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

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How safe is United Kingdom?

Safety at night:

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:

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:

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:

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 230 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.7/5

Safety

4.7/5

Food

4.3/5

Budget-friendly

3.6/5
Giulia

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

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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Gabrielle

Gabrielle

France

London, Solo travel

I went to London for 4 days (Nov 1-4 2024). It was my first solo trip and it was amazing! I stayed 3 nights at the Walrus Bar and Hostel. I highly recommend this hostel as it is just 10 minutes from Big Ben, has a bus stop just in front to go to Piccadilly Circus, Chinatown, soho… and the tube close by. The hostel was only 30€ per night for a room of 6 beds for girls only, breakfast included. The staff was very welcoming and you can drop off your luggage so it’s very convenient. Everything was very easy to get to, you can pay with contactless card everywhere so no need to get an oyster card if you are only staying a few days. I recommend taking the bus if you can as it lets you sight see as you’re traveling. I felt very safe in London, even at night and alone! All in all it was an amazing experience as a first solo trip for me. London is fairly expensive, especially for food, but you can find hostels to make your stay cheaper and meet other travelers. I recommend visiting the center with Soho, Chinatown and Piccadilly Circus in the evening, it is very lively and there is usually street performances, singers… there are so many things to do. I also recommend going to see a musical, a play or an opera if you like this sort of thing. I went to see the Phantom of the Opera at His Majesty’s Theater, needless to say it was amazing. Also for the British Museum, entrance is free but you should book the day before as the queue can be very long if you do not have a ticket. St Jane’s park is very nice and you can see the changing of the guard but you will have to be very early and wait for a looooong time if you want a good spot, otherwise just visit the park and see the palace from afar, you won’t miss much.

Posted: December 24, 2024
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London, Solo travel

London is heaven for history/culture lovers! I did guided walks, museum trips, theatre visits and so much more. There is always something to do and there is always a new friend to make. I’m going back for my birthday this year and I couldn’t be happier :)

Posted: December 9, 2024
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Wisyah

Wisyah

Malaysia

Edinburgh, Solo travel

Edinburgh was quite safe as I can walk around without needing to feel insecure. There are ample of things to do and visit such as Edinburgh Castle, Arthur’s Seat, National Museum of Scotland and plenty more. The food choices are okay and you can literally find restaurants/markets within walking distance. Stayed at the CoDE Pod - The Court located in the middle of Old Town and it was an amazing experience with great hospitality and facilities. Staffs were friendly and helpful as well.

Posted: December 1, 2024
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Jessica

Jessica

United States

London, Solo travel

I felt very safe in London. The "Jack the Ripper" tour of his haunts and the short histories behind his victims was fascinating. The tour guide was over the top in acting through the stories which I ate up. The park I sun bathed in during the day was warm and I even saw a cosplayer enjoying their walk through the park and be asked for pictures. I was thrilled to tell them how much i loved their vibe and I even got a hug! Looking forward to my next trip through London.

Posted: November 20, 2024
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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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Is United Kingdom safe for women?

Safety index

4 /5

Based on 463 local experiences

Crime index

2.3 /5

Based on 463 local experiences

London

Some areas are worse than others, but in my experience there is more people with mental health problems in the streets which gives a lot more of anxiety to interact with strangers. In night clubs or things like that is kinda the same as any other nightclub you get harassed easily

Posted: January 15, 2025
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Louise

Louise

Manchester

I want to believe this is a safe city, obviously as a woman I don’t feel 100% safe anywhere I go. But if you have your wits about you and you are able to not let men ruin it, you will have a great time

Posted: January 13, 2025
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Meet locals in United Kingdom

Madi

Madi

About Me

Hey! I’m originally a New Yorker, and have been living abroad in the UK for 5 years now. I have no plans to return home and want to see as much of the world as possible. I currently work in Urban Design and Landscape Architecture as a PhD researcher. Because of this I love to see new places, especially nature and outdoor adventures. I’m always up for anything to do with permaculture, farm stays, delicious food and good times with new friends.

Speaking

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Franczest

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

Madi

Madi

Dundee

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hey! I’m originally a New Yorker, and have been living abroad in the UK for 5 years now. I have no plans to return home and want to see as much of the world as possible. I currently work in Urban Design and Landscape Architecture as a PhD researcher. Because of this I love to see new places, especially nature and outdoor adventures. I’m always up for anything to do with permaculture, farm stays, delicious food and good times with new friends.

Speaking

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Savannah

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

Juliana

Juliana

About Me

Hello! 🌼 My name is Juliana, and I’m from Slovakia 🇸🇰. I’m 19 years old and currently studying in high school. Like many in this community, I love traveling, discovering new places, and getting to know people, their cultures, customs, and ways of life. The privilege of traveling is something not everyone has, and I will forever be grateful to be one of the lucky ones who get to experience it. Every time I see a new corner of our Earth, I feel so gifted. My mind can't comprehend how so many beautiful places can coexist at the same time (and I’ve only seen a small glimpse of them so far.) I love encountering new cultures that challenge me to question and reconsider my existing values. It’s fascinating how I sometimes view things in black and white, only to learn that there are countless perspectives which have colours I never even imagined. At the same time, I value peace and personal growth. I strive to be intentional and mindful in my actions and relationships, though it’s still a work in progress. When something or someone doesn’t serve me well, I’m not afraid to let go. Practices like meditation, yoga, and connecting with nature help me stay sane and grounded . Also the sea and mountains heal me too :) Even though I’m a quiet and introverted soul, I truly enjoy meeting new people and learning their stories. Deep, meaningful conversations with interesting people bring me the most joy. 🌼

Speaking

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nele

nele

About Me

hey girl i’m nele, but you may also call me nels i’m studying architecture in 5th semester, focusing on historic buildings and monument preservation i love gothic and medieval european architecture and i am a huge fan of architecture and art history i’m a rather quiet person, not drinking alcohol, not smoking, not partying often spending most of my time reading, listening to podcast or going for early morning walks

Speaking

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Safety in United Kingdom