London is one of the main attractions for tourists and millions of people visit every year for business and entertainment purposes. London is one of the places which provides a glimpse of both modern and old civilisation. London is famous for its rich cultural history and vibrant lifestyle.
London is the capital city of the UK and is the most densely populated making it rank at number 1. Millions of people visit London every year due to the business opportunities which is why, the crime rate there is also high. You need to be very careful and alert while exploring London. Crimes including drugs, theft, snatching, and burglary are common. As a #1 security company, Guard Mark Security always cares about the people and shares tips that can help them protect themselves in tough times.
We have been writing about the crime rates in the different cities of the UK for a long time and now we think security tips are also necessary so that you can take care of yourself. In this article, we are going to tell you how you can stay safe while visiting London. Moreover, we’re going to share the top 7 areas in London that have the highest crime rates as per the data available on public sources from December 2023 to Dec 2024. So, without wasting any time, let’s start discussing the crime rates and safety tips in London.
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Which London Boroughs Have The Highest Crime Rates?
Here are the top 7 cities ranked based on the crime rates as per the data shared by Metropolitan Police. Moreover, we have displayed the crime rate per 1000 population for a better understanding.
1- Westminster
Westminster is the number one areas with the highest number of crimes and illegal activities. This area gets the most tourists because everyone visiting London must visit Westminster as well. The overall crime rate of Westminster is 386.4 crimes per 1,000 residents. Moreover, the total number of crimes that happened in the past 12 months is 100,639. Such a high number of crimes makes Westminster one of the most dangerous areas in Greater Manchester.
The most common and prominent crimes in the area were theft (65,559 incidents), violence against the person (11,920 incidents), vehicle offence (4,612 incidents), robberies (4,158 cases), public order offences (3,826 incidents), drug offences (2,397 incidents), burglary (3,329 cases), arson and criminal damage (2,597 incidents), sexual offences (1,619 incidents), and possession of weapon (281 offences). In this time period of 12 months, the crime rate in Westminster increased by 1.6%.
2- Camden
Camden is famous for its live music, rich history, and modern lifestyle. Tourists love to visit this place due to having the national museum and London Zoo. Due to having such attractions, this results in large crowds that attract thieves and pickpockets. The overall crime rate of Camden from Dec 2023 to Dec 2024 is 185.1 crimes per 1,000 residents making it the second most dangerous area in Manchester.
The most common crimes here are theft (23,234 incidents), violence against the person (7,693 offences), vehicle offences (3,262 incidents), burglary (2,512 cases), public order offences (2,416 incidents), drug offences (1,560 incidents), arson and criminal damage (1,975 cases), robberies (1,954 incidents), sexual offences (933 incidents), miscellaneous crimes against society (227 incidents), and possession of weapon (138 cases). Additionally, in the last year, the crime rate in Camden hiked by 7.5%.
3- Kensington & Chelsea
Kensington & Chelsea is one of the richest areas and home to some of the wealthiest people slices in London. But doesn’t mean it is safe as well. According to the statistics we have here, the overall crime rate of Kensington & Chelsea is 157.3 crimes per 1,000 residents making it the 3rd most dangerous area in Manchester.
The most prominent crimes here are theft (10,343 incidents), violence against the person (4,833 incidents), vehicle offences (2,904 cases), burglary (1,633 incidents), drug offences (922 incidents), arson and criminal damage (1,264 incidents), public order offences (1,233 incidents), robberies (755 cases), sexual offences (595 incidents), possession of weapons (135 cases), and miscellaneous crimes against society (159 incidents). These crime rates highlight the need for improved security measures. In the last year, the crime rate in Kensington & Chelsea increased by 1.0%.
4- Islington
Islington is famous for its universities and student areas. You might be thinking that the area with the most number of students should be the safest. But despite having the largest number of students, the area is vulnerable to many crimes and illegal activities. What’s more shocking is most crimes that happen in the area are done by students. The overall crime rate in Islington is 137.0 crimes per 1,000 residents and the total number of reported crimes in the last year is 32,633 making it the fourth most dangerous area in Manchester.
