Moving to Brittany from the UK

A Guide Moving to Brittany from the UK in 2026

Thinking of moving to Brittany from the UK? You’re not alone. Brittany (Bretagne) is one of the most popular destinations for British families, retirees and remote workers seeking a better quality of life, lower property prices, a mild climate and a relaxed pace of living. With excellent transport links to the UK, spectacular coastlines, charming medieval towns, and a strong sense of regional identity, Brittany offers a lifestyle many British movers now prioritise.

This guide provides everything you need to know — from removals and customs requirements to property, healthcare, schools, cost of living and the best areas to live in Brittany. Written with real experience from European move managers who assist UK–France removals every week, this is the most comprehensive and practical resource available online.

Table of Contents

• 1. Why Move to Brittany?
• 2. Removals to Brittany from the UK (How It Works)
• 3. Customs Rules for Moving to Brittany Post-Brexit
• 4. The Best Places to Live in Brittany
• 5. Property in Brittany: Buying, Renting & Prices
• 6. Cost of Living in Brittany vs the UK
• 7. Schools & Education in Brittany
• 8. Healthcare & Social Security
• 9. Jobs, Work & the Local Economy
• 10. Lifestyle, Culture & What It’s Really Like to Live in Brittany
• 11. Moving Tips from Central Moves
• 12. FAQ: Moving to Brittany from the UK
• 13. Plan Your Move to Brittany

1. Why Move to Brittany?

Brittany has long been one of France’s most desirable relocation regions — especially among UK movers looking for great value property, natural beauty and a slower pace of life. With easy access from Portsmouth, Plymouth and Poole, Brittany offers excellent convenience for second-home owners and permanent relocations alike.

Key Reasons UK Movers Choose Brittany:

• Property prices significantly lower than the UK and many parts of France
• Unspoilt coastlines with over 1,700 miles of beaches, coves and harbours
• A mild, Atlantic climate (warm summers, gentler winters)
• A relaxed, family-friendly pace of life
• Excellent ferry and road connections to the UK
• Charming medieval towns, markets and Breton culture
• Ideal for retirees, remote workers and families
• Lower cost of living compared to Paris, Lyon or the Côte d’Azur

Brittany strikes a rare balance: peaceful, affordable and rural in many places — but never isolated. With its strong infrastructure, good healthcare and attractive house prices, it’s one of the most practical regions for UK expats planning a long-term move.

2. Removals to Brittany from the UK (How It Works)

Central Moves provides weekly removals to Brittany, serving all key départements:

• Côtes-d’Armor
• Finistère
• Ille-et-Vilaine
• Morbihan

Our team handles everything from the initial survey and packing to customs paperwork, ferry scheduling and delivery to rural villages or coastal towns.

Full & Part-Load Removals

Whether you are relocating a full household or just a few items, we offer:

• Dedicated full-load services — direct delivery, ideal for large moves
• Cost-effective part loads — perfect for smaller or flexible moves
• Man-and-van style services — ideal for apartments or lighter loads

Popular UK → Brittany Routes We Cover Regularly:

• London → Rennes
• Surrey → Vannes
• Hampshire → St-Malo
• Devon → Quimper
• Kent → Morlaix

Access Solutions for Rural Brittany

Many Breton homes — especially in villages and historic centres — have tight access. Central Moves provides:

• Trans-ship vehicles for narrow streets
• External elevators for upper floors
• Local assistance via our French partner network

No matter how rural or coastal your destination, we ensure safe, efficient delivery.

3. Customs Rules for Moving to Brittany Post-Brexit

Moving from the UK to Brittany means your belongings must pass through French customs (Douanes). This process is straightforward when handled correctly — and much easier when managed by an experienced removals company like Central Moves.

You will need:

• Passport
• French proof of residence (rental contract, property deed, utility setup letter etc.)
• Inventory list (English + French)
• Certificate of non-resale
• Cerfa 10070*01 customs form
• Employer transfer letter (if moving for work)

For a full explanation of the customs process, see our comprehensive guide:
French Customs Guide for UK Movers.

Once cleared, your belongings can be delivered anywhere in Brittany without further checks. If moving with plants see our guide on Moving plants to France

4. The Best Places to Live in Brittany

Brittany is split into four départements, each offering something unique. Whether you prefer coastal towns, rural countryside, bustling historic centres or quiet villages, Brittany has a location to match every lifestyle.

4.1 Ille-et-Vilaine (Rennes, St-Malo)

Ille-et-Vilaine is popular among UK professionals, digital nomads and families thanks to its modern infrastructure and excellent transport links.

