CCTV cameras are undoubtedly one of the best inventions of this digital era in the security industry. These security cameras are now a part of our lives and give us a sense of security and protection. Whether it’s the corporate buildings, public transport, common roads, or public entertainment spots, we witness the CCTV security cameras everywhere that give us hope that experts are watching us and will help if something happens to us.
Having CCTV cameras everywhere gives us protection and security but it is also an issue for some who take their privacy seriously. Many people in the United Kingdom have the stance that these cameras violate our privacy and record our personal moments for life. Moreover, these cameras can be hacked and the footage can be used to blackmail us. Additionally, our privacy can be violated by sharing our personal life on social media and the dark web.
Guard Mark Security has been covering topics related to crime in the UK for a long time and our audience knows that we always give an unbiased perspective and always discuss the statistics shared and published by the governmental authorities. In today’s article, we are going to talk about the 15 most-watched cities in the UK. We will tell you about the cities that contain most CCTV cameras in the UK and then we’ll discuss what you can do to enhance the safety and security of your premises and loved ones.
Table of Contents
How Guard Mark Security has sourced the Data?
At Guard Mark Security, we always give our best to research and show the statistics that are true, confirmed, and legitimate. But when it comes to the CCTV cameras, it is not possible for us to count each and every one.
However, we have tried our best to get the data from different sources that are legitimate and trustworthy. We have gathered this data from different governmental platforms and also used the Freedom of Information request to get legitimate information from the government.
At Guard Mark Security, we provide expert insights on the most dangerous areas across the UK and crime rates in congested locations like London, helping you stay informed and secure.
Moreover, we have gathered information from the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) to share the total number of cameras in the UK. We have also checked the previous research shared by BSIA but later, the research did not give a clearer picture. BSIA did another research in 2022 which is called the most extensive research for CCTV and video surveillance cameras in the UK.
How Many CCTV Cameras Are There In The UK?
CCTV cameras are needed in today’s world where crimes are increasing by a huge margin. When talking about the UK, the crime rate after the pandemic is increasing. Despite the police’s best efforts, the crime rate is increasing in certain regions including some of the most important cities including London, Birmingham, Leeds, Bradford, Manchester, and more.
When discussing the total number of cameras in the UK, according to research conducted by the British Security Industry Association (BSIA) in 2022, the total number of video surveillance cameras in the UK is around 21.1 million. Remember, we do not include residential cameras or in-house cameras.
Also, the dashcams are not included in this research. When compared with the other major countries, China is at number one with 200 million cameras and the United States of America (USA) is at the 2nd spot with almost 50 million cameras around the country.
Moreover, BSIA stated that there is a significant increase of 300% in CCTV cameras installation after 2013 which are recording and protecting people’s assets, properties, lives, and more.
CCTV Surveillance in the 15 Most Watched Cities in the UK (2025)
| Rank | City | CCTV Cameras City-Wide |
|---|---|---|
| 15 | Nottingham | Approximately 25,484 |
| 14 | Wakefield | Approximately 26,456 |
| 13 | Coventry | Approximately 26,563 |
| 12 | Leicester | Approximately 27,492 |
| 11 | Cardiff | Approximately 27,870 |
| 10 | Bristol | Approximately 35,931 |
| 9 | Liverpool | Approximately 38,214 |
| 8 | Edinburgh | Approximately 40,498 |
| 7 | Bradford | Approximately 41,306 |
| 6 | Manchester | Approximately 42,556 |
| 5 | Sheffield | Approximately 44,925 |
| 4 | Glasgow | Approximately 48,856 |
| 3 | Leeds | Approximately 60,963 |
| 2 | Birmingham | Approximately 88,384 |
| 1 | London | Approximately 690,923 |
The 15 Most Monitored Cities in the UK
1- London
London is the capital of England and is famous for many things including its rich culture and history. Millions of tourists visit London every year to make some amazing memories with their loved ones and if going to London; Buckingham Palace, Tower Bridge, the House of the Parliament, the Tower of London, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, and more.
