase in development, including a larger range of dining options, excellent transport connections, and a range of modern new build homes.

St Albans

Located in Hertfordshire, St Albans has been crowned as one of the best places to live in 2024 due to its wealth of historic attractions and thriving community. It is a highly sought-after location with some very impressive houses to choose from, including retirement villages and bungalows.

There is plenty in the community to get involved with here, such as senior social clubs, which cover a wide range of activities from quizzes to crafts and food tasting. Aside from this, St Albans is surrounded by incredible countryside and features a scenic walking route down the River Ver.


Disclaimer: this is a collaborative post.