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Places we have been now retired in the UK any suggestions for somewhere else.

106 replies

ilovemykindle · 15/08/2026 15:58

We have always gone to the canaries in November sometimes in April as well.
Now we're retired we like to see places in the UK for a few days between may and September.
When there we like to park up and use local transport trains or buses for excursions so both can see the scenery or not be couped up in a car.
It's just the two of us and are young pensioners who are fit enough for a good walk.
Like a nice restaurant and pubs.

Places we've been over the last 4 years include.
York - love been twice.
Bristol - Dump.
Bath - lovely
Edinburgh - interesting but hilly and cold. (June)
Scarborough - hilly
Llandudno - nice
Carmarthen - interesting
Beaumaris - boring
Newquay - great
St Ives - love
Shrewsbury - friendly
Torquay - ok but run down.

Thinking of Brighton, Plymouth, Falmouth, Penzance, Bournemouth, Cotswolds (where)
Any other suggestions will be much appreciated. Or advice on these places.
Can fit one more long weekend away this year.

OP posts:
CornishTiger · 17/08/2026 08:40

If you are limiting yourself to public transport whilst there then you are only going to see more popular or mainstream areas?
I understand some of the relaxing aspect though but maybe a mix would be better?

Forest of Dean.
Beacon beacons
Hay on Wye and area.

HairyToity · 20/08/2026 14:16

Conwy

HairyToity · 20/08/2026 14:17

NeedToKnow101 · 16/08/2026 21:34

Can you speak up a bit?

No, I'm direct and quiet.

MissyB1 · 20/08/2026 19:06

Shufflebumnessie · 16/08/2026 16:50

I was going to suggest Plymouth (& then saw it's already on your list).
We were there for 4 nights in early August (& did the same in Aug 2023). We had a fab time.
The Hoe & Barbican are lovely. We had an evening walk there at sunset each evening.
Easy access to the bus & train station, to lots of destinations (including Looe).
Look at Plymouth Marine Safari for the chance to see dolphins (day or sunset cruise).
The Box - a free museum.
National Marine Aquarium.
Lots of nice restaurants & bars, especially on the seafront.
National Fireworks Competition every August.
Royal William Yard for restaurants and shops.

I'd highly recommend the Crowne Plaza Plymouth. Nice hotel with a lovely pool, a few minutes walk from the Hoe/Barbican & town centre (which has recently been revamped). They have a Marco Pierre White restaurant on the top floor with amazing views over Plymouth Sound. It was the best meal out we've had in years, and very reasonable for the quality.
If you have any questions, feel free to ask or message.

Edited

I’ve stayed at that crown plaza, I agree it’s very nice! But if you want to eat the restaurant you have to book far in advance.

Shufflebumnessie · 20/08/2026 19:12

MissyB1 · 20/08/2026 19:06

I’ve stayed at that crown plaza, I agree it’s very nice! But if you want to eat the restaurant you have to book far in advance.

It's lovely there.
We didn't book the restaurant as it was a spur of the moment decision, but it was a Monday evening so probably much quieter than a weekend. Best meal out we've had in years!

Dilemma999 · 20/08/2026 20:27

Don’t think you’ll like Brighton if you don’t like Bristol.

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