Rennes

The regional capital, Rennes offers:

• A vibrant cultural scene
• Modern transport, including TGV access to Paris
• Strong job market in tech, education and healthcare
• Excellent schools and universities

Property is more affordable than Paris or Lyon while still offering big-city amenities.

St-Malo

A fortified coastal town known for:

• Beautiful beaches and maritime views
• Regular ferries from Portsmouth
• A calm, safe atmosphere ideal for retirees

St-Malo remains one of the closest French destinations to the UK.

4.2 Finistère (Quimper, Brest, Morlaix)

Finistère is one of the most scenic and traditional parts of Brittany — rugged coastlines, lighthouses, dramatic cliffs and peaceful fishing villages.

Quimper

Quimper’s medieval streets, cathedral and vibrant weekly markets make it one of Brittany’s most charming towns. UK movers love:

• Affordable stone houses
• Quiet lifestyle
• Strong arts and artisan culture

Brest

A modern, maritime city with:

• Major naval facilities
• Growing tech and marine industries
• Excellent transport links

Morlaix

Ideal for those seeking:

• Very low property prices
• Village charm
• A quiet, laid-back lifestyle

4.3 Morbihan (Vannes, Auray, Lorient)

Morbihan is known for its warm microclimate, sailing communities and picture-perfect old towns.

Vannes

One of Brittany’s most desirable towns thanks to:

• Stunning medieval architecture
• Yacht harbours and coastal scenery
• A strong expatriate community

Auray & The Gulf of Morbihan

Idyllic hamlets, sea views and high-quality stone houses. Many retirees choose this area for year-round tranquillity.

Lorient

A more affordable coastal option with ferry links and a strong maritime culture.

4.4 Côtes-d’Armor (Dinan, St-Brieuc, Paimpol)

This département is known for dramatic coastlines and some of Brittany’s most iconic villages.

Dinan

Arguably one of the prettiest medieval towns in France — cobbled streets, ramparts, river views and a thriving craft scene.

Paimpol & the Pink Granite Coast

These locations appeal to movers seeking:

• Breathtaking coastal scenery
• Walking trails
• Quieter, slower living

5. Property in Brittany: Buying, Renting & Prices

One of the biggest reasons UK residents move to Brittany is the excellent value of property. Prices vary across the region, but Brittany remains significantly more affordable than most parts of the UK.

5.1 Average Property Prices (2025/26 Overview)

As of 2025/26:

• Rural homes: €120,000 – €250,000
• Village houses: €140,000 – €300,000
• Town properties: €200,000 – €350,000
• Rennes city centre: €350,000+
• Coastal towns (e.g. Vannes, St-Malo): €350,000 – €650,000

Renovation projects remain extremely popular, with many rural stone houses offering exceptional value — but renovations can require patience due to local permit processes.

5.2 Renting in Brittany

Rental markets are stable and significantly cheaper than in Paris, Bordeaux or Lyon. Average rents include:

• 1-bedroom apartment: €450–€650 per month
• 3-bedroom house: €700–€1,200 per month
• Premium coastal homes: €1,200–€1,800 per month

Many UK movers choose to rent temporarily while exploring different areas of Brittany before purchasing property.

6. Cost of Living in Brittany vs the UK

Brittany offers a noticeably lower cost of living compared to southern England and most major UK cities. While prices vary by area, the overall difference is significant.

Key Savings for UK Movers:

• Property: 30–60% cheaper on average
• Local taxes: Lower than many UK council tax rates
• Food & markets: Fresh produce is excellent value
• Healthcare: High quality with lower out-of-pocket costs
• Childcare: Considerably more affordable than UK equivalents

Typical Monthly Costs (2025/26 Averages)

• Utilities (electricity, heating, water): €120–€180
• Internet/phone: €25–€40
• Groceries for two: €250–€350
• Fuel: Comparable to UK levels

While Brittany is not as inexpensive as some inland French regions, it remains one of the best-value coastal regions in Western Europe.

See our guide on the cost of moving furniture to France

7. Schools & Education in Brittany

Brittany has a highly regarded education system with a large network of public, private and bilingual (French–Breton) schools. For UK families moving to Brittany, the school structure is straightforward:

• Maternelle: Nursery (ages 3–6)
• École primaire: Primary school (ages 6–11)
• Collège: Lower secondary (ages 11–15)
• Lycée: Upper secondary (ages 15–18)

Private & International Schools

Brittany has several private schools and a small number of bilingual programmes, particularly in:

• Rennes
• Vannes
• St-Malo

International schools are limited, but Rennes offers the best English-language options for expatriates.

