Retirement properties in North Yorkshire

From stately homes and sandy coastlines to some of the biggest expanses of unspoilt countryside in England, North Yorkshire is a top spot for a rural and active retirement.

• Visit historic sites like the Baroque Castle Howard, which took over 100 years to build, or the Gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey that inspired literary giants like Bram Stoker, Lewis Caroll, and Charles Dickens.
• Plan a day at the beach in Scarborough, which boasts a long promenade, historic castle, and a SEA LIFE Sanctuary complete with seals, penguins and sharks.
• Explore miles of caves, reservoirs and woodland at the Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, or hike across the unspoilt hillsides of the North York Moors.  

From adventurous water sports to leisurely hikes, you'll find plenty of ways to stay fit and healthy around the county.

• Sports - Swim, surf and sail around the beaches and bays near Scarborough, or explore endless miles of trails and paths around Nidderdale, or work on your swing at nearly 50 golf courses across the area.
• Nature - The heather-covered hills and ancient woodlands of the North York Moors offer peaceful pathways and ambitious trails, with several senior-friendly walks available, guided or solo.
• Wildlife - See owls, hawks and eagles at the York Bird of Prey Centre, and terns, lapwings and peregrines in the wetlands of the RSPB Saltholme Nature Reserve.

Whether you're looking for classic opera or modern art, there's lots to keep you busy when you buy one of our retirement properties in North Yorkshire.

• Theatre - See live performances at the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough, live music at the Edwardian Royal Hall in Harrogate, or drama and musicals at the York Theatre Royal.
• Festivals and events - Listen to music at Ryedale Festival or Swaledale Festival or celebrate the weird and wonderful at Whitby Goth Weekend.
• Shopping - Enjoy a huge range of boutiques and street entertainers on the busy shopping street of Stonegate in York, or a variety of local producers and speciality shops at the street markets spread around the county.

While the rural areas of North Yorkshire can be difficult to reach without driving, the majority of the area is well-connected via public transport and the A1.

• By car - The A1 runs through the centre of the area, connecting to Leeds, Durham, and London.
• By bus - Buses regularly run throughout the region, offering scenic transport between settlements like York, Harrogate, Ripon, and further afield.
• By rail -  Rail stations are located in York, Scarborough, Malton, Harrogate, and Thirsk, connecting to Newcastle, Manchester, London, Leeds, and Edinburgh.