If you are a history lover and wish to visit the museums, the British Museum and Natural History Museum are the places for you. London is also well known for the changing of the guards, red buses, and black cabs.
There are many factors in which London is at the number one spot including knife crimes, gun crimes, theft, and many more. You might be shocked to hear that London has the highest number of CCTV cameras and is the most monitored city in the whole of the United Kingdom. London is the capital of the UK and has the highest population due to which this city witnesses the highest number of crimes every year.
In London alone, there are almost 690,923 active CCTV cameras. Out of this figure, 63,449 are public CCTV cameras including the metropolitan police and their bodycams as well.
Moreover, London is one of the most volatile cities and has a complete underground network. Let’s break down London’s Boroughs’s CCTV cameras and underground CCTV data information to see which borough and station contains the most cameras.
CCTV Surveillance in London (2025)
| London Boroughs CCTV Cameras | London Underground CCTV Cameras |
|---|---|
| Total number of Cameras – 20,873 CCTV cameras | Total Underground station cameras: 16,391 |
| Hillingdon – 2,328 CCTV cameras | King’s Cross & St. Pancras – 408 CCTV cameras |
| Hammersmith & Fulham – 1,852 CCTV cameras | Oxford Circus – 309 CCTV cameras |
| Wandsworth – 1,252 CCTV cameras | Waterloo – 303 CCTV cameras |
| City of London – 1,100 CCTV cameras | Green Park – 210 CCTV cameras |
| Enfield – 1,053 CCTV cameras | Elephant & Castle – 190 CCTV cameras |
2- Birmingham
Birmingham is renowned for its rich history in the Industrial Revolution, art, and music venues. Birmingham is also called the first manufacturing town in the world and is famous for its part in the industry and manufacturing.
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is also home to more than 2,000 art pieces of Pre-Raphaelite art and millions of people visit every year to see these astonishing art pieces. When talking about the other attractions, you can explore Cadbury World, Black Country Living Museum, and Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham.
When talking about the most monitored cities in the United Kingdom, Birmingham is in the second spot with 88,384 CCTV cameras across the city. Birmingham is the 2nd most populated city in the United Kingdom and has many places that are vulnerable to many threats including the airport.
Moreover, Birmingham’s economy is increasing by a huge margin creating opportunities for new businesses and investors. Birmingham has many crime issues but when we compare the recent years, the crime rate is gradually decreasing creating hope for the residents and visitors alike. (See out most dangerous areas in Birmingham).
3- Leeds
Leeds is mostly famous for its crime and illegal activities but many don’t know that there are tons of positive attributes of Leeds in which the most renowned is its vibrant nightlife. There are many venues and bars you can visit to spend some quality time with your loved ones. Leeds is also famous for its culture from which the students and young people can learn a lot of things.
When talking about diversity, Leed’s Kirkgate Maret is the place for you. Moreover, there are many places you can explore including the Royal Armouries Museum, Kirkstall Abbey, and Yorkshire Hub.
Leeds saved its spot at the 3rd number when talking about the most monitored cities across the UK. Leeds is one of the most important and crucial economic cities and contributes a lot to the UK’s economy. Unlike many other densely packed cities in the UK, Leeds benefits from an expanse of green belt land interspersed throughout the city, creating a refreshing balance between natural tranquillity and modern city life.
Despite its appealing landscape, Leeds is no stranger to the challenges that come with being a major urban centre. With an estimated 60,963 CCTV cameras keeping watch over the city, including 376 operated by the local government, these security measures aim to provide a sense of safety for residents and visitors. However, the rising crime rate in the city, which currently stands at 172.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, highlights the ongoing need for robust safety measures and community vigilance.(See out most dangerous areas in Leeds).
4- Glasgow
Glasgow in Scotland is famous for its diverse culture, architecture, music, and history, Due to this diverse culture and history, Glasgow is called one of the world’s friendliest cities. In 2008, Glasgow was named the UNESCO City of Music due to its continuous involvement in music and venues.
Moreover, Glasgow has the most renowned art galleries and museums, Additionally, it is famous for historic Victorian architecture, big filming locations, sporting excellence, and food & drink scenes.
