**Wales’ Top Destinations for Retirement Unveiled in New Study**
A recent analysis has highlighted the leading areas across the UK for enjoying a rewarding retirement, with one Welsh county earning the highest praise in Wales for its quality of later life. The study, published by financial specialists Legal & General, focused on what makes a place especially attractive for retirees. By assessing 632 parliamentary constituencies on aspects such as housing, health, community spirit, financial stability, natural surroundings and the availability of local amenities, the research sought to reveal where people can experience the most fulfilling retirement years.
To build its index, Legal & General drew on publicly available data from the Office for National Statistics, census information, housing surveys, and results from a poll engaging nearly 3,000 UK retirees, undertaken by Opinium. The findings are intended to offer clarity to anyone considering relocating after finishing their working life.
Lorna Shah, managing director at Legal & General’s retail retirement division, underlined that retiring happily is multifaceted: “Enjoying later life goes far beyond just financial means or access to a nice environment. A vibrant community, excellent facilities, and good health provision are equally pivotal. Financial security, however, enables retirees to make choices that fit their aspirations.”
Monmouthshire emerged as the number one spot in Wales for those seeking a happy and enriching retirement. Nestled between the boundaries of the Brecon Beacons National Park—recently renamed Bannau Brycheiniog—and the tranquil Wye Valley, Monmouthshire is renowned for its rich history and rolling countryside. Among its many attractions are medieval castles such as Raglan and historic sites including Tintern Abbey. The county performed exceptionally well in the study, achieving a retirement happiness score of 53, with particularly strong results in local amenities (72), financial wellbeing (69), and social connectivity (67).
Monmouthshire’s culinary reputation also played a role in its high rating, reflecting its title as the “food capital of Wales”. Annual highlights include the Abergavenny Food Festival, drawing food lovers, chefs and growers from across the UK, while lauded restaurants such as The Whitebrook and The Walnut Tree contribute to the county’s lively local food scene.
Other Welsh constituencies that ranked favourably for retirement included Dwyfor Meirionnydd, Vale of Glamorgan, Ynys Môn, and Mid and South Pembrokeshire. The index also recognised Bangor Aberconwy, Gower, Bridgend, and several Cardiff regions among the top choices for retirees.
Looking beyond Wales, the study identified Chesham and Amersham in Buckinghamshire as the most desirable retirement locations in England. Unlike the traditional trend of coastal towns topping the list, this commuter belt area, set within the Chiltern Hills, scored an impressive 74 out of 100. The combination of leafy green spaces, easy access to London, and a cluster of independent businesses appeals strongly to those desiring a balance of countryside calm and urban convenience.
Chesham and Amersham’s strengths lay not just in environment and amenities, but also in health provisions: the area registered a particularly high health score, attributed to a significant proportion of healthy older people and accessible GP services. The area’s thriving town centres, picturesque parks and links to popular culture elevated its appeal further.
For Scotland, the index revealed Mid Dunbartonshire as the ideal destination for retirees, scoring 55 overall. The region encompasses peaceful towns such as Bearsden, Milngavie and Lennoxtown, offering semi-rural tranquillity at the edge of Glasgow’s urban amenities. Financial security was especially strong here, complemented by a highly-engaged sense of community.
Whilst the rankings will inevitably reflect individual preferences regarding cost, access, and lifestyle, the report offers an insightful guide for older adults contemplating their next chapter. The diverse locations recognised in the Legal & General index demonstrate that the ingredients for a rewarding retirement can be found in historic counties, bustling commuter towns, and scenic rural landscapes alike. As the population of retirees grows, the importance of access to robust health care, strong communities, and enriching environments will only become more vital to those searching for the perfect place to call home in their later years.