Retire in England
Last updated on Jan 25, 2023
Summary: What is it like to retire in UK? Retirees share their experiences living in UK.
How do I meet people in England?
When we asked people living in England about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"As a mother, you can find mum groups in the Oxfordshire county area. You can also attend functions in the town centre to meet people. There is a community centre where you can utilize the gym and take fitness classes," explained one retiree living in Wantage.
"I joined a gym to attend classes. I find this is a good way to meet people of my own age. I tend to go when people are at work and go to classes which are targeted at people my age. I also have gotten involved in church activities," said another retiree in living in Cambridge, UK.
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What is life like in England?
When we asked people living in England what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Wantage is a quiet little village town so most of life is focused on work and family," said a retiree who moved to Wantage, UK.
"Cambridge is a university city and has a different feel than probably others parts of the UK. Cycling is a big thing here. Not just weekend riding but cycling to work. It is also popular with tourists so they play a big part of economy for this area. We don't socialize that much at pubs but have made a few friends whose houses we go to for meals," said another retiree in Cambridge.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
What do I need to know before retiring in England?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to England, they said:
"Not to expect people to be overly friendly. I moved from the south in the USA so had a bit of culture shock in this aspect. I would recommend living in Oxford itself if you can afford it. You will have a much better experience and more diversity," commented one retiree living in Wantage, UK.
"I would tell them to either buy a bike or rely on public transportation. Parking and car ownership in and around the city can be expensive and frustrating. I would also say expect to spend more on housing here as it is a city in demand," explained one retiree living in Cambridge.
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What type of recreational activities are there in England?
"There are lots of parks that have tennis courts, fields, table tennis and facilities for the whole family. There are a couple of swimming pool/ leisure centers throughout the city," explained one retiree living in Sheffield.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in England?
"Supermarkets in Sheffield offer excellent service and standards with big names such as: Morrisons, Sainsbury's, Asda, Tescos etc," explained one retiree living in Sheffield.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in England?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in England?
- What do I need to know before retiring in England?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in England accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in England like?
- Is the cost of living in England high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in England?
- What are healthcare services like in England?
- Is the cost of living in England high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in England?
- What is the weather like in England?
- Are there good restaurants in England?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in England?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in England?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in England?
- What do I need to know when buying property in England?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in England?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?