It’s no surprise that Glasgow ranks among the most monitored cities in the UK. With approximately 48,856 CCTV cameras in place across the city, the local authorities are making significant efforts to enhance public safety.
5- Sheffield
Sheffield is also called the “Steel City” due to its large production of steel and products. Sheffield is also famous for the high-quality production of cutlery products including knives, spoons, and more. Sheffield-made knives are so popular in the world that appeared in Canterbury Tales.
There are many other things that increase the importance of Sheffield including the green spaces and outdoor places. Sheffield is also home to two of the most iconic football clubs; Sheffield United and Sheffield Wednesday.
With its growing popularity, Sheffield relies on a strong network of CCTV cameras for safety and monitoring. The city has around 44,925 cameras, but only 159 of these are managed by the city council, a fact that has sparked some local debates. This comes as Sheffield faces a rising crime rate, with 102.7 incidents per 1,000 population.
6- Manchester
Manchester is known as the Capital of the North and is famous for its culture, architecture, museums, and TV soap operas. Manchester has two most famous football clubs in the world; Manchester City and Manchester United. Football lovers often witness these two football clubs on international platforms on blue and red sides.
Many other things make Manchester famous including Coronation Street, Music, the University of Manchester, The Industrial Revolution, The Worker Bee, The Suffragette Movement, Vimto, Manchester Arndale, and Green Spaces.
Manchester is heavily monitored, with an estimated 42,556 CCTV cameras across the city. Of these, 1,195 are operated by the city council, making up about 2.8% of the total. This widespread surveillance is a response to the city’s high crime rate, which stands at 180.7 incidents per 1,000 residents. The measures reflect the ongoing efforts to tackle crime in this bustling urban area.
7- Bradford
Bradford is well known and famous for its wool industry and filmed heritage. In fact, Bradford was called “The Wool City of the World” due to its huge production. It also has the achievement of becoming the first UNESCO City of Film.
When talking about the other attractions, Bradford has The National Science and Media Museum, Lister Park, Cliffe Castle Museum, Bingley Five Rise Locks, Bradford City Park, and Ilkley.
Bradford has also seen an increase in surveillance to address safety concerns. The city has around 41,306 CCTV cameras, including more than 400 managed by the city council. These cameras are strategically placed to tackle criminal activity and help keep the streets safe for residents and visitors alike.
8- Edinburgh
Edinburgh is renowned for its rich history, architecture, and cultural festivals. The cultural festivals of Edinburgh are so famous that millions of tourists visit every year to witness those festivals to ensure they are aware of their culture and values. You might be shocked to hear that Edinburgh is the birthplace of one of the most iconic novels “Harry Potter” and most of the books were written there.
Other famous and well-known attractions of Edinburgh are Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse, The Scotch Whisky Experience, and Calton Hill.
Edinburgh’s modern approach includes extensive surveillance, with about 40,498 CCTV cameras keeping an eye on its busy streets and nightlife areas. Of these, 205 are operated by the local government. This level of monitoring is part of the city’s efforts to maintain safety, which reflects in its relatively low crime rate of 61.6 incidents per 1,000 population.
9- Liverpool
Liverpool is famous for its world-class music scenes and is the home to Britain’s biggest cathedral. Liverpool is also the city that built the first inter-city railway. When talking about the museums in the UK, London has the most and Liverpool is in the 2nd spot in preserving history.
When talking about the top attractions and sightseeing places in Liverpool, you can explore Royal Albert Dock Liverpool, Anfield, the Beatless Storey Museum, the Museum of Liverpool, the Walker Art Gallery, Maritime Museum, Sefton Park, Goodison Park, Tate Liverpool, and More.
However, Liverpool’s active lifestyle also means extensive surveillance. With an estimated 38,214 CCTV cameras, the city has one of the largest monitoring networks in the UK. Among these, 1,495 cameras are managed by the city council to help address rising crime rates, making Liverpool one of the most closely watched cities on this list.
