The best places in the UK to retire named

A new study from the experts at Which? has named the best places in the UK to retire (Image: Getty) Feeling ready to retire ? A new study from the experts at Which? has named the best places in the UK to spend golden years. The team found that around a third of people approaching retirement had already moved or were considering moving as part of their plans. Important factors for retirees looking to move included healthcare access, green space, proximity to local leisure activities and low crime levels. The team then chose a top destination for retirees based on these factors, selecting one place in each of England’s nine regions, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. Where are the best places to retire? The Outer Hebrides topped the list in Scotland (Image: Getty) Best places to retire Broxbourne, East of England Elmbridge, South East Exeter, South West High Peak, East Midlands Kirklees, Yorkshire and the Humber Merton, London Mid and East Antrim, Northern Ireland Newcastle-under-Lyme, West Midlands Outer Hebrides, Scotland South Tyneside, North East England Stockport, North West Wrexham, Wales Newcastle-under-Lyme was one of England’s highest scoring local authorities for green space while it was joint happiest with High Peak. Merton in London scored highly for healthcare and an abundance of green spaces. Wrexham topped Wales for its green spaces, including areas of natural beauty. Jenny Ross, Which? Money editor, said: ‘Whether you’ve always dreamed of escaping to the countryside or the seaside, the decision of where to retire can be just as important as the decision of when to retire and our latest research has uncovered gems across the UK that would be great places for retirees to consider. ‘The sooner you can start financially preparing for retirement, the better. Check your state pension forecast and track down any lost pension pots to get a clearer picture of whether you’re on track. That way you’ll be prepared to make the move if you decide it’s for you.’ Prefer the idea of retiring abroad? Why not check out the best country in Europe for Britons looking to retire ? Remember Britons will need to check the visa requirements to retire abroad as the rules have changed since Brexit .