Scotland’s ‘top town to retire’ on lovely coastline where homes are cheap

After decades of grafting hard, retirement should be a time of rest and relaxation.

For many people, this means moving somewhere quiet and idyllic. Relocating to a tranquil little town or village that offers both peace and also a vibrant social scene is what many retirees are after.

However, at the same time, you don’t want to empty your savings moving somewhere super expensive either. Most people would rather spend their hard-earned cash on themselves and their loved ones.

As reported by the Scottish Daily Express, a new study has revealed the best place to retire in the UK. Conducted by Fabulous Vegas, the research found that Dumfries and Galloway is the top spot for retirees.

The region, situated in the southwest of Scotland, is famed for its stunning coastline and charming villages. It also boasts the highest proportion of over-65s in the country, as well as being affordable according to the experts.

Fabulous Vegas found that the average price of a home in Dumfries and Galloway is £185,938, making it the 10th cheapest out of Scotland’s 32 local authorities. For those considering a move to the region, the town of Kirkcudbright stands out as a popular choice.

Situated at the mouth of the River Dee, the scenic spot is renowned for its lively community and charming independent shops. Kirkcudbright is also home to the area’s only working harbour, and has historically been a hub for artists going all the way back to the 19th century — earning it the nickname ‘The Artists’ Town’.

Kirkcudbright’s Castle Street, which leads to the ruins of the 16th-century MacLellan’s Castle, is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its multicoloured houses. The town’s vibrant mix of medieval, Georgian, and Victorian architecture easily sets it apart from nearby destinations.

Meanwhile, Kirkcudbright is always bustling with farmers’ markets, exhibitions, and community events. Its sheltered location, nestled on the Dee estuary a few miles inland from the Solway coast, also offers protection from the harsh Scottish weather.

For those wanting to check out Kirkcudbright for themselves, it is found around 25 miles west of Dumfries. It is also approximately just two hours from Glasgow by car.

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