Is Manchester safe for solo female travelers?

Manchester is generally safe for solo female travelers. The city is known for its friendly locals and has a well-developed public transportation system. Common sense precautions still need to be taken such as avoiding some areas at night, and not flaunting valuable items, but overall the city is considered safe for solo female travelers. The risk of serious crime is relatively low, but, like in any big city, petty theft can occur.

Safety rating

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How safe is Manchester for female travelers?

Travel safety index

3.5 /5

based on 5 experiences from female travelers

Britters

Britters

Australia

Solo travel

Spent 3 nights in Manchester solo, all you need is 1 full day unless there is something specific you want to do. I didn't find it as exciting or friendly as London or Bristol which I loved and would go back to again. It is possible there is something I missed though! Safety wise it was very average. I had some concerns because I googled just before I got there (I am inherently a very nervous person) and it seems regarded as a pretty dodgy place. It was honestly fine but I didn't stay out very late at night. There was a lady who came up to me and gave me a story about being on her way to an abortion and needed money for transportation. Next thing I knew I was getting £20 out of the atm and she literally took the note so fast and was off on her way. I felt kinda dumb. My advice is don't engage at all.

Posted: March 4, 2025Experienced: July, 2023
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Couple travel

It was a big city, it was a bit loud but pretty. Much to see. I felt somewhat safe, saw people smoking weed in the streets. The food could have been better, much junk food chains. It was a bit cheap.

Posted: October 2, 2024
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Solo travel

Manchester is an absolutely gorgeous city. I can highly recommend going to museums as they offer a variety of interesting things. Apart from that I never felt so safe in terms of being Queer, I think the existence of the “gay village” existing says it all. Neurodivergency was also not a problem, when I was overwhelmed in the museum of Manchester, the staff kindly showed me to the dedicated quiet space. You need to come here if you love diversity, whether it’s in people, architecture or activities. Just awesome!

Posted: July 26, 2024
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Katie

Katie

United Kingdom

Group travel

Stayed in Manchester with a few mates for a New Year’s black tie event was absolutely amazing, but it’s quite expensive to stay in Manchester, but would strongly recommend as it was a great experience 

Posted: January 15, 2024Experienced: December, 2023
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Solo travel

Manchester during the holidays was a lot of fun! Great and safe public transport options that got me from the airport to the city center quickly. Great museums and Christmas markets. As with any big city, you have to be aware of your surroundings, but I didn’t feel like I had to worry about safety while I was there. The Christmas markets had a lot of great food that wasn’t too expensive. Tons of fun!

Posted: December 22, 2023
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How safe is Manchester for women?

Local safety index

3.7 /5

Based on 33 local experiences

Local crime index

2.1 /5

Based on 33 local experiences

It's safe during the day. But it is still a big city so at night you have to be aware of your surroundings and not walk alone at night unless its a busy space. As long as your careful you will be fine

Posted: July 14, 2025
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Irem

Irem

I believe Manchester is a relatively safe city, especially when compared to other major urban areas around the world. Like any large city, it has its share of crime, but for the most part, it offers a secure environment for residents, students, and tourists. The city has a strong police presence, especially in busy areas such as the city centre, Northern Quarter, and around universities.

Posted: May 13, 2025
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Eva

Eva

Manchester is very busy so it feels like there is safety in numbers. Streets are well lit. And there's lots going on in the centre of the city. I feel much safer here than in comparable cities like London or Birmingham.

Posted: May 1, 2025
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Same with most places. Don't go out walking in the dark alone. If you drink and are solo, don't get really drunk. I stick to south Manchester and city centre some greater Manchester towns are pretty rough.

Posted: April 25, 2025
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Tania

Tania

It is a safe city in general, please avoid walking at night in places with few people or that you don't know, and as in all big cities you have to be careful with pickpockets. People are generally friendly and happy to help travelers.

Posted: April 20, 2025
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Safety in United Kingdom