Retire to Stow-on-the-Wold
The desirable market town of Stow-on-the-Wold is set amongst beautiful Cotswold scenery in Gloucestershire. Known for its well-maintained historic architecture, Stow-on-the-Wold is a fond reflection of times gone by, while providing plentiful access to modern pleasures and conveniences.
Local retirees love:
- The friendly, tight-knit community.
- Relaxed and peaceful pace of life.
- Great access to healthcare services.
- Endless opportunities to take in the countryside landscapes on walks.
- Independent cafés, shops, and farmers’ markets for local produce.
2 retirement developments near Stow-on-the-Wold
Hawkesbury Place | Stow-on-the-Wold
Retirement Living Plus- Properties 4 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Shared Ownership 75% example share/no rent £135,000
Keatley Place | Moreton-in-Marsh
Retirement Living- Properties 1 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Rent from £1,725 pcm
Explore places in the Stow-on-the-Wold area
Retirement living in Stow-on-the-Wold
The charming stone-brick architecture and friendly community in Stow-on-the-Wold creates a welcoming, warm, and homely atmosphere for all those who settle here. Discover the wonders and practicalities this wonderful town has to offer.
Local amenities
Though quiet, Stow-on-the-Wold’s town centre has all you need in a compact package, making it a practical and comfortable place for day-to-day life.
- Groceries - The centre has a Co-op and Tesco Express for everyday shopping. You can also find local produce at the regular farmers’ markets.
- Shopping - Discover independent shops, bookshops, and quaint antique stores and art galleries.
- Healthcare - Stow Surgery has a great reputation for GP services, while there are dentists and pharmacies in town for additional support.
- Hospitals - The closest hospital for outpatient and minor injury services is North Cotswolds Hospital in Moreton-in-Marsh, just 6 miles away. Cheltenham General Hospital (30 minutes away) and Gloucester Royal Hospital (55 minutes away) offer more comprehensive services.
Activities for retirees in Stow-on-the-Wold
This beautiful town is far from sleepy, with a thriving and engaged community offering a wide range of events and groups to get involved in.
- Join local clubs and groups for all interests, such as history societies, art groups, and book clubs.
- Those seeking more outdoorsy activities can get involved with walking groups, gardening clubs, and the odd game of bowls.
- The local village hall hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, such as film nights, fitness classes, craft fairs, and coffee mornings.
- The annual Music at Stow Festival is an exciting affair with a diverse lineup of classical, jazz, and contemporary music performances.
Enjoy an active retirement in Stow-on-the-Wold
Get the best of both worlds in Stow-on-the-Wold, a peaceful village-like lifestyle and plenty of opportunities for an active life and stimulation in and around the town.
- Join senior-friendly fitness classes held in the town, such as yoga, pilates, and seated exercise.
- Enjoy the local nature on well-maintained walking trails. Find opportunities to take photos, spot birds, or just appreciate the views. Popular routes include The Fosse Way and Heart of England Way.
- Visit surrounding villages such as Bourton-on-the-Water, Chipping Campden, and Moreton-in-Marsh, each of which open up even more opportunities to enjoy new sights and take in local history.
Transport links and connections
While Stow-on-the-Wold feels rural, it’s well-connected by public transport and roads, particularly A-roads.
- By car - The A429 is the main access route, running directly through the town. From the A429, you can reach the M40 and M5.
- By bus - Local bus services connect Stow-on-the-Wold to nearby areas, including Moreton-in-Marsh, Bourton-on-the-Water, and Cheltenham. Due to the countryside setting, services can be limited in evenings and Sundays but taxis and the Cotswold Friends Community Transport Scheme can arrange lifts for seniors.
- By rail - The nearest station is located 10 minutes away in Moreton-in-Marsh. From there, you can jump on direct trains to major cities such as Oxford, Reading, and London Paddington.
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:
The reason why I chose to buy 75 percent of my apartment is because it meant that I could enjoy financial freedom for the future. One process and everything was completed, with no stress, so I could move with ease and enjoy my new home.
Helen, homeowner, Crescent Place
You needn’t worry about privacy. Once you close the door to your apartment, it’s like you’re in your own little world. The great thing about independent living is the balance – the social aspect is there if you want it, but you can also enjoy your own space.
Erika and Stephen, homeowners, Foxglove Place
We decided to eliminate unnecessary stress by downsizing while we could do it - and where better to move to than the same development as mum so that we could keep an eye on her too!
Linda (left) with mum Daphne (right), homeowners, Fussells 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.
McCarthy & Stone community news from Gloucestershire
Retirement living in Stow-on-the-Wold FAQs
Yes, this sociable town is full of friendly people who make efforts to welcome newcomers. There are several active groups in the local area that are always looking for new members to enjoy hobbies and interests among other enthusiasts. Additionally, the town hosts regular markets and events, which are a great way to meet locals and support independent businesses.
The town centre is generally compact, with all of the main amenities, shops, and facilities within walking distance. The paving is relatively flat and suitable for mobility scooter and wheelchair users, with plenty of benches throughout to sit, rest, and watch the everyday activities of the town go by.
The surrounding areas can be quite hilly and could be challenging for those with mobility issues, but the core part of the town is in a central location, so you can get where you need with ease.
As one of most desirable locations to live in Gloucestershire, Stow-on-the-Wold can be more pricey than other surrounding areas, but locals say that the low crime rate, fantastic quality of life, and property value outweighs any extra costs.
What’s more, McCarthy & Stone homeowners can save over £2,300 a year on household bills compared to a typical home, thanks to cheaper heating, water and other utility bills.
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