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Wells named among UK's best places to retire

Local News by Laura Linham 12th May 2026  
Wells has been named one of the UK’s best places to retire, with praise for its cathedral, market square, green spaces and community feel.
Wells has been named one of the UK’s best places to retire, with praise for its cathedral, market square, green spaces and community feel.
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Wells has been given another national boost after being named among the UK's best places to retire.

The city was picked by World Atlas for a list of eight retirement locations across the UK.

For Wells residents, the reasons will sound familiar: the cathedral, the market square, the cobbled streets, the green spaces and the easy access to countryside.

World Atlas said living in Wells "feels like stepping into history", while still offering modern places to eat and shop.

The guide also pointed to The Little Theatre, Wells Golf Club and local walking spots close to the cathedral.

Wells Recreation Ground was highlighted as another place for a quiet walk or time outdoors, with views towards the Mendip landscape.

According to World Atlas, 30% of Wells residents are aged 65 or over.

The site also said house prices in the city had averaged £362,603 over the last year.

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It is not the first time Wells has been singled out nationally this year.

The city was also named one of the UK's most welcoming towns and cities in Booking.com's Traveller Review Awards.

Those awards are based on verified reviews from travellers.

Booking.com said Wells stood out for its hospitality, atmosphere and visitor attractions.

Ryan Pearson, regional manager for UK and Ireland at Booking.com, said visitors regularly praised the warmth of their welcome in the city.

He said reviews mentioned "friendly and attentive hosts", "exceptionally welcoming staff" and a sense of care that helped visitors feel at home.

He added that Wells' cathedral, historic streets and access to the Somerset countryside were big draws, but said the city's welcoming atmosphere was also inspiring repeat visits.

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