York named as one of the best places to retire in England

World Atlas has put together a list of the seven best cities to retire to in England, with York being recognised on the list.

When retiring, many people choose to move out of busy cities to quieter areas with thatched pubs, lots of countryside, and allotment gardens.

However, it is still nice to be in a place with lots of activities and things going on to fill your time with, and York is a great choice for this.

Why is York a great place to retire to?

On the city, World Atlas said: “York’s retirement appeal starts with how much of the city can be reached on foot.

“The downtown core sits inside just over two miles of medieval city walls, and a full lap of the ramparts is a habit for locals.

“The National Railway Museum, which bills itself as the largest of its kind in the world, is a short walk from the train station and drew more than 650,000 visitors in 2025.

“It holds Mallard, the steam locomotive that set the world speed record for steam traction in 1938, and entry is free.

“The Shambles is a narrow medieval street of overhanging timber-framed buildings, and it anchors an afternoon of browsing that stays comfortably walkable.

“York Racecourse runs a full flat-racing calendar between May and October, and York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in northern Europe, hosts evensong most days of the week.”

York has so many restaurants to test out in your free time with spots covering a range of cuisines.

Whether you fancy some Italian pizza from Cresci or want to enjoy some good while looking over the river at Star Inn the City, York has plenty of food spots.

If you want to do some shopping, you can go to the Shambles Market for fresh fruit, cakes, and gifts.

After walking around the market, you can stop at one of the many food stalls such as Smokehouse Burritos, Thai Season, and Crumbles Desserts.

Through the summer, you can enjoy walks along the river and spend a day relaxing in the museum gardens.

Even in the winter, the city feels cosy with Christmas lights dotted around York and huge decorated trees.

Do you agree that York is a great place to retire to? Let us know in the comments.