Admissions

The admissions process is structured but accessible. Most families need:

• Proof of address
• Vaccination records
• Birth certificate
• Previous school reports (translated if necessary)

8. Healthcare & Social Security in Brittany

Brittany benefits from France’s high-quality healthcare system, ranked among the best in Europe. UK movers who become residents gain access to the state system, known as the Sécurité Sociale, which covers a substantial percentage of medical costs.

How UK Expats Register for Healthcare

Once resident in Brittany, you can apply for state health cover by registering with your local CPAM (Caisse Primaire d’Assurance Maladie). You will need:

• Proof of address in Brittany
• Passport and visa (if applicable)
• Birth certificate
• Proof of income or employment status
• Marriage certificate (for family cover)

Once approved, you receive a Carte Vitale, which you show at medical appointments to receive subsidised treatment.

What About Top-Up Insurance (Mutuelle)?

Many residents take out a mutuelle, a top-up insurance that covers the portion not reimbursed by the state. Costs vary, but mutuelles are much more affordable than UK private healthcare plans.

9. Jobs, Work & the Local Economy

Brittany has a diverse and stable economy, combining traditional industries with emerging tech, maritime and environmental sectors. While many UK movers arrive with remote jobs, the region also offers local employment opportunities.

Key Employment Sectors in Brittany

• Technology & digital services (Rennes is a major tech hub)
• Healthcare and social care
• Maritime industries (Brest, Lorient)
• Agriculture and agrifood
• Tourism & hospitality (coastal areas)
• Education (universities and schools)

If you work remotely, Brittany is ideal. Fibre broadband availability is excellent, even in many rural areas.

Business & Self-Employment

France supports new businesses through the micro-entrepreneur scheme, which is popular with:

• tradespeople
• creative professionals
• consultants
• online service providers

The process is structured but achievable, and many UK expats successfully launch businesses in Brittany.

10. What It’s Really Like to Live in Brittany

Life in Brittany is relaxed, scenic and community-oriented. The region offers an exceptional quality of life, with a strong cultural identity and deep connection to the sea.

10.1 Weather & Climate

Brittany has a mild Atlantic climate with:

• Warm but not overly hot summers
• Cool, damp winters
• More sunshine than southern England

10.2 Culture & Traditions

Breton culture is distinct, with its own:

• language (Breton and Gallo)
• traditional festivals
• folk music and dance
• cuisine (crêpes, cider, seafood)

10.3 Community & Expat Life

There are established British communities across Brittany, especially in:

• Morbihan
• Côtes-d’Armor
• Ille-et-Vilaine

However, Brittany maintains its authenticity — it never feels “touristy” or overly internationalised, making integration rewarding and genuine.

11. Moving Tips from Central Moves

With decades of experience managing removals to Brittany, we’ve learned what makes a move smooth, stress-free and efficient. Here are our key recommendations:

• Book early — especially for summer and school holiday periods.
• Prepare customs documents in advance to avoid clearance delays.
• Consider a part-load to France if your move dates are flexible — it can reduce costs significantly.
• Label essentials clearly so they’re easy to access on arrival.
• Check access at your French property — rural and coastal towns often require trans-ship vehicles.
• Use professional packing for fragile items and antiques.
• Ask us about storage — useful if your property isn’t ready yet.

See our guide on moving to France from the UK

12. FAQ: Moving to Brittany from the UK

Is Brittany a good place for UK expats?

Yes — Brittany offers a high quality of life, affordable housing, good healthcare and easy UK access. It is especially popular with families, retirees and remote workers.

How long does a removal to Brittany take?

Dedicated removals can take as little as 1–2 days depending on loading location and ferry schedules. Part loads may take slightly longer as they are consolidated with other shipments.

Do I need to complete customs paperwork?

Yes. Moving from the UK to France requires customs clearance. Central Moves manages this process and prepares your inventory and documents.

What areas of Brittany are most popular with British families?

Rennes, Vannes, St-Malo, Quimper and Dinan are among the top choices.

Is healthcare expensive in Brittany?

No. State healthcare is excellent and affordable. A top-up mutuelle helps cover additional costs.

Plan Your Move to Brittany with Central Moves

Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement or a complete lifestyle change, Central Moves provides a professional, reliable removals service from the UK to every corner of Brittany.

We offer:

• Weekly removals to all départements
• Full or part-load options
• Expert packing and export wrapping
• Customs documentation support
• Storage in both the UK and France
• Specialist handling for pianos, antiques and fragile items

Speak to our European Move Co-ordinator today and let us help make your relocation to Brittany smooth, cost-effective and stress-free.