Is Bristol Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Bristol is generally considered safe for solo female travelers. The local people are friendly and welcoming, and streets are well-lit and busy, even at night. However, like any city, there are certain areas that are best to avoid, especially late at night. Use common sense regarding safety, such as staying in crowded places, avoiding unlit areas, and not displaying expensive items openly. The public transportation system is reliable, and taxis are also readily available. Overall, Bristol is a great destination for solo female travelers, but always remember to stay vigilant for personal safety.

Safety rating

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How safe is Bristol?

Safety at night:

Safety at night:Safe

Bristol is generally a safe city, even during the night. The downtown and tourist areas are well lit and populated till late. However, it's always prudent to stay aware, avoid unlit areas or parks and be cautious while using public transport late at night. As in any urban environment, incidents can occur, so it's always recommended to follow general safety precautions.
Public transportation:

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in Bristol is generally safe. The city has a well-developed network of buses, trains, and even ferries, most of which are regularly patrolled and have CCTV surveillance for passenger safety. It's predominantly safe to travel even at night although it's recommended to be cautious during late hours, especially on less busy routes. Also remember to keep a watchful eye on your belongings as pickpocketing can happen, though it's not common.
Street harassment:

Street harassment:Low

Bristol is generally considered safe for solo female travelers, with minimal reports of street harassment. As in any city, there can be isolated incidents, particularly late at night or in less-trafficked areas, but the overall level is relatively low. It’s a friendly city with a strong sense of community and is known for its warm and welcoming attitude towards visitors. Always be vigilant and follow common-sense safety precautions, but you should not expect any significant issues with street harassment.
Petty crimes:

Petty crimes:Low

In Bristol, petty crimes such as pickpocketing or bag theft are relatively low in frequency. The city is generally safe and people tend to be helpful to visitors. However, it’s always important to stay alert. Don't leave your belongings unattended and avoid secluded areas late at night.

Is Bristol worth visiting?

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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Gioia

Gioia

Italy

Group travel

I visited Bristol almost two years ago. I organized my trip through an agency and attended a school, traveling in a group with my friends. I felt almost always safe, even when walking alone. From the first day, I was always out and about, occasionally returning to my host mom's place. I explored everything, from churches to huge green parks, museums to shops. Being my first time in the UK, I couldn't resist entering any store. Bristol's main street is full of little shops, and I will never forget the four-story Primark, which wasn't in Italy at the time. Once you understand the bus directions, getting around is easy, and the people around are very helpful. Tip: if you get on a bus, sit down immediately; it's not like in Italy where you can stand. I got scolded a few times. Get familiar with the upper deck; it's a unique experience. Don't forget that the direction of travel is reversed, so be careful when crossing the street. Watch out for seagulls; they brought me keys, meaning they steal everything XD (not that it wasn't known). I highly recommend seeing the suspension bridge and exploring Bristol on foot. If you're energetic, wake up in the morning and join the English for a nice morning run or, better yet, join them in group sports activities. For an Italian, the food is a drama everywhere. I was unlucky to have a host mom with back pain who served me potatoes and meat throughout my stay. However, I often went out to eat with my friends. Don't miss out on Five Guys and Starbucks, but above all, try the famous Fish and Chips; you won't regret it. To save money, I went to Subway most of the time because I didn't have much time going to school. Absolutely play Mini Golf and enter the arcades; you'll have a blast. I stayed for 2 weeks (15 days) on a budget of €2000. But we have to consider that I was with an agency, in a group, and attending a private school. Museums and transportation were "free." My host mom warned me about places where it was better not to go alone, but they were only in distant suburbs. If I could, I would gladly go back.

Posted: January 7, 2024
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Is Bristol safe for women?

Safety index

3.4 /5

Based on 9 local experiences

Crime index

1.7 /5

Based on 9 local experiences

Like all cities there are areas I wouldn't walk alone after dark, but generally it's busy, well lit, and safe to walk alone - I see lots of other women walking alone in the main parts of town so that's a good sign

Posted: August 21, 2024
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Most of Bristol is very safe! As with any city, there are some areas that are a bit sketchier. Staying around Clifton and Redland is the safest and prettiest part. I've never been worried about walking home alone at night in those areas.

Posted: August 16, 2024
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Meet locals in Bristol

Eira

Eira

About Me

Hi! I’m Eira and am Australian but currently living in the UK for an internship (am studying environmental engineering). I’m excited to travel and meet people around the uk and Europe while I’m here as it’s crazy how countries are so close compared to back home! I love cooking for other people and reading/knitting

Speaking

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sofia

sofia

About Me

Hi! My name's Sofia, I've been in Bristol for about 3 years now. I've lived in Spain and the States as well. Love to travel, culture, food, drinks and dance :)

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Stay with locals in Bristol

Thea

Thea

Bristol

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Chinese girl working and living in the UK. I’m very open minded, keen to explore the world with biggest smile and curious heart!

Speaking

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Savannah

Savannah

Bristol

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hi! I'm a 21 year old Neuroscience student based from Oxford but now based in Bristol, UK.

Speaking

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Safety in United Kingdom