A local park close to Purley town centre with a group of people walking.

Retire to Purley

Prosperous Purley is surrounded by a wealth of natural green spaces, but within easy reach of both Croydon and central London. No wonder it’s a popular spot for retirement living.

Local retirees enjoy:

  • Easy access to amenities including, cafes, pubs, restaurants, shops, a library and healthcare. 
  • A thriving community spirit: Purley holds an annual community festival in Rotary Field with music, food, arts and crafts and more. 
  • A wide range of nature trails and woodlands to explore in the surrounding areas.
  • Sports and leisure facilities and a choice of picturesque golf courses. 
  • Fantastic transport links. By train you can reach Croydon in just 10-minutes, Gatwick Airport in under 20 minutes and central London in under 30 minutes.

6 retirement developments near Purley

Retirement living in Purley

Our retirement homes in Purley put you in the heart of this sought-after suburb with easy access to the stunning Surrey countryside and the world-class culture of central London.

A street in Purley town centre with shops and amenities close by.

Local amenities

Purley has a bustling town centre where you’ll find all the facilities you need for a happy retirement.

  • Groceries 
    In addition to supermarkets such as Tesco Express, Sainsbury’s Local and a large Waitrose, Purley has several independent greengrocers and bakeries. 
  • Shopping 
    You’ll find independent shops and high-street favourites in central Purley. However, for a huge range of shopping options head to nearby Croydon, for example, Valley Retail Park. 
  • Healthcare 
    Half a mile from the centre, Purley War Memorial Hospital offers outpatient services and minor injury care, while Croydon University Hospital (4 miles away) has a more comprehensive offering and an A&E. There are several GP practices including Woodcote Medical Practice and you’ll find dentists, pharmacies and opticians throughout the town.
Purley Downs Golf Club offering the peace and tranquility of the countryside.

Things for seniors to do in Purley

You’ll find plenty to do on your doorstep from our retirement apartments for sale in Purley.

Purley Park

Explore the surrounding areas

This sought-after suburb is a superb base for an active retirement, with plenty to do in areas close to our flats in Purley. 

  • Parks and nature 
    You won’t need to go far to enjoy green spaces, there are so many options! Purley Beeches offers parkland with public tennis courts. Foxley Wood is a nature reserve with pretty trails and Kenley Common has 139 acres of grassland, ancient woods and wildlife.
  • Arts and culture
    Pop into nearby Croydon and you’ll find a range of cinemas, arts venues and theatres, such as Fairfield Halls and The Cryer Arts Centre. Alternatively, you can be in central London in less than half an hour by train - putting world-class museums, art and performances within easy reach.
Red-brick exterior of Purley Station where people can catch trains to other towns and cities.

Transport and connections

Purley is particularly well-connected, making it easy to explore surrounding Surrey, Greater London and beyond.

  • By car 
    Purley is close to the A23 and M25, providing easy access to London, the South-East, and surrounding towns. 
  • By rail 
    Purley Station offers frequent services to London Bridge and Victoria and Gatwick Airport. You can also take the train to nearby towns such as Redhill, East Croydon, and Reigate. 
  • By bus 
    The town is well-served by buses, with services connecting to Croydon, Coulsdon, and other nearby areas. Free bus travel is available to seniors with the Freedom Pass.  
  • By air 
    Gatwick Airport is just 15 minutes away by train, so you can jet off on international holidays without lengthy airport transfers. 

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 in Purley FAQs

Yes, Purley Railway Station offers direct connections to London and Central Croydon, as well as nearby towns. The station is less than half a mile from our Medford House development - around a 10-15 minute walk.

Yes, Purley is the ideal place for people in their 60s, 70s and beyond to spend their retirement. The area has a close-knit community to get involved in, including clubs, events, and societies. The serene green spaces are perfect for staying active outdoors, while nearby London and Central Croydon offer all the additional benefits of city life.  

As Purley is a desirable location to live in, property prices and the cost of living are typically higher than the national average. However, it’s more affordable than central Croydon and Coulsdon. Many residents will agree that the great transport connections and high standard of local amenities make living in Purley worth it. McCarthy & Stone property prices in Purley are in-line with local property prices, with Shared Ownership and rental options available to help you move into your dream retirement home.  

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