The best areas for retiring and downsizing

Post-pandemic, many homeowners are reconsidering their requirements when it comes to where they call home – and for those on the cusp of retirement, or thinking about downsizing, it can become a minefield. Many dream of a retirement by the sea or in the countryside, but what if that takes you far from your family, or makes transport tricky?

Properties in later life should offer the perfect blend of practicality, convenience and comfort, as well as being somewhere that you feel happy and relaxed.

With that in mind, we’ve highlighted some of the top areas across Edinburgh, the Lothians, Fife and the Borders that could be the ideal location for your new home.

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North Berwick

One of the most popular places in East Lothian, and often called the best place to live in Scotland, North Berwick is a wonderful choice. There’s everything you could want, with beautiful beaches, golf courses and coastal walks, plus a flourishing high street packed with shops, cafes and restaurants. Transport is great too, with excellent road, rail and bus links into Edinburgh.

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Linlithgow

Well-placed for those with family spread across the Central Belt, the West Lothian town of Linlithgow is a stellar choice. Perfectly positioned between Edinburgh and Falkirk, with easy access to Glasgow, Linlithgow is most famous for Linlithgow Palace, but there’s also a picturesque loch and walking routes, plus a high street filled with great places to socialise, eat, drink and shop.

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Roslin

Home to the world-famous Rosslyn Chapel, Roslin is a tranquil Midlothian village with a semi-rural feel. It’s just seven miles south of Edinburgh, with excellent transport links, but it feels worlds away, with its leafy, relaxed vibe and charming shops and restaurants. The Roslin Glen country park is great for enjoying a woodland walk, while Straiton Retail Park is just a short distance away.

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Portobello and Joppa

If your downsizing dreams revolve around being by the sea, Portobello and Joppa are an ideal choice. These delightful seaside towns enjoy fast, regular bus links to Edinburgh, plus trains from nearby Brunstane. Residents here can enjoy the beautiful golden sands of Portobello beach and the elegant Victorian promenade, but also a wealth of local shops, bars, cafes and restaurants and a buzzing local community.

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Morningside

Not ready to give up on city living? The sought-after neighbourhood of Morningside is a great option, offering a village feel with the buzz of Edinburgh’s city centre just moments away. Morningside’s appeal lies in its plentiful independent bars, cafes, shops and restaurants, as well as its proximity to green spaces, including several golf courses. For film buffs, the independent Dominion cinema is also located here – the perfect place to spend an afternoon!

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Kelso

Fancy a more rural way of life? Kelso, a quaint market town in the heart of the Scottish Borders, is a popular choice – and with good reason. This charming town has a real community feel and would make an excellent place to relocate to if you’re looking for a quieter lifestyle, but still with plenty to see and do. There’s an array of outdoor pursuit options available, plus there are local shops, inns and restaurants to enjoy. Kelso is located within easy distance of Edinburgh, Newcastle and Carlisle, so there’s always plenty to do with your downtime.

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Anstruther

Located in the idyllic East Neuk of Fife, Anstruther is a gorgeous place to retire to. This scenic spot is the largest in a string of captivating fishing villages in the area, and is popular with holidaymakers as well as house-hunters. Anstruther is a great choice for those looking for a more relaxed pace of life, with local amenities on your doorstep (including the famous fish and chips!) and St Andrews just a bus ride away.

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