Retire to Lancaster
Known as a ‘small city with a big story’, Lancaster has all the modern-day conveniences you need to enjoy retirement—with the surprisingly charming atmosphere of a countryside town.
Local retirees enjoy:
- A serene atmosphere with plenty of sights, attractions, and culture, creating the perfect mix of lively events and entertainment without the hustle and bustle of a larger city.
- Walks through the surrounding countryside and the Trough of Bowland, the beach at Sunderland Point, or beside the famous Lancaster Canal.
- Taking in shows at Lancaster Grand Theatre, who regularly host live shows for music, comedy, and theatre enthusiasts.
1 retirement developments near Lancaster
Williamson Court | Lancaster
Retirement Living Plus- Properties 2 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Purchase from £100,000
- Rent from £2,100 pcm
Explore places in the Lancaster area
Retirement living in Lancaster
Lancaster perfectly balances traditional English charm with the vibrance of a city. Local seniors enjoy the slower pace of life compared to larger cities, while there are still plenty of events, amenities and activities to keep you busy throughout the year.
Local amenities
Lancaster has all the amenities you need to enjoy retirement in the city without worrying about your health or weekly shopping needs. The city centre has most essentials within walking distance of each other.
- Groceries - Sainsbury’s, Booths, and Asda all supply the city with fresh produce, food and drink.
- Healthcare - The nearest hospital with an A&E department is The Royal Lancaster Infirmary, two minutes drive from the city centre. Several GP surgeries, pharmacies and dentists serve the city centre as well.
- Shops - The high street has plenty of brand-name favourites like Primark and Boots, as well as unique boutiques and niche independent shops. Several shopping centres and arcades serve as hubs of commerce throughout the city centre.
Activities for retirees in Lancaster
Lancaster has been a settlement since Roman times, and there is plenty of history to explore throughout the city, from the Lancaster Canal that flows within and around the city to the 200 year old Lancaster Grand Theatre that still operates today.
Here are a few highlights:
- Visit the historical buildings in and around the city, like Lancaster Castle, Lancaster Priory Church, the Maritime Museum, and Lancaster City Museum.
- Canal boat tours operate from May to October, a great way to enjoy the city and surrounding greenery from the water.
- Lancaster U3A offers plenty of more specific interest groups that run regularly and offer regular opportunities to meet new people and refresh your skills or learn new hobbies.
Enjoy an active retirement in Lancaster
Your retirement in Lancaster won’t be lived in the four walls of a retirement home—you’ll have plenty of opportunities to get out and about and involve yourself with the local community.
Various community centres run regular activities and events where you can meet other locals, while a number of annual festivals and fundraisers also support the area.
If you fancy a break from the busy atmosphere of the city, the Forest of Bowland is less than an hour away, and has been designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Likewise, the world-famous Lake District is just under 30 minutes away. Both areas offer blissful walking trails through some of the most stunning scenery in the country.
Transport links and connections
Transport links are plentiful throughout the city centre, while the nearest airports in Manchester are just under two hours away, making it relatively easy to plan holidays abroad.
- By car - The M6 runs beside Lancaster, connecting the city to Kendal, Penrith, Preston, Wigan and Warrington.
- By bus - The local bus network runs regularly throughout the day, keeping the city connected but also supplying travel to Garstang, Morecambe, and Kendal, among others.
- By rail - Lancaster train station offers regular and direct services to Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Birmingham, and London Euston.
Homeowner testimonials: telling it like it is
We believe we create great places to live. Beautiful award-winning retirement apartments in brilliant locations with thoughtful, reassuring, services on tap and a thriving friendly community on the doorstep.
But what do people living in our communities think? We regularly ask for feedback on everything from the sales and moving in process to the lifestyle and services. Here’s what our homeowners have to say:
McCarthy & Stone recommended an estate agent as well as a solicitor and a removals firm, which all worked out really well and took the stress out of moving. Everyone is so friendly. It has been a great tonic for me.
George, homeowner, Brideoake Court
Browse by Retirement Living services
Our retirement developments offer differing amenities and assisted living services. Choose from two options to find your perfect fit.
Retirement Living
Low-maintenance independent living for people aged 60 and over, with a House Manager on-site and a friendly community on the doorstep.
Retirement Living Plus
Independence combined with assisted living for people aged 70 and over, including an Estate Manager, on-site restaurant and optional personal care.
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