Renting in Retirement in Devon

Posted 4th March 2024

Exploring retirement communities in Devon

Devon is a large county in the Southwest of England. It features two coastlines, the Bristol Channel to the north and the English Channel to the South. The south of the county has long been referred to as the ‘English Riveria’ and is one of England’s most popular holiday destinations.

Retiring to a city in Devon

Exeter is an exciting city that blends a historic backdrop for modern living. With plenty to do and see, it’s great to entertain visiting friends and family.

The city will offer retirees a vibrant lifestyle, with lots of events going on throughout the year. It is also home to hospitals and plenty of other healthcare providers.

Plymouth is the only Ocean city in Britain. It’s the city that really has it all, with shopping, healthcare and amenities all close on hand, teamed with a scenic waterfront.

Retiring to a town on the coast in Devon

If you love the coast, you’ll be spoilt for choice with either coastline in Devon. The north coast features great expanse of sandy beaches with tall cliffs. The channel meets the Atlantic which can cause choppy seas that are great for surfing or bodyboarding. The southern coast features coves and estuaries with calmer seas. There is a ‘blue flag’ beach to the south of Dartmouth, called Blackpool Sands. Cleaned every day, there is a beach café that serves organic and fair-trade food. A perfect place to sit and watch the world go by.

Many of the harbours offer boat trips which is a great way to see the coastline from another angle. There’s also trips that combine the Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway so you can enjoy both the countryside and the sea in one day!

Devon is bordered by some picturesque counties too. Cornwall is to the west, Somerset to the northeast and Dorset to the southeast.

For rainy days, you have many options too. There’s the National Marine Aquarium, riding on a tram on the Seaton Tramway or a narrow-gauge train that takes you to the old copper mine at Morwellham Quay on the river Tamar.

Towns by the sea in Devon

Exmouth is a pretty seaside town located on the east bank on the river Exe to the south of the county. Annual events include a flower trail and a mussel festival. There is historical sites and plenty of nature to enjoy and is well known for it’s water sports.

On the other side of the river, sits Dawlish with a long stretch of golden sands. There is a Victorian railway line with runs adjacent to the shore and a town centre that is charming.

Torquay was historically a fishing and agricultural town. It became a tourist destination following Torre Railway Station in 1848. Retiring to Torquay allows you to experience the holiday vibe all year round.

Paignton offers a wonderful day out for young visitors. With it’s own Zoo and pier that’s full of fun including tenpin bowling, fairground rides and crazy golf.

Seaton offers a laid back vibe in the heart of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Offering shopping and outdoor activities, it also has lovely walks along the South West Coast Path and Wetlands Nature Reserve.

Sidmouth beach is beautiful to enjoy rock pooling and a large area within the town has been designated a conservation area. The town itself offers everything you could need for shops, eateries and art galleries.

Teignmouth is on the main South West train line, making an easy commute to and from London for days out, or for visitors. The perfect balance of countryside and coast, which is complimented by historic Georgian buildings.

Retiring to a town in Devon

Barnstaple is one of the oldest boroughs in Devon. It has many historic markets and lots of heritage sights to see. The shopping in the town is excellent and has many high street brands amongst some independent shops.

Honiton is surrounded by countryside in the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. A great place to visit is the Thelma Hulbert Gallery which features local art alongside national exhibitions.

Topsham is positioned right at the very top of the River Exe. Historically, it was a thriving port and ships were built there. Today, it offers a vibrant experience, with many specialist shops, pubs and restaurants.

Newton Abbot nestles within the rolling countryside synonymous with south Devon. It is a busy market town where they are held outside every Wednesday and Saturday. It’s a stone’s throw from Dartmoor National Park which is a beautiful spot to enjoy stretching your legs.

Axminster is a market town on the river Axe. It has a burgeoning artistic community and there is an Art Trail that takes in some of the local artists sculptures.

Totnes offers a whole host of activities for active retirees. There’s water sports on the river Dart, classes and workshops and a whole host of history and heritage to explore.

Kinsgbridge is a really popular location for walking and sailing. There are beautiful countryside views to enjoy and a cinema or leisure centre to enjoy when the weather is inclement. A vineyard can be explored, or you can enjoy the antique shops and art galleries. There are also high street brands and independently run shops for everyday needs.

Retiring to a village in Devon

Uffculme is located in the middle of Devon in the Blackdown Hills. It’s a great location for walkers, cyclists and photographers, as fallow and red deers roam free at nearby Bridwell Park. There is a monthly market which features artisans, growers and makers.

Retiring to Devon

Retiring to Devon offers a welcome balance of nature, heritage, and contemporary pastimes. It’s a popular retirement destination, so finding your place in a community and enjoying local events in your area can be straightforward.

The food and drink in this area is renowned. With lots of farmer’s markets and local restaurants, you have access to fine and fresh ingredients.

Devon has an attractive geography which is varied. An ideal county for photographers and artists, there are cliffs depicting the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous geology, rivers, and areas of outstanding natural beauty.

Devon enjoys low crime rates which helps you to feel safe and secure. There’s also loads of volunteering opportunities throughout the county.

Retirement in Devon will offer a whole host of possibilities. With properties in many locations throughout the region, My Future Living will have the ideal rental retirement apartment for you.