Is United Kingdom Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

The United Kingdom generally offers a high level of safety for solo female travelers. There's a strong police presence, especially in urban areas and public transportation, which contributes to a sense of safety. However, as with any country, it's necessary to employ common sense precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas late at night and keeping your belongings secure. Street-related crimes such as pickpocketing or theft can occur in crowded places. The UK is a welcoming destination, but always remember to stay vigilant and informed about your surroundings.

Safety rating

4.7 /5

Based on 235 experiences from female travelers

4.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4 /5

Based on 535 experiences from local women

United Kingdom is currently ranked #17 safest country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.7 out of 5. Check the full ranking.

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How safe is United Kingdom?

Safety at night:Safe

The United Kingdom generally boasts a high level of safety, especially in more populated areas or touristy places. The local authorities effectively maintain order and there are usually good lights and CCTV surveillance. However, as in any region, certain areas can be less safe especially at night, such as quiet backstreets or parks. It is always recommended to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly-lit or deserted areas, and use common sense. Public transport is a safe option for night travel.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in the United Kingdom is generally safe, with plenty of well-lit areas, security personnel present, and emergency procedures in place. Bus and train journeys are normally smooth and trouble-free, especially during the day. Nonetheless, during late hours in less crowded areas or on less used routes, one must stay vigilant. Additionally, CCTV surveillance is common, providing an extra layer of security. However, always remember, safety largely depends on personal awareness and behaviors.

Street harassment:Low

In comparison with other countries, the United Kingdom generally exhibits lower levels of street harassment. That said, it's important to note that experiences may vary significantly from person to person, and from one area to another. Some cities may present more challenges than others. The UK has strict laws against harassment, and reporting such incidents is encouraged. Overall, the public tends to be respectful towards women, but it's always crucial to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Petty crimes:Low

The United Kingdom generally has lower rates of petty crime compared to many other countries. Instances of pickpocketing, purse snatching, or similar offenses do occur, particularly in more tourist-frequented areas, but it is not prevalent throughout the country. Being aware of your belongings and maintaining personal security precautions will greatly minimise the risk of falling victim to such activities.

Is United Kingdom worth visiting?

Overall rating

4.8 /5

based on 235 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.7/5

Food

4.3/5

Budget-friendly

3.6/5

Maria

Brazil

London, Solo travel

I absolutely loved London! Although it was quite expensive and I felt more worried about my belongings, it was an amazing trip. I went for a conference, got to see all the main attractions and even saw Wicked!

Posted: February 21, 2025Experienced: February, 2025

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Alice

France

London, Solo travel

London is a great city to visit!! It feels pretty safe, the tube works well and walking around is really fun because the neibourhoods don’t look alike! The food is great in Chinatown if you like Asian food. I stayed at the smart Hyde park view hostel, it was great!

Posted: February 18, 2025

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Aysun

Turkey

United Kingdom, Solo travel

It was incredible experience for me to travel UK for 2 whole months. I mostly stayed at London however I visited Bristol, Bath, Edinburgh, Cardiff as well. I felt so safe even in London. London was expensive but I found the good foods with reasonable prices. The best thing about UK is almost all museums are free! I stayed at Airbnb. Let me know if you need any help about traveling UK! :)

Posted: February 7, 2025

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Kaylie

France

London, Solo travel

I went to London last May to meet one of my favourite singer and the overall trip was just a dream come true !! I got to see all my favourite places but also eat a proper English breakfast and go to Nando’s (one of my favourite restaurants haha) with a friend and it was so fun ! I stayed in an hostel and it was quite nice even if not the most comfortable. I definitely recommend doing little trips like this one !!!

Posted: February 4, 2025

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London, Group travel

The activities in London are plently and a lot are free or not very expensive. The architecture is pretty for some part of London. The food is expensive and the sellers in Camden Market are very intrusive. They make you taste a simple of their product and then they are trying to make you pay a whole plate of food even if you say that you do not want to buy from them.

Posted: January 31, 2025Experienced: January, 2025

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Giulia

Italy

Edinburgh, Group travel

I felt safe. Then, well, I was with some of my friends, so they also helped with this feeling of security. We had a good time. I was moved by the windows of the houses. The only problem was finding a place to eat good food at a reasonable price.

