Britain's 'best places to retire'

Countryside and convenience factors in popularity

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Nestled in leafy Buckinghamshire, Chesham and Amersham have taken the top spot in an index of Britain's best places to retire.

The area - popular for its transport links to London, its charming and historic streets, and for being gateway for walkers and cyclists to the picturesque Chilterns - was ranked the highest in an index compiled by L&G.

L&G said the area performed “exceptionally well” on its health measure, reflecting a strong proportion of over-65s in good physical and mental health.

It also scored highly on financial security and in other areas, such as access to nature and community, making it a well-rounded environment for later life, according to the index.

The study scored areas across a range of factors that make up a happier later life, including access to healthcare, opportunities to build social connections, access to nature, local amenities and financial security.

Mid Dunbartonshire and Monmouthshire took the top spots as the best places to retire in Scotland and Wales respectively.