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 246 experiences from female travelers

4.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4 /5

Based on 578 experiences from local women

United Kingdom is currently ranked #22 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 246 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.7/5

Food

4.3/5

Budget-friendly

3.5/5

London, Solo travel

I felt safe but very lost lmao London is a very beautiful city but huge so felt very small. The food was great ( I only eat ethnic foods so ..) But so freaking expensive omggg like how do people live there

Posted: March 27, 2025

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Shana

France

London, Family travel

I had the opportunity to take a few trips, and I never had that feeling of security like I did in London! I also felt a sense of calm despite the crowded streets; it was pleasant and gentle to stroll through the city. Before my trip, I had prepared some free activities to do: visiting museums, walking in parks, visiting monuments, watching the Changing of the Guard.

Posted: March 17, 2025

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Lucy

United Kingdom

Falmouth, Solo travel

Falmouth is an amazing place, I am a Falmouth student and hikes, swimming and cycling here is the best. Everyone is friendly to you and especially in the summer when is gets busy. The beach's are the best I have ever seen especially on a sunny day, the water is blue and amazing to snorkel and dive. Hiking and cycling here has always been stress free for me here. Lovely places to eat and shops. I feel pretty safe here and have done a 4am hike alone in the dark on a public footpath. You do get the odd crazy man here which I do avoid, but I have only seen them in the high street or bus.

Posted: March 12, 2025Experienced: March, 2025

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Ioana

Germany

Edinburgh, Solo travel

I went as a visiting student to edinburgh. That's why I stayed with a boarding family, that was very nice. Eventhough I was out late, I never felt unsafe, even if I was alone. The public transportation is quite cheap in my opinion and you've got an excellent bus connection all around Edinburgh. Definitely can recommend to go to the Portobello beach and have a look at the museums around there. The castle is also amazing, although quite expensive. I really loved it there!

Posted: March 6, 2025

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Bethany

United Kingdom

Barmouth, Family travel

Went on a long weekend with family out of tourist season. It was very quiet - much more than expected! Didn't really come across many people nor when I was out on my own did I feel unsafe. The views were lovely - and the train station was handy to get us to some local sights! (If you go to Harlech Castle, do be aware that the road leading uphill to it is one of the steepest residential roads in the world!)

Posted: March 5, 2025

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Britters

Australia

Manchester, 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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London, Couple travel

I had an amazing experience travelling to London. I met my long distance friend for the first time and made great memories. London is a very pretty city in my opinion and you’ll always find something cool to do even if you just go out spontaneously. I really enjoyed Soho and China town we met cool people there: ) generally felt safe

Posted: February 28, 2025

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London, Group travel

So, I went a lot of time in London with group. It was for my job and it was great, I love this town, I feel safe even in the areas with lot of people ! It's expensive but it's so cool ! I think I do all the touristic attractions and you can do it one, just for tell you already does 😅 For the meal, I will recommand you, wagamama, it's asian and it's a chain but a good one ! And I tried Franco manca, a chain too but it was very good to ! You can try it eyes bliended, if you love italian and mostly the pizzas !

Posted: February 28, 2025

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London, Group travel

I stayed in London for about 3 days. Let me tell you, that was too short. Not only did I feel really safe in London, the sheer amount of things to do really call for you to stay as long as possible.I’d say while London is on the more expensive side it is very possible to travel there on a budget, a lot of the activities are free and the food you can get in supermarkets is pretty nice. Over all an amazing experience

Posted: February 26, 2025

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Betül

Belgium

London, Group travel

I felt generally safe in London. We didn’t have any uneasy encounters with anyone. Except for the museum who didn’t let us in because of my ‘free palestine’ bag. We mostly visited the landmarks. We are big foodies so for us the food was the moment! You can try a lot of amazing things in London. We took the flixbus there and found an affordable stay with a good location. London itsself is very pricey. So even if you find a cheap ticket/ride and stay, you will be spending a lot of money there regardless. Our hotel was nice, very small but clean and close to the metro station! We stayed at the Westbury Hotel in Kensington.

Posted: February 24, 2025

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Is United Kingdom safe for women?

Safety index

4 /5

Based on 578 local experiences

Crime index

2.4 /5

Based on 578 local experiences

Nina

London

Be careful and watch your stuff in touristic areas. People being loud and staring at you on public transport is unfortunately quite normal. It’s not a crime to change your seat inside of the bus or on the metro, if somebody sitting near you is making you uncomfortable. But all in all most of the people in London mind their own business.

Posted: April 1, 2025

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Birmingham

Birmingham depends on the area of course - I'd stay out of the city centre and erdington side during the dark, the north is usually fine (Sutton and so), but it can get quite scary so i would just make sure you're aware at all times

Posted: March 29, 2025

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Meet locals in United Kingdom

María

About Me

I'm a Spanish woman working for a human rights charity in London. I have lived in this city half my life and love showing it to people. I have a part time business doing animal care and also practice massage therapy. I love nature, food, dancing and the arts. I'm sober and LGBTQI+ friendly