Posted: January 5, 2025

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Monika

Czech Republic

London, Group travel

We took a 3-day trip with my friend. We stayed in the house on 3rd picture, it's named Iolanthe B&B with great host Rosie. We explored mostly the center of the city, near Tower and Buckingham Palace, but ventured out to Hampstead and Greenwich. We mainly used buses as a cheaper option for transport and we could see some part of the city from them. As for food, definitely try some od the famous markets like Seven dials Market in Soho or Borough Market near London brigde. If you want detailed itinerary of our trip, feel free to reach out 😊

Posted: January 4, 2025Experienced: August, 2023

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London, Family travel

The city felt really safe around the center (exept for the pickpockets), but the suburbs where more creepy and dirty. The city is really expensive, and a lot of things I'd have liked to visit where like 25£/per person. But the British Museum is free! For transport, having an Oyster card was nice, but contacless credit card is find also. The bus is less expensive than the subway, but still pretty expensive (≈ 7£/day/person)

Posted: December 31, 2024Experienced: November, 2024

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London, Group travel

I love the city especially during Christmas time. Decorations are amazing as well as the atmosphere. Everyone is very nice and helpful. I really enjoyed my weekend in the UK. My favourite place to be in.

Posted: December 31, 2024

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Gerrards Cross, Group travel

I loved Gerrard’s Cross so much. It gives peaceful cottage vibes. I felt very safe, there were many foreign people besides me (not only tourists but also employees in shops/cafes/restaurants etc). Everyone was friendly and ready to help. I stayed in a hostel for 2 nights or so, and the owner offered me a ride to the airport🥹. Definitely recommend <33

Posted: December 27, 2024Experienced: May, 2022

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Is United Kingdom safe for women?

Safety index

4 /5

Based on 535 local experiences

Crime index

2.3 /5

Based on 535 local experiences

London

Depends on the area. Some nights out at certain venues can attract bad crowds so are good to be with someone. I like the nightlife here so I've been out a lot, and on my own in the night. You can get stares/intimidation/mild harassment on the tube fairly often from men at those hours but never been assaulted while travelling and it feels safe and comfortable to travel from early morning to late evening. Many areas feel quite safe though.

Posted: February 21, 2025

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Maria

Cardiff

Cardiff is a very safe city. It is fun but also has its quiet spot. It is well located and has accessible transport to other cities. Its airport isn't much relevant, but you can always use Bristol's.

Posted: February 21, 2025

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Meet locals in United Kingdom

Natty

About Me

Hey, I am Natalie, I speak 3 languages and in my spare time I travell and volunteer, read books and learn to create short videos about nature, cooking etc. I have a dog and like learning new things from others.

Speaking

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Franczest

About Me

I’m a mum to a teenage girl and a Nurse by profession who loves to hike in the mountains, and find amazing waterfalls (although I cannot map read as i rely on hiking apps!) as a way to recharge my batteries. I also do love gardening and i have a small allotment where i grow some vegetables and sunflowers. I have two crazy dogs - a working cocker and a cockapoo that comes with me for walks or hikes in the mountains.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in United Kingdom

Nyasha

Bangor

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi there my name is Nyasha. I am a student in Bangor studying marine biology and oceanography. I love the outdoors and anything that gets the adrenaline pumping. I am always up to try new things, meet new people and experince new cultures. I love solo travelling and seeing the world through the people I meet along the way!

Speaking

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Savannah

London

Can host for:

7 days

About me

Hello! My name is Savannah Rose, I’m a 19 year old law student in London, England (although originally from Toronto, Canada) and I love love love to travel! I want to see the whole world, I’m super into history, nature, hiking, learning about different cultures, listening to different kinds of music and I really enjoy reading. As a law student I’m sure you can assume I really enjoy debating, politics and philosophy as well.

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to United Kingdom

Emma

About Me

I love meeting new people and getting a bit lost in those new places.

Speaking

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Soleya

About Me

Heyy I'm Soleya and I'm from Paris. ⚘️💫 I love doing fun activities, walking around the city or in nature. My goal this year is to do my first solo travel. I'm planning to go to Scotland in August! If you want to chat about France, Scotland, or anything else... do not hesitate :))