Former Northampton back-rower Dowson will go back to Franklin’s Gardens this summer as an assistant coach, filling the role vacated by Alex King in October.
Dowson, who started his rugby career at Wigton Rugby Club and grew-up in Caldbeck, is currently playing for Worcester Warriors.
He spent eight years at Newcastle before switching to Northampton in 2009, helping the Saints land the Premiership title in 2014.
The 35-year-old will be part of a new-look coaching line-up at the Saints and admitted he is excited ahead of his return.
“The Saints was where I enjoyed most of my success as a player, and in my six years there, we were competing in semi-finals and finals each season,” said Dowson in a Northampton statement.
“So, while I’m sad to be retiring, this is a great opportunity to get involved with the club that I love.
“I obviously know Jim [Mallinder, Northampton rugby director], Dorian [West, forwards coach], Alan [Dickens, attack coach] and Mark [Hopley, supervising defence] really well, and how the club works, and this will be a massive help as I make the transition into the next stage of my career on to what will be a steep learning curve.
“Franklin’s Gardens is a special place and throughout the club – players, coaches, staff, owners and supporters – everyone wants the Saints to be successful.
"It’s a strong club with strong values and culture and I’m looking forward to getting on the other side of the fence and helping the players get better and to achieve things.”
Dowson is one of just four players to make more than 250 Aviva Premiership appearances.
He has been capped seven times by England.
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