Occupying time if single

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of employment? 

Yes, I  like cycling,  walking, yoga, reading, art (haven't drawn or painted in many years but would like to pursue again) music (been trying on and off to learn piano and guitar for a few years)

I am assuming you are a UK resident and are aware of the NLV process.
You put the location as Alicante City and whilst there are Brits there you will find far more in areas such as around Torrevieja and the Orihuela Costa further south and Benidorm further north where you will find groups for all of your interests.

Cheryl has answered as I would have. 

There are many groups that cover your fields of interest, all you have to do is go to them, they won't come and find you. 

If you want to come and live here in Spain then you will need to apply for a visa from the Spanish consulate while you are still living in the UK. You will need to meet the income and healthcare requirements. 

If you search out the meeting place for the local U3A groups you can join many social groups that they organise. 

Steve 

Thanks for replying to my query. Wasn't aware of NLV but I am irish/EU citizen so don't think I need one. Healthcare is something I need to look into though as I've been working in England for 34 years. 

You are correct that you don’t need the visa if you hold your Irish passport. You do still need to register as a resident if you plan to spend more than 90 days there . It is a much quicker , easier and with much less monetary requirements than the NLV . The Irish gov web site (dfi.ie?) has information on there 

Contact Alfonso of Gran Alacant Insurances who advertise down the right hand side of this page. Highly recommended.
Also research "Convenio Especial" which you can join after the first year of private medical insurance. Either way you will pay towards your medication and all dental work is private.