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

4.6 /5

Based on 294 experiences from female travelers

4.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4 /5

Based on 693 experiences from local women

United Kingdom is currently ranked #27 safest country for solo female travelers, with an overall safety rating of 4.6 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

4.7 /5

based on 294 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.6/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.5/5

Swansea, Solo travel

Stayed for three nights and four days. The city is nothing special but it's a good affordable base with a busy nightlife from Thursday on. The rest of the time there's not much to do. It's a good base to explore the coast and the Brecon Beacons, which i could not do as the weather became rainy and I was unprepared for wet mountains, so I stayed on the coast. Gower is very beautiful and very reachable with hourly buses. I liked this tiny corner of Wales, would love to come back and explore further.

Posted: July 20, 2025Experienced: June, 2025

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Edinburgh, Solo travel

Edinburgh in June is an amazing experience, its still not overcrouded but lots of activities, the wheather was great, the sunset is really late and sunrise is super early so you can travel and walk feeling safe if you dont like doing it at night. The people are super nice and friendly, public transport is clean and reliable. I felt super safe, all of the city is beautuful, not only the center. There are lots of fields, lochs and parks within the city and right outside. Many trees among the streets so the city is green and you can get everywhere by foot. Good coffee and tasty food.

Posted: July 17, 2025Experienced: May, 2025

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Julia

Poland

Edinburgh, Family travel

I never thought a trip can be THAT wonderful. The days in Edniburgh were the best days of my life. Not only the city is goregous and dark academia vibes, but also the people and the cafes are so good! If I could visit only one place in my entire life it would defintly be Edinburgh

Posted: July 14, 2025Experienced: August, 2024

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Shani

United States

London, Solo travel

I had been to London before and done a lot of the touristy things and was only going to be there for two days (just a quick stop before heading to Scotland) so I stopped a couple of places I’ve always wanted to see like Abbey Rd., Studios. London is a very safe city for a woman traveling alone, I took public transportation everywhere…the tube, the train, buses, it’s all very safe for solo women! I even got lucky with amazingly beautiful weather!!

Posted: July 13, 2025

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Robin

Netherlands

Edinburgh, Solo travel

Edinburgh was absolutely amazing. A great place for history buffs. I was there for 2 weeks which was a bit on the long side but let me to get to know the city and surrounding area very well. If you are there for a longer while I would definitely recommend taking trips to outside the city. Like holy island, craigmillar castle, alnwick castle and lauriston castle. All easily accessible through bus or organized trips. The botanical gardens are also beautiful on a sunny day. There are also cute antique bookshops and cafes like book ‘n cup. I made sure to stay inside while it was dark but it felt like a very safe city.

Posted: July 11, 2025

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Julia

Poland

Bath, Solo travel

Not much to do, but defintly worth seeing. I went there for one day and the city was AMAZING!!! Especially the Jane Austen museum, which is one of the best museums I've ever seen. I also love the atmosphere there💕💕. I felt very safe and I recommend going there for a day trip.

Posted: July 11, 2025Experienced: April, 2025

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Is United Kingdom safe for women?

Safety index

4 /5

Based on 693 local experiences

Crime index

2.4 /5

Based on 693 local experiences

Andover

Andover is a small town that is visually a beautiful place. However, the people who live here aren’t always the best. There is a fair amount of crime and it can feel unsafe to walk around after dark.

Posted: July 21, 2025

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Cambridge

Cambridge is fairly safe when it comes to violent or targeted sex crimes but please do be careful when it comes to theft, especially when staying in unfamiliar places or walking through busy tourist areas.

Posted: July 19, 2025

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