Best places to retire in the UK as ranked by top polls this year

While many Brits approach retirement happily located in their 'forever home', other people may find they'd like to move to pastures new - whether that's to take the opportunity to downsize, move closer to family, or try a new pace of life. The UK offers plentiful options for people looking to relocate, with the possibility of a change in scenery, the chance to free up some equity if downsizing, and the ability to embrace a new lease of life all exciting prospects for the soon-to-be-retiree.

"Identity is a big issue in retirement, and when you move house you can reinvent yourself," writes Celia Dodd, author of Not Fade Away: How to Thrive in Retirement. "People don't know you as the person who used to go off to work on their bike every day, they don't have preconceptions of you. Your new surroundings will encourage you to think differently about things."

So where can the over 60s look to move to to 'shake things up'? Check out our collated list, below.

AMERSHAM AND CHESHAM

Legal and General this year crowned leafy Amersham and Chesham as the top spot to retire, based on data relating to six 'pillars' of happy living, including housing, health, social life and community, financial status, nature and amenities.

The Buckinghamshire locale scored highest out of all areas considered by the financial services group, ranking a whopping 93 out of 100 for health, reflecting a strong proportion of over 65s in good physical and mental health, as well as good access to GPs. All other 'pillars' rated over 60, making this consituency a well-rounded environment for later life.

Nestled in the scenic Chiltern Hills, the towns provide a blend of countryside charm and urban convenience.

Taking 2nd and 3rd place in the rankings were the market town of Beaconsfield and Surrey Hills towns Dorking and Horley, respectively.

LLANDUDNO

The perfect spot for a tranquil retirement by the sea, the Welsh seaside town of Llandudno topped a study conducted by personal alarm supplier Taking Care this year.

The research took into account a variety of factors, from life expectancy and property prices to the average cost of care homes if needed. Alongside these key statistics, the study also considered the amount of green spaces, bingo halls, English Heritage properties and other leisure facilities.

The Victorian resort boasts a charming promenade overlooking a stunning peninsula between the Great and Little Orme headlands.

Other places to make the grade were Glossop, Tynemouth and Ilfracombe.

EXETER

The Telegraph - along with real estate agents Savills - this year complied a list of the top 10 places to retire to, considering several key factors including 'the number of hospitals, GPs and dentists per 10,000 people and the availability of shops and green spaces nearby'.

Topping their list was south coast beauty Exeter.

'Small and accessible', yet replete with natural beauty, the ancient city boasts history on its doorstep, boutique shops and independent cafes, and a vibrant social scene. Consistently rated as one of the best places to live, work, and study in the UK, there is plenty on offer for retirees looking to embrace a new walk of life.

Second place in the poll was Merton, South West London, with nearby Richmond-upon-thames taking bronze.

WIMBORNE

Research by retirement community developer McCarthy Stone shows rising demand for developments in lesser-known towns, with Wimborne, Dorset topping their list.

Chrissy Fice, Marketing Director at McCarthy Stone, said: "With access to local amenities being named as the top 'must-have' by three quarters of over 65s, other things people are looking for include good transport links, handy supermarkets, a central location within a 15-minute walk, and either a coast or country backdrop."

Market town Wimborne ticks those boxes - and more - with riverside tranquility, culture, independent shops and eateries and a vibrant retired community.

Other hidden gems that made McCarthy Stone's list are green Sutton Coldfield, historic Stratford-upon-Avon and medieval Waltham Abbey.

There are many things to consider when moving for retirement, including access to healthcare, opportunities to build social connections, access to nature, local amenities and financial security.

Retirement village company Rangeford Villages advises the following for those looking to relocate:

• Research and visit prospective areas - chat to locals already living there to get a well-balanced picture of a place
• Review your budget - if necessary, consult a financial advisor to ensure fiscal planning is thorough
• Assess your desired lifestyle - does the area you're looking at provide the opportunities you need?
• Location evaluation - consider proximity to family and friends, healthcare, shopping and nature.