Steve Hudson

From London to the Coast: How Steve Hudson Found Freedom in Retirement

Steve has spent a lifetime travelling the world for work. Now, in Littlehampton, he’s found the perfect base for living life on his own terms.

Steve has always been on the move. Now in his late sixties, he has worked for more than 50 years in the specialist carpet industry, restoring and fitting high-end pieces for luxury homes around the world. But five years ago, after decades in London, Steve decided it was time for a different kind of life. “I’d worked all my life and as I was getting older, I had a bright idea – I didn’t want to stay in London. I wanted to be by the sea.”

A fresh start on the coast

During lockdown, Steve was living in Kennington. The pause gave him time to think. He began exploring the south coast, considering Bexhill, Bognor and other seaside towns. Not especially confident with computers, the search took patience. Eventually, he came across My Future Living, the UK’s leading retirement rentals provider, offering age-exclusive homes on long-term contracts in safe and welcoming communities.

One property stood out, a one-bedroom apartment at Rose Court in Littlehampton, a development of 29 retirement living apartments arranged over three floors. “It just felt right,” Steve says. “I’m fit and able, so the second-floor apartment suits me perfectly.”

There were a few hurdles during referencing, largely due to his freelance and international work history, but once resolved, he secured the apartment. Five years later, Rose Court is still his home and he has no intention of moving.

Freedom without the burden

Steve owned a property earlier in life but had no desire to return to home ownership. “I didn’t want a mortgage or the responsibility of maintaining a home at this stage. Renting just made sense. I can give notice if I ever want to move. It gives me flexibility.”

Financial clarity has been key. “My state pension essentially covers my rent. I also have a private pension, and I still do some work. However, I live simply with no car, no flashy lifestyle, and I know exactly what’s going out each month.”

With no unexpected maintenance bills and the security of an assured tenancy, he feels in control. “There are no nasty surprises. Plus I can stay as long as I want.”

That predictability gives him the confidence to focus on what matters most: travel, work and the outdoors. “I don’t plan too far ahead; I live about three months at a time. I like the freedom to travel for work or go on holiday, and living here gives me a base to return to.”

Life that feels like a holiday

In summer, Steve says, life in Littlehampton feels like a permanent holiday. “You’ve got the beaches, the Downs behind us, sailing, Brighton nearby. It’s fantastic.”

He has also found a meaningful way to contribute locally, volunteering as shore crew for the RNLI lifeboat station just minutes from his apartment.

“I’ve worked all my life and wanted to do something worthwhile. It’s a real team effort with about 50 of us helping save lives. I help maintain the boat and get it in and out of the water. It’s a great social thing too. You’re part of something important.”

The role provides camaraderie, purpose and a strong connection to the local community.

Community – on his own terms

While Steve enjoys sailing and volunteering, independence remains important. “I’ve got friends, I walk, I sail. I say hello to people here, but there’s no pressure to socialise. That balance is important.”

Living in a retirement community has also shifted his perceptions. “When you’re younger, you might think there’s a stigma. But this isn’t like that. It’s secure, well kept, and you’ve got your own space and control.”

It took around six months to fully adjust after London. But now, he feels he has greater control over his life than ever before.

“In London, rent and bills can keep going up and up. Here, I can live within my means. I know exactly what’s going out every month.”

Looking ahead

Steve has no intention of slowing down. “I’ve still got more miles to clock up and things to do.” For him, Rose Court provides exactly what he needs: affordability, flexibility and a calm coastal base for an active life.

“It’s ideal for me. I can just lock up and leave whenever I’m travelling. It gives me the freedom to live life my way.”

If you are considering relocating to the coast, search our latest properties today.