The most prominent crimes here are theft (13,115 incidents), violence against the person (7,352 incidents), vehicle offences (2,650 cases), public order offences (2,018 incidents), burglary (1,942 incidents), drug offences (1,222 incidents), arson and criminal damage (1,780 incidents), robberies (1,332 incidents), sexual offences (788 incidents), miscellaneous crimes against society (266 incidents), and possession of weapons (161 cases). In the past year, the crime rate in Islington increased by 6.4%.
5- Southwark
Southwark is an area well known for its lifestyle and vibrant environment. People and tourists often visit the area not knowing about its crime rates and the threats it poses. The overall crime rate of Southwark is 132.4 crimes per 1,000 residents and the total number of crimes happened is 42,690.
The most prominent crimes here are theft (18,141 incidents), violence against the person (8,944 incidents), vehicle offences (3,057 incidents), burglary (2,595 incidents), drug offences (1,634 incidents), robberies (2,292 incidents), arson and criminal damage (2,203 incidents), public order offences (2,156 incidents), sexual offences (1,131 incidents), possession of weapons (254 incidents), and miscellaneous crimes against society (278 incidents). The overall crime rate of Southwark hicked by 6.5% according to the data we have from Dec 2023 to Dec 2024.
6- Hackney
Hackney is one of the cities that contributes to the UK’s economy by a huge margin because it is recognised as one of the best cities with independent businesses. Moreover, the city has amazing nightlife and vibrant culture. Despite having such positive attributes, the crime rate in Hackney is increasing every year. The overall crime rate of Hackney is 128.7 crimes per 1,000 residents and the total number of crimes that happened is 36,245.
The most common crimes here are theft (13,283 incidents), violence against the person (8,621 incidents), vehicle offences (2,833 incidents), burglary (2,454 incidents), public order offences (2,296 incidents), drug offences (1,489 incidents), arson and criminal damage (1,914 incidents), robberies (1,917 incidents), sexual offences (958 incidents), miscellaneous crimes against society (266 incidents), and possession of weapons (208 incidents). Additionally, in the last year, the crime rate in Hackney has increased by 5.6%.
7- Hammersmith & Fulham
Hammersmith & Fulham are well known and famous for their event venues and attractions. As a huge number of foreigners visit the area, scam is also a huge issue in the area. The overall crime rate of Hammersmith & Fulham is 125.2 crimes per 1,000 residents and the total number of crimes that happened is 23,031.
The most common crimes here are theft (7,383 incidents), violence against the person (6,047 incidents), vehicle offences (2,235 incidents), public order offences (1,762 incidents), drug offences (1,100 incidents), burglary (1,524 incidents), arson and criminal damage (1,331 incidents), robberies (695 incidents), sexual offences (627 incidents), miscellaneous crimes against society (207 incidents), and possession of weapons (113 incidents). The crime rates in the area decreased by 2.2% in the last year which is an achievement of the police and local authorities.
Best Tips for Staying Safe in London
To help you stay safe while exploring London, we’ve put together some practical tips to safeguard yourself and your belongings. Whether you’re a tourist or a resident, these suggestions can help you feel more secure as you navigate the city.
London unsoundly is one of the places people wish to visit due to its charm, attractive sites, vibrant lifestyle, and more. But as the crime rates in London increase, visitors should pay attention to such issues. Moreover, the permanent residents living in London should also take some preventive measures. Here are some of the best tips to help you stay safe while enjoying everything London has to offer.
Analyse Your Surroundings All the Time
Analysing your surroundings is one of the best things you can do to ensure your safety. As London is a tourist place, people often visit the city to explore the culture which attracts thieves and pickpockets. No matter if you are walking through a busy road or travelling via public transport (bus, train, etc), make sure to keep your eyes open and analyse the people around you. This will help you prevent theft or pickpocketing.
