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 221 experiences from female travelers

4.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4 /5

Based on 351 experiences from local women

United Kingdom is currently ranked #16 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 221 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.7/5

Food

4.4/5

Budget-friendly

3.6/5

London, Solo travel

I really enjoyed my time in London, particularly my stay in Stoke Newington and London Fields. London Fields is a lively place with lots of bars, restaurants, pubs and the park itself is a great place to hang out on the weekend. Broadway Market on the weekend is full of activity and delicious market stalls. Jolene in Newington Green is my favourite cafe/restaurant - get there early to nab a sandwich before they sell out! The Tate and Barbican Centre are well worth the trip. And a walk along regents canal at sunset is beautiful. I feel safe in these areas but best to keep alert and aware e.g. I don’t wear my headphones if I’m waking at night. I usually get an Uber home if I’m alone and travelling far at night. The bus system is reliable and feels safe.

Posted: October 30, 2024Experienced: October, 2024

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Seaford, Couple travel

It was nice views and good weather. Relatively easy hike from seaford to eastbourne. Very safe even when it was dark and Eastbourne had a lot of events going on. There was fish and chips at the end of the travel

Posted: October 29, 2024Experienced: August, 2024

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Patricia

United Kingdom

Edinburgh, Solo travel

I love burgh and what I love the most is how safe the city is and feels, there is not much to do in terms of museums and activities in the city since a lot people come to Scotland for the highlands but I love that even more

Posted: October 28, 2024

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Manchester, 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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Edinburgh, Solo travel

Love Edinburgh! Felt so safe here and it’s so walkable. Fave city in Europe. Heaps to do. Can’t miss the royal mile. Bussing around is very easy too. Nice parks and cafes to sit in when you need a rest

Posted: September 21, 2024

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London, Family travel

London is a fantastic city. I stayed in a residential area so I felt very safe with my kids. There is loads of things to do. It's an expensive city, but worth every penny. The food isn't great, IMHO, but you can find good deals at the market especially.

Posted: September 19, 2024Experienced: August, 2023

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Bristol, Solo travel

Clifton village is LOVELY! I’m staying in saint Paul’s area which is a little sketchy but more “alternative” I wouldn’t recommend this area at night time But it’s really close to the bus station and to walk downtown. I felt safe but just be aware

Posted: September 15, 2024

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Carme

Spain

London, Solo travel

Overall I had a really good trip, specially important being one of my first solo trips. I stayed on an Airbnb that was exclusively for solo travelling women that made me feel really comfortable and secure, the neighbourhood (Southfields) was great as well. I found London to be an amazing city in terms of safetyness, it of course has some dangers being a big city as all of them but compared to Rome for example (where I lived for a year), London felt super safe, I received no cat calling and wasn’t afraid to walk around alone. Price-wisely it can be expensive, especially the food out, so I would recommend booking a place where you are able to cook so you can save some money. In contrast museums were totally free and I found a lot of activities to do that weren’t expensive. Aside from this some shopping was included on my trip that did up my budget a bit ;). Overall I feel like you can accommodate the trip to your budget. Public transportation was nice, allowed me to get everywhere comfortably, specially the tube which was fast and counts with a ton of stations. You can pay simply with your credit card which is nice as well. Some of the stuff I loved were the vintage and second hand shops, the markets and restaurants from other cultures. But overall my favourite thing was the lively vibe of the city, at least during summer, and the kindness of the people I encountered <3.

Posted: September 6, 2024

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Cara

United Kingdom

London, Solo travel

London is a beautiful place and if you're new to the city, than its even more exciting and fascinating. It's a great experience for tourists and a must see if you ever visit the UK. I'd recommend jumping on the Uber boat (which serves all different stops along the River Thames) and gives you the opportunity to cruise through London.. Mark my word, it is nore beautiful at night when everything is lit up!

Posted: September 5, 2024

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London, Group travel

It was excellent and safely to travel in London. I went to Harry Potter studios which I dreamed about it, and totally worth it. It was safe, you can walk everywhere, and use subway. I really enjoyed and wanna travel in London again

Posted: August 31, 2024

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Is United Kingdom safe for women?

Safety index

4 /5

Based on 351 local experiences

Crime index

2.2 /5

Based on 351 local experiences

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Very safe..easy to walk around after dark..still need to be street wise....just like anywhere else in world. People are nice and happy to help. Keep vigilant with drunk people and u will be fine.....

Posted: November 14, 2024

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London

I think as a woman you always have to be careful- even in “safe” areas. London is generally a safe metropolitan city in most areas. There are a few areas that you want to watch your back and purse and be careful after dark.

Posted: November 12, 2024

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Meet locals in United Kingdom

Savannah

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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Sol

About Me

Hi I'm Sol, I'm from Brighton :) I like swimming, art, illustration, eating, sewing, movies, reading and music. My particular interests are Lord Of The Rings, fantasy and horror movies.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in United Kingdom

Savannah

London

Can host for:

7 days

About me

Speaking

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Saira

Birmingham

Can host for:

3 days

About me

I am a Personal trainer and Yoga instructor I love anything health and fitness

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to United Kingdom

Lazare

About Me

Hey, my name is Lazare. I am an English student which means that I’d love to meet some girlies that speak English and have some good time. I feel like I am yet to see the full extent of girlhood and I’d be so happy if this app could help me in my discovery <3