Retire to Devon
From Exeter to Plymouth, the wilds of Dartmoor and the sandy beaches of Woolacombe, Devon is an ideal county for retirees looking to live in some of the most glorious natural beauty England has to offer.
Local retirees enjoy:
- Swimming, surfing and fishing along the stunning coastlines, as well as a number of coastal walkways with breathtaking views.
- Diverse wildlife on your doorstep, from dolphins and whales to wild ponies and even puffins on the famous Lundy Island.
- Culture and community, with maritime festivals, historic cathedrals and castles and links to Agatha Christie.
- Reliable public transport with a frequent bus and railway system makes it easy to travel around the South West.
9 retirement developments in Devon
Foxglove Place | Cullompton
Retirement Living- Properties 7 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Shared Ownership 50% example share/50% rent £130,000/£298 pcm
- Purchase from £245,000
Mewstone Place | Dartmouth
Retirement Living Plus- Properties 45 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Shared Ownership 50% example share/50% rent £132,500/£304 pcm
- Purchase from £275,000
- Rent from £2,840 pcm
The Curlews | Exmouth
Retirement Living Plus- Properties 20 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Shared Ownership 50% example share/50% rent £132,500/£304 pcm
- Purchase from £316,000
- Rent from £2,965 pcm
Orchid Place | Exeter
Retirement Living- Properties 12 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Shared Ownership 50% example share/50% rent £137,500/£316 pcm
- Purchase from £280,000
- Rent from £2,135 pcm
Papermaker House | Ivybridge
Retirement Living- Properties 43 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Purchase Properties at this development have not been released for sale yet. The listed prices are guide prices only. £270,000
Sidmouth | Sidmouth
Retirement Living Plus- Properties 51 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Purchase Properties at this development have not been released for sale yet. The listed prices are guide prices only. £310,000
Pym Court | Topsham
Retirement Living Plus- Properties 1 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Rent from £3,645 pcm
Tumbling Weir Court | Ottery St. Mary
Retirement Living- Properties 1 available
- Bedrooms 1–2 beds available
- Rent from £2,650 pcm
Pinnoc Mews | Exeter
Retirement Living- Properties TBC
- Rental available
Explore places in the Devon area
Life at McCarthy & Stone retirement developments in Devon
Our retirement apartments, bungalows and villages in Devon are thoughtfully designed to make life easier for you.
We’ve two options for independent living, Retirement Living and Retirement Living PLUS, each with differing levels of services and assisted living facilities to support you now and in the future – so you can live retirement your way.
Our Devon retirement homes have on-site access to amenities and services including:
- A friendly community with events and clubs
- Sociable lounges and gardens
- An on-site manager
- Full maintained shared areas
- A guest suite for visitors
Retirement living in Devon
With rolling green countryside and golden beaches, there’s a lot to love about Devon - its mix of charming villages and lively towns make it the perfect base for retirement living.
Things for retirees to do in Devon
Devon’s rich cultural landscape offers a mix of activities whether you crave relaxation or adventure.
- Explore historic homes like Powderham Castle near Exeter, where you can learn more about local history and enjoy scenic views over the River Exe or visit Castle Drogo, the youngest castle in the country.
- History lovers will also enjoy Exeter Cathedral and the historic fishing village of Clovelly or the quaint streets of Totnes.Â
- Visit Torquay’s Bygones Victorian Museum, which offers the chance to explore recreated Victorian streets, or the National Marine Aquarium.Â
- 800-year-old Torre Abbey in Torbay has an art gallery and award-winning gardens.Â
- Foodies will love the local cream teas (cream first in Devon!), fresh seafood in Brixham and farmers’ markets.
Enjoy an active retirement in Devon
With glorious coastline, rugged clifftops, bustling harbours and sandy beaches, Devon is ideal for an active retirement beside the sea.
- Outdoor pursuits - explore the UNESCO World Heritage Jurassic Coast, or relax on the sandy beaches of Woolacombe and Salcombe. The South West Coastal Path stretches for 630 miles, while Exmoor and Dartmoor offer a mix of cycling and walking routes.
- Attractions - Killerton’s National Trust parkland, Lydford Gorge, and a variety of fishing villages like Beer and Appledore provide picture-perfect scenery.
- Wildlife - grab your binoculars and spot various birds, dolphins, puffins, and other wildlife, especially at havens like Seaton Wetlands and Slapton Ley Nature Reserve, the largest natural lake in the South West.
Arts, culture and community in Devon
Whether art or history is your passion, Devon has plenty to offer. Agatha Christie famously wrote ‘And Then There Were None’ on Burgh Island, while Dartmouth Steam Railway combines history with the joys of travel.
- Buzzing cities - Exeter and Plymouth offer a range of shops, restaurants, pubs and leisure activities.
- Theatre - Exeter Northcott Theatre and Barnfield Theatre offer an eclectic mix of live performances throughout the year.
- Festivals - Dart Musical Festival, Sidmouth Folk Festival and Budleigh Salterton Literary Festival are just three of many fairs, heritage days, and festivities held throughout Devon’s communities every year.
- Community centres - such as Alphington Community Centre, Lamerton and Cullompton centres host things like coffee mornings, art and pottery classes, Pilates and social clubs.
Transport and connections
Devon offers a reliable network of transport, from public buses and trains to motorways for those who prefer to drive.
- By car - Devon benefits from several major roads, such as the A30 and M5, which connect the county to major cities like Bristol and Birmingham. Exeter, Barnstaple, and Plymouth are all easily accessible by car.
- By bus - Devon’s towns and villages are connected by bus services such as Dartline and Stagecoach South West, with free concessionary travel passes available for seniors.
- By rail - Devon’s railway connections provide easy access to London and farther afield. Major stations include Exeter St Davids, Newton Abbot, and Tiverton Parkway.
- By air – for short haul holidays and trips to Europe, Exeter International Airport will meet your needs.
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:
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
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 Devon
Retirement living in Devon FAQs
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