Check Your Pockets Every 10 Minutes
When walking through busy roads and on public transport, it is good if you keep your hand in your pockets or keep checking your pockets every 10 minutes. Pickpockets first analyse their target and only steal the money from those who are distracted. When you keep checking your pockets, it will help you stay away from such people.
Split the Bills
When travelling, try splitting the bills in every pocket. Don’t just put all the money in one pocket. Moreover, you can use a wallet to distract the pickpocket and thieves. In this scenario, you need to have a wallet in your pocket but don’t put all your money in it. Split the bills and save them in the different pockets. This way, even if the pickpockets take your wallet, you will have enough emergency funds.
Don’t Walk Alone During Nighttime
The violent crimes in London are increasing. So, it will be wise if you don’t walk alone at night. Walking alone at night can make you a potential target for theft or violent crimes. Instead, you can ask your friends for a ride or book a taxi that can help you reach your home. Remember, in such times, if the taxi driver asks for some extra fare, do not hesitate to pay because most of the taxi fare increases after 12 a night.
This small amount of money will save you from a big loss. Imagine you don’t want to pay £5 or £10 extra and decide to walk alone at night but on the way home, some robbers rob you and take all your money, mobile, body accessories, and more. Even in such situations, they can beat you to death. So, always pay the small to save the big.
Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is one of the things we suggest tourists and residents always have in their pockets. With the help of pepper spray, you can avoid the violent situations. Even if someone is harassing you, pepper spray can help you blind them for 4-5 minutes which is enough time to disappear. You can also find the local police at this time to report the crime. Another benefit of pepper spray is that you can spray from a distance and you don’t need to get close to the harasser or the person creating issues for you.
Keep a Gas Lighter
Gas lighter is one of the safety accessories very few know about. You might be hearing it for the first time but as a security company, we know how effective this thing is. One thing that you need to take care of is we are not talking about the normal lighters (commonly known as petrol lighters). We are talking about the gas lighter from which the flame comes out with a huge pressure.
Keep those lighters with maximum heat in your pocket or bag and can use them if someone tries to harass you. All you have to do is start the lighter fire and just touch the flame on the person’s body. It will burn the skin of that part in seconds and the person will not dare to get close to you again.
Plan Before Leaving
Planning is one of the things that should be done before leaving your destination. Whether you are travelling alone or with family or friends, always plan ahead for your visit. Moreover, just like splitting the money in your pockets and bags, make copies of your passport, licences, and event passes and store them in the different parts of the bags. This will help you ensure you have a backup that can be used if you lose the original ones.
Always Choose the Safe Transportation Options
London boasts a well-connected transport system, including extensive bus routes and the famous Tube network, which can take you to all major areas of the city. Public transport is generally a safe way to get around, with the British Transport Police providing security and support across railways and the London Underground.
Another reliable option is London’s iconic black cabs, which you’ll find lined up at taxi ranks across the city. Taking a taxi is a safer alternative to walking alone at night, particularly if you’re unsure of your destination. However, it’s essential to ensure you choose a licenced taxi. All London taxi drivers are licenced and regulated by Transport for London and the Metropolitan Police. Each driver carries a unique badge number issued by Transport for London, which should always be visible.
For added safety, try to book your taxi in advance. When you do, request details such as the driver’s name, vehicle type, and licence plate number. It’s also a good idea to share your trip details with a friend or family member so they can track your journey in real-time.
Choose Guard Mark Security for London Security
At Guard Mark Security, we provide professional, reliable security solutions tailored to meet your needs. Whether you’re looking for on-site security guards, CCTV monitoring, or rapid alarm response, our services are designed to protect you and your business effectively.
All our security personnel are fully SIA-licenced and have undergone thorough vetting, ensuring the highest level of trust and professionalism. We take pride in offering dependable services that safeguard your property, assets, and people.
With Guard Mark Security, you can count on:
- Tailored security solutions to match your unique requirements
- Highly trained, vetted, and licenced security staff
- Rapid response times and 24/7 support through our dedicated control centre
If you have any questions related to our services, we are just a ring away. Contact us now and we will be more than happy to assist you in everything.
