France has long been a favourite destination for British expats looking for a better lifestyle, more space and a strong sense of community. With over 150,000 Brits officially living in France, it’s clear that the appeal of French life, from affordable healthcare to sunny countryside living, remains strong. But, where do most British expats in France actually live?
Here are ten towns with thriving UK communities, a relaxed pace of life and the kind of charm that continues to attract British families, retirees, and remote workers alike.
Table of contents
Morzine, Haute-Savoie
Located in the heart of the French Alps, Morzine is a vibrant mountain town that attracts British expats seeking an active lifestyle in a spectacular natural setting. With its ski slopes, hiking trails, and lively town centre, Morzine offers both seasonal excitement and year-round liveability. To better understand the lifestyle and regional appeal, explore our complete guide to the Alps region of France.
Why British expats choose Morzine
- Access to high-quality international schools
- Popular with both winter sports enthusiasts and summer hikers
- Convenient links to Geneva Airport for travel to and from the UK
The town also boasts a well-established English-speaking community, making it easier for newcomers to settle in, especially families and remote workers.
➡️ Learn more about relocating to Morzine as a British expat
Le Dorat, Nouvelle Aquitaine
Le Dorat, located in the Haute-Vienne department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, offers British expats a tranquil setting steeped in medieval architecture. The town combines small-village charm with easy access to Limoges, making it ideal for retirees or anyone seeking a quieter pace of life without feeling isolated.
Why British expats are drawn to Le Dorat
- Affordable property prices, especially for period homes
- A welcoming expat community and bilingual local residents
- Historic landmarks and a slow, relaxed rhythm of daily life
With strong community ties and essential services nearby, Le Dorat continues to grow in popularity among Brits who want to enjoy authentic French countryside living.
➡️ Discover more about the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region for expats: Read the regional guide to Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Eymet, Dordogne
Eymet might be one of the best-known expat towns in France. With a bustling weekly market, a large proportion of British homeowners and English widely spoken, Eymet offers an easy transition for those new to life in France.
Why Brits love it
- Active social calendar
- Great for retirees and families
- Well-connected and walkable town centre
Sauzé-Vaussait, Nouvelle Aquitaine
Set in the Deux-Sèvres department, Sauzé-Vaussais offers British expats rural peace and inexpensive property. The town has a slow pace of life and access to open countryside, perfect for gardening, DIY and remote work.
Why Brits love it
- Very low cost of living
- Authentic French rural life
- Active community groups
Callac, Brittany
Callac, set in the heart of Brittany, is a favourite among British expats looking for a blend of rural tranquility and vibrant community life. The town is known for its cultural events, active arts scene, and access to Brittany’s stunning coastlines.
Why British expats choose Callac
- Lush countryside perfect for walking, gardening, and outdoor living
- A strong Anglo-French community with integration support
- Easy access to nearby beaches and coastal day trips
Callac offers a slower pace of life without sacrificing connection or creativity, making it particularly appealing to retirees, artists and remote workers.
➡️ Learn more about the lifestyle and property market in the region: Explore the Brittany regional guide
Civray, Nouvelle Aquitaine
Civray offers the convenience of amenities with the calm of rural living. Its riverside location, good transport links, and regular markets make it attractive to British expats, especially those looking for a quieter lifestyle.
Why Brits love Civray
- Local shops and healthcare
- Walkable town centre
- Historic charm
Huelgoat, Brittany
Huelgoat is nestled in Brittany’s forested heart, with legends, boulders and beauty around every corner. It has a strong British presence, particularly among those seeking nature, walking trails, and solitude without isolation.
Why Brits love it
- Mystical, forested surroundings
- Affordable homes
- Excellent local produce and markets
Chef-Boutonne, Nouvelle Aquitaine
This picturesque village has become a magnet for British expats wanting to escape city life. Its regular markets, mild climate, and affordable properties provide an ideal backdrop for a relaxed lifestyle.
Why Brits love it
- Friendly expat groups
- Classic French architecture
- Accessible location
Confolens, Charente
Confolens is known for its international music festival, stone bridges and medieval charm. British residents are drawn to its cultural life and the low cost of real estate in the Charente region.
Why Brits love it
- Active arts scene
- River views and open air festivals
- Great value properties
L’Isle-Jourdain, Occitanie
L’Isle-Jourdain, nestled along the Vienne River in southwest France, offers British expats a peaceful yet well-connected place to settle. Its blend of scenic nature, friendly locals, and practical amenities makes it a rising favourite for those relocating from the UK.
Why British expats are moving to L'Isle-Jourdain
- Picturesque riverside setting with walking trails and nature access
- A growing community of well-integrated expats
- Weekly markets, cafés and active social groups foster connection
Its location in the Occitanie region offers mild weather and strong healthcare services, two top priorities for many expats, particularly retirees and families.
➡️ Discover what life is like in the wider area: Read our regional guide to living in Occitanie
Why are British expats choosing France?
France appeals to British expats for several key reasons:
- Affordable property in rural and provincial towns
- Access to state healthcare and lower private insurance costs
- A milder climate, especially in the southwest
- High quality of life and better work-life balance
- Proximity to the UK for travel and family visits
From schooling and retirement options to remote working and property renovation, France continues to attract Britons in search of space, culture, and affordability.
Final notes
Whether you’re looking for a ski chalet in the Alps or a stone cottage in the Dordogne, these towns represent the best of British expat life in France. Affordable, welcoming, and full of local character, they offer a softer landing for those making the leap across the Channel.
To dive deeper into these regions, explore our full Guide to the Regions of France.
Thinking about moving to France?
Whether you’re planning to move or you’re already living in France, listen to real life stories on our Just Jump podcast or read our useful blog posts to make your relocation a success! For inspiration on where to travel once you arrive, don’t miss our guide to the 10 most beautiful places to visit in France.
First published: March 2024
Updated: June 2025
