After years of grinding away at work, often in cramped and bustling towns and cities, when it comes to retirement, it's no wonder many pensioners head for a more peaceful and quieter life. However, a new study has now identified the ideal location to soak up some sea air and unwind after several decades at work, with a Welsh seaside town being crowned the best place for a relaxing retirement.

Topping this year's list, created by Taking Care, is the charming Victorian seaside destination of Llandudno. The graceful town perched on the coast of North Wales came out first, beating the likes of Glossop, Tynemouth and Ilfracombe. The study looked at everything from life expectancy to house prices to average care home cost, should it ever be needed. Outside of the core stats, the study also included the amount of green spaces, bingo halls, English Heritage properties and other things that are great to keep you entertained.

With a population of just 19,700 as of the 2021 census, the town is big enough that there is plenty to socialise with, but when you want some peace and quiet, there are still plenty of spots to take a breath.

The seafront is the centre of the town, with a two-mile stretch of Victorian terraces intertwined with grand hotels.

There are several beautiful shops, restaurants, churches, and museums to explore, and the pier has a handful of slot machines and a pub overlooking the beach - something that locals are proud to say feels like it transports you back in time.

Ray, 80, who retired to Llandudno almost three decades ago, toldThe Telegraph: "Living here is like going back 50 years. The older ladies still dress nicely. You can go out for walks after dark. There are no rough gangs going around swearing and fighting."

Nearby Conwy can also provide a great day out to meander around some more shops and boutiques with a much larger selection on offer.

Helen Parkes, who moved to the town with her family, added: "It's [Llandudno] lacking in terms of retail and culture - Conwy next door has had more spent on it and has more independent shops - but living here, you do realise life's not all about spending."

Although quaint North Wales may be the best environment for later life, Scotland seems to have come out as one of the worst options, particularly its capital.

Out of all the places ranked, Edinburgh came out in last place with an average life expectancy of 79 and an overall lifestyle score of 3.8/10, which proved that city-living can take a toll.

The city also proved itself to be expensive, with annual care costs in the city averaging out at almost £40,000, with just one care home for every 778 elderly persons.