10- Bristol
Bristol is famous for its rich history, harbour, museums, and architecture. When talking about architecture, Bristol has Clifton Suspension Bridge, St Mary Redcliffe Church, and Cabot Tower you can explore.
In terms of museums, it has the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery and M Shed where you can spend some quality time and gain some serious knowledge about ancient civilisations and history.
Bristol’s security infrastructure is also modern, with about 35,931 CCTV cameras keeping the city under surveillance. Out of these, 1,274 are run by the local council. This level of monitoring has become crucial as the city’s crime rate has reached its highest point, with 97.7 incidents per 1,000 residents.
11- Cardiff
Cardiff has world-renowned castles, museums, arcades, and music festival venues. Cardiff Castle is a 2,000-year-old castle that millions of people visit every year which makes this place the most visited in the whole of Wales.
The other well-known attractions include Castell Coch, Museum of Cardiff, Wales Millennium Centre, Bute Park, City of Arcades, Llandaff Cathedral, Pierhead Building, and St David’s Cathedral.
With a rising population, Cardiff relies on a network of about 27,870 CCTV cameras to help maintain safety. Of these, 1,022 are managed by the city council, one of the highest proportions on this list. This extensive monitoring aims to address safety challenges in this rapidly growing city.
12- Leicester
Leicester is famous for its iconic serene views and the world-class universities where thousands of students are completing their studies in different courses. Due to having such positive attributes, Lisecter is in the list of the top 15 cities of the UK with the most CCTV cameras.
If you are visiting Leicester, you should explore the Cultural Quarter, Leicester Cathedral, King Richard III Visitor Centre, Victoria Park, Attenborough Arts Centre, National Space Centre, Bradgate Park, Leicester Museum and Art Gallery, The Golden Mile, and Kilworth House Theatre.
This bustling city contains 27,492 CCTV cameras out of which 468 are monitored by the city council. Despite having such a high number of CCTV cameras and active surveillance, Leicester has hit its 8-year high crime rate which is 127.8 crimes per 1000 population.
13- Coventry
Coventry is known as the birthplace of the British motor industry and is famous for its 2-Tone music. Coventry is also the birthplace of Godiva legend and known for the Medieval walled city.
If you are planning to visit Coventry, you should visit places like Coventry Transport Museum, the Coventry Music Museum, Coombe Abbey Park, Coventry Cathedral, Midland Air Museum, Herbert Art Gallery and Museum, St. Mary’s Guildhall, Lady Godiva Statue, and War Memorial Park.
To keep up with these changes, Coventry has about 26,563 CCTV cameras, including 273 operated by the local council. These cameras play a role in addressing the city’s crime challenges, with the current crime rate at 110.7 incidents per 1,000 population.
14- Wakefield
Wakefield is one of the major cities of the UK and is famous for its cultural attractions, historic buildings, and textile history. During the times of 1700s and 1800s, Wakefield was one of the major cities for wool production. When talking about the historic buildings, you can visit Wakefield Cathedral, Nostell Priory, and Sandal Castle.
In terms of cultural attractions, you can explore The Hepworth Wakefield and Theatre Royal Wakefield. There are many other attractions and sightseeing places you can visit including Pugneys Country Park, Pontefract Castle, and more.
To maintain safety, Wakefield has installed around 26,456 CCTV cameras, with 177 managed by the city council. This network helps address safety concerns, especially for the growing business community in the city.
15- Nottingham
Robin Hood is one of the favourite characters of every theatre lover and is associated with Nottingham as home of the Robin Hood. The Sherwood Forest in Nottingham is also associated with Robin Hood and is in many of its storeys.
Besides Robin Hood, there are many attractions you can visit including Nottingham Castle, The Caves of Nottingham, The Birthplace of DH Lawrence, The National Justice Museum, The Theatre Royal, Lace Market, and Wollaton Hall.
With an estimated 25,484 CCTV cameras citywide, including 262 managed by the council, Nottingham ranks as one of the UK’s most monitored cities. The surveillance is aimed at tackling a rising crime rate, currently at 125.3 incidents per 1,000 population.
