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What’s the London Crime Rate? A Closer Look and Safety Tips for Visitors
Exploring the City with Confidence
As one of the world’s most visited cities, London captivates millions of tourists every year with its rich history, iconic landmarks, and bustling atmosphere.
While it’s true that crime exists in the capital, as in any other major city, it’s important to understand the facts and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
In this article, we’ll delve into London’s crime rate, provide a breakdown of the crime map, and offer practical safety tips for your visit.
Understanding the Numbers: London’s Crime Rate in Perspective
According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), crime rates in London have been on the rise in recent years, with a notable increase in violent crime.
In the year ending March 2021, over 147,000 violent crimes were recorded in the capital, marking a 4% increase compared to the previous year.
However, it’s crucial to put these numbers into context: London’s crime rate remains lower than that of other major cities worldwide, such as New York and Paris.
Crime rates in London, United Kingdom
| Level of crime | 63.41 | High |
| Crime increasing in the past 3 years | 69.21 | High |
| Worries home broken and things stolen | 47.35 | Moderate |
| Worries being mugged or robbed | 57.08 | Moderate |
| Worries car stolen | 43.1 | Moderate |
| Worries things from car stolen | 50.12 | Moderate |
| Worries attacked | 53.83 | Moderate |
| Worries being insulted | 54.37 | Moderate |
| Worries being subject to a physical attack because of your skin color, ethnic origin, gender or religion | 40.33 | Moderate |
| Problem people using or dealing drugs | 61.82 | High |
| Problem property crimes such as vandalism and theft | 57.73 | Moderate |
| Problem violent crimes such as assault and armed robbery | 57.11 | Moderate |
| Problem corruption and bribery | 38.29 | Low |
Safety in London, United Kingdom
| Safety walking alone during daylight | 64.78 | High |
| Safety walking alone during night | 38.93 | Low |
Crime Map Breakdown for London City:
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Staying Safe in London: Practical Tips for a Worry-Free Visit
To maximize your safety while exploring London, consider the following tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings: Stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas or when walking alone at night. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid isolated locations.
- Choose reputable transportation: For nighttime travel, opt for trusted taxis or ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. If using public transport, wait in well-lit areas and try to sit near the driver or other passengers.
- Secure your belongings: Pickpocketing can be a concern, especially in popular tourist spots. Keep your belongings close, and consider using a money belt or hidden pouch for valuables.
- Avoid confrontations: If you find yourself in a tense situation, remain calm and try to remove yourself from the scene as quickly as possible.
- Stay informed: The Metropolitan Police Service (MPS) offers valuable resources for tourists and visitors on its website, including safety advice, crime reporting guidelines, and more.
Safe Accommodation in London: table of the best hotels
In order to know the safest hotels to stay in London, I have made a table that summarizes best hotels by price and neighborhood!
| HOtel | Neighborhood | price |
|---|---|---|
| The Z Hotel Victoria | Westminster | 150€ |
| Park Plaza Westminster Bridge London | Westminster | 200€ |
| Conrad London St James | Westminster | 350€ |
| The Z Hotel Piccadilly | Soho – Covent Garden – Piccadilly | 160€ |
| The Nadler Soho | Soho – Covent Garden – Piccadilly | 230€ |
| Hotel Cafe Royal | Soho – Covent Garden – Piccadilly | 560€ |
| Park Grand London Kensington | Chelsea – Kensington | 190€ |
| San Domenico House | Chelsea – Kensington | 245€ |
| The Franklin Hotel | Chelsea – Kensington | 380€ |
| Portobello House | Notting Hill | 160€ |
| The Portobello Hotel | Notting Hill | 230€ |
| The Laslett | Notting Hill | 300€ |
| Camden Enterprise Hotel | Camden Town | 150€ |
| York & Albany | Camden Town | 200€ |
| The Level at Melia White House | Camden Town | 350€ |
| The Z Hotel Gloucester Place | Mayfair – Marylebone | 150€ |
| The May Fair Hotel | Mayfair – Marylebone | 350€ |
| The Ritz London | Mayfair – Marylebone | 500€ |
| Holiday Inn Express Southwark | Southbank – Southward | 200€ |
| The LaLit London | Southbank – Southward | 335€ |
| Mondrian London | Southbank – Southward | 500€ |
| citizenM Tower of London | The City | 220€ |
| Andaz London Liverpool Street | The City | 350€ |
| Threadneedles, Autograph Collection | The City | 500€ |
| The Z Hotel Shoreditch | Shoreditch – Brick Lane | 160€ |
| M by Montcalm Shoreditch London Tech City | Shoreditch – Brick Lane | 300€ |
| Ace Hotel London Shoreditch | Shoreditch – Brick Lane | 300€ |
| Palmer Lodge Swiss Cottage | Cheap hotels | 20€ |
| St Christope Inn Oasis – London Bridge – Female Only | Cheap hotels | 30€ |
| SoHostel | Cheap hotels | 30€ |
| Safestay London Kensington Holland Park | Cheap hotels | 30€ |
| Apartment Holcroft Court | Accommodation with family | 230€ |
| Private Apartments – Covent Garden – Leicester Square | Accommodation with family | 280€ |
| Grange City Hotel | Accommodation with family | 330€ |
| Club Quarters Hotel, Trafalgar Square | Accommodation with family | 370€ |
In conclusion, while London has experienced an increase in crime rates in recent years, it’s crucial to keep these numbers in perspective and take proactive steps to ensure your safety. By remaining vigilant, choosing reputable transportation, safeguarding your belongings, avoiding confrontations, and staying informed, you can experience all the wonders of London with confidence and peace of mind.
For additional information on staying safe in London, consult the MPS website or speak with your hotel or travel agent. Don’t let concerns about crime detract from your enjoyment of this incredible city. Stay safe and relish all that London has to offer!
Are you going to London? Read also
- Top 20 Things to Do in London – Ultimate Travel Guide
- Itinerary: 3 days in London – Ultimate Travel Guide
- 5 Days in London: Itinerary with Top 20 Things to Do
- 7 Days in London: Ultimate 1-Week Itinerary
- Where to Stay in London: Selection of Best Accommodation
