Our top 5 recommended rental retirement villages in the South West
From Somerset and Cornwall to Devon and Dorset, the South West is home to some of the UK’s most beautiful coastlines and stunning scenery. Add in the region’s rich history, charming villages and delicious local produce, and it’s no wonder the West Country is such a popular choice amongst retirees.
Retirement Villages in the South West
If you have decided to move to and rent in this beautiful part of the country, you may be struggling to find your ideal property or retirement village in the South West. Should you relocate to the Wiltshire city of Salisbury? Taunton in Somerset? Or the Devonshire city of Exeter?
To help, we’ve compiled our top five recommended cities and locations for rental retirement villages in the South West, to help you find your perfect retirement rental.
#5: Gloucester
Sitting between the Forest of Dean and the Cotswolds, Gloucester is ideal if you love being near nature. The Forest of Dean covers more than 110 square kilometres and is one of the oldest woodlands in England, while the Cotswolds span over 2,000 square kilometres with rolling hills and meadows just waiting to be explored.
If you prefer the bustle of the city then Gloucester has much to offer. This includes a vibrant arts scene, the historical Roman town of Cirencester and fantastic shopping destinations such as the Gloucester Quays. You can spend your time visiting the city’s ancient cathedral, taking beautiful canal walks or relaxing at Gloucester Docks.
Outside of the city there are plenty of villages and historic sites. This includes the charming villages of Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold and Painswick. Additionally, there are dozens of historic mansions and castles in the area, with National Trust sites at Dryham Park, Snowshill and Chedworth Roman Villa.
Interested in retiring in Gloucester? Find out more about our Gloucester retirement apartments and other properties to rent.
#4: Exeter
Exeter is a firm favourite with those seeking a peaceful retirement. Located in the heart of Devon, Exeter dates back to the Roman period and vestiges of its ancient roots can still be seen across the city, including the old city walls, Exeter Castle and a gothic Norman cathedral.
To the south sits Exeter Quayside, a waterfront that combines history with some of the Exeter’s best shops, pubs and cafes. Being so close to the water, this city is known for its outdoor activities and water sports. Alternatively, you can learn more about Exeter’s history by joining the free Red Coat Guided Tours.
Outside of Exeter there are plenty of green areas to visit. Dartmoor National Park lies just over 20 miles away, where you can find beautiful moorlands, river valleys and an abundance of wildlife. Travel across the county to visit Devon’s 120 beaches or walk along the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
If Exeter sounds like the perfect choice for you, take a look at our rental properties in this popular part of the South West.
#3: Salisbury
The beautiful city of Salisbury is filled with charming historic streets and medieval architecture. Situated in Wiltshire, it’s the perfect South West location if you’re looking for a city that combines history, museums and ancient sites with galleries, restaurants and shopping.
One of Wiltshire’s most famous monuments is Stonehenge, just 17 miles from the city centre. If you prefer to stay inside the city, there’s plenty of history for you to discover. Sites include Salisbury Cathedral, where you can take the ‘Tower Tour’ and climb 332 steps to the top of the UK’s tallest spire.
If shopping is your idea of fun, then you will be spoilt for choice in Salisbury. You can discover unique finds at farmers markets or shop high street brands at the Cross Keys Shopping Centre. Alternatively, head into the countryside for some of the county’s woodlands, country parks and landscaped gardens.
Find out more about our Salisbury rental retirement apartments and properties.
#2: Taunton
Situated in Somerset, the city of Taunton has a history that spans over one thousand years, and its past can still be seen in its 10th century Taunton Castle. Today, Taunton is a favourite, with history enthusiasts being drawn to its museums, historical houses and ancient architecture.
The South West of England is synonymous with beautiful beaches and Taunton has plenty to choose from. In fact, this city boasts 34 beaches, from the stretches of sand at Berrow Beach, to the waterfall at St Audries Bay.
In the surrounding county there is plenty to see and do. Take a day trip to Cheddar Gorge, an ancient limestone canyon with a variety of trails and walks; head to Wookey Hole Caves, a site that has over 60,000 years of human history; or visit one of the National Trust’s properties such as the ancient Dunster Castle and Watermill.
At McCarthy Stone, we have a variety of apartments for sale and properties available for rent in retirement villages in the south west, including Taunton and Somerset.
#1: Poole
Poole is a popular location, both with tourists and those looking for a new adventure. Located in the county of Dorset, Poole sits to the east of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Jurassic coast spans 95 miles, with walks and trails that stretch from Dorset to East Devon.
The city itself has a rich maritime history. It’s home to the largest natural harbour in Europe and boasts a historical old town, quayside and beautiful beaches. In fact, Poole’s beaches have retained Blue Flag status for over 25 years, with some of its most popular including Sandbanks and Canford Cliffs.
If it’s greenery you’re looking for then Poole could be the place for you. This city has numerous parks and green areas, from Compton Acres with its landscaped gardens and tea rooms, to Poole Park golf course and water sports centre.
Browse our selection of rental retirement developments in Poole.
Retirement rentals in the South West
As our top five locations to retire show, the South West really does have something to offer everyone in terms of retirement villages and rental properties, whether you’re looking forward to an active retirement or relaxing afternoons by the sea.
To help make your search easier, be sure to click some of the links above, or take a look at what we currently have available in the South West. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team.
