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 270 experiences from female travelers

4.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4 /5

Based on 621 experiences from local women

United Kingdom is currently ranked #25 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

4.8 /5

based on 270 experiences from female travelers

Things to do

4.6/5

Safety

4.6/5

Food

4.2/5

Budget-friendly

3.5/5

Layla

Switzerland

London, Solo travel

I honestly did not expect to feel as safe as I did in London. I left for a concert (Keane) and had to take the undergrounds and head to the hostel at around midnight and at no moment did I feel threatened. I also regularly go to London alone as it's my favorite place to spend a nice weekend.

Posted: May 6, 2025Experienced: April, 2024

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CARMEN

United Kingdom

Edinburgh, Group travel

I highly suggest going to Captain's pub, near the city centre and has live music, going there that night was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life, we went with a big group and felt welcomed, people in Scotland are so nice

Posted: May 4, 2025Experienced: March, 2025

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London, Solo travel

I loved my time in London. The people were soooo sweet. I used the underground to get to the National History Museum and I loved every bit of the experience. Loved the night view of the Thames River and the Tower Bridge. I tried a few restaurants around Tower Bridge and they were all very nice, considering I'm a vegetarian. I tried one of the tastiest pastas of my life at Ivy restaurant. The 14 Hills restaurant was a very rich experience as well.

Posted: May 4, 2025Experienced: January, 2025

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Erica

Belgium

London, Group travel

I stayed at the trebovir hotel. Really good price for the area, safe, clean but cheap breackfast. I met my Japanese friend who is in England to study English. We visited Notting Hill, Victoria and Albert Museum, Bourough Market, Camden town, ... we had such luck with the weather! All sunny with around 20 25 degree.

Posted: May 4, 2025Experienced: March, 2025

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Sarah

Germany

Skye, Family travel

I did a lovely 4 day tour around the highlands and 1 day was solely dedicated to the breathtaking Isle of Skye! Was there with my aunt and uncle and felt very safe:) We went on the more expensive side, having booked a private tour. However, there are plenty of tour groups (Rabbie’s is a great Edinburgh based company that specialises in those) and you can decide how long you would like to explore the isle. People usually have Portree as the base for hiking and exploration, but there is one (maybe two) hostels in town and I’m sure accommodation can run out fairly quickly considering how famous Skye is

Posted: May 4, 2025

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Estefania

Germany

Edinburgh, Solo travel

Loveee Edinburgh, been twice so far, people are super friendly, everything is reachable by public transport and the entire city is very walkable. There's lots of attractions and sights outside and museums are free !! So you don't need the break the bank at all to have fun and explore.

Posted: May 2, 2025

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Liverpool, Family travel

Felt safe during the day but not at night lot of homeless and intoxicated men. Lots of affordable accommodation options all within a short walk of the main shopping area and restaurants. Very easy to get around on foot with fantastic bus and rail services

Posted: May 1, 2025

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London, Solo travel

I felt moderately safe in London. I think I would have felt much safer if I had booked a hotel in the city center. I know that that's more expensive, but it's really worth it! I had to travel ~45 mins to reach the city center and had to walk ~10mins to the station which I didn't enjoy at night. Be smarter than I am :D

Posted: April 29, 2025

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Cardiff, Solo travel

Took a walk around Cardiff Centre and Cardiff Bay. Be it parks, museums, souvenir shops, or interesting little shops, Cardiff Centre has a lot to offer. If you’re around Cardiff Market, I recommend trying the panzarroti from Franco’s Street Food!

Posted: April 29, 2025

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Wiktoria

United Kingdom

London, Solo travel

I’ve been on and off in London, now live here so I can give an honest opinion lol. The city is moderately safe, but don’t stay out at night and be aware of thieves at all times. Stay away from Croydon and Peckham. I recommend going to Soho, Regent’s Park, Oxford Circus and Camden Town!! Be weary of your belongings.

Posted: April 27, 2025

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Is United Kingdom safe for women?

Safety index

4 /5

Based on 621 local experiences

Crime index

2.4 /5

Based on 621 local experiences

Birmingham

For the most part, if you do the regular things we do in any larger city, you’ll be fine. It’s not as bad as Paris or Rome or any of the incredibly large cities though. Just be aware of people walking around you, keep your eyes open and don’t walk down alleys alone and you will be fine.

Posted: May 6, 2025

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Bristol

Bristol is a safe city for most parts. I never really faced any incidents of physical or verbal harassment or threat from anyone irrespective of the mode of transport, time or place. But it's always advisable to be careful when you are traveling in the dark alleys after dark.

Posted: May 5, 2025

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Meet locals in United Kingdom

Céline

About Me

Originally from the west coast of Canada been living in Scotland for the past 9 years. Chill, adventurous and authentic. Have done couchsurfing ,workaways and pet/house sitting in the past. Love meeting new people and experiencing their world. Down for chill drinks, art shows, local markets, vegetarian food, live music, queer events, cultural events, outdoor swimming, bike rides. Whatever random fun thing is happening. Trying to do a small trip every month this year; January -Budapest February -Dublin March- Fife Scotland April- Manchester May- Pisa & Cinq Terre June- Derry and Belfast

Speaking

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Nyah

About Me

Hiiii, I’m Nyah. I am a bookworm and love to travel. I am 18 and a first year law student at university. I love to write and do sports. I love going on walks with my headphones - especially to aesthetic places. Like mountains and forest areas. I have a canon camera and love to photograph absolutely everything haha.

Speaking

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Stay with locals in United Kingdom

Céline

Johnstone

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Speaking

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Sarah

Edinburgh

Can host for:

2 days

About me

Hi! I'm Sarah, I'm 22 and from Philadelphia, but I have lived in Edinburgh for 4 years whilst I study art history at the uni here! I am moving back to the US in September, so I am planning lots of solo trips this summer to make the most of being in Europe! I am super chill and flexible in regards to planning trips, I love to hike and be outside but also visit museums and historical sites! I am very happy to show people around or host if needed if anyone is interested in visiting Edinburgh!🥰

Speaking

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Upcoming visitors to United Kingdom

veronika

About Me

hi! i m 21, half russian, half korean but currently living in switzerland >< i m a art director bachelor student while also a maths and physics tutor and a graphic design freelancer on the side x) hmu if you want to meet up in geneva or want some advice in travelling in switzerland! and i speak french, english, russian, tiny bit of korean and trying to improve my german 😭

Speaking

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Sara

About Me

Hi I am Sara, passionate for slow travel and getting to experience the world. I believe that the most important exchange is the one that happens between 2 human beings open to share and to listen to each other. I would be pleased to learn from you and contribute to your path as well 🤗 I studied business and have worked for different companies over the years, while dedicating time also to volunteering in education and environmental causes. Recently, I realized I no longer want to work just for profit — I want my work to have real meaning. I’m now hoping to find a paid role in a nonprofit organization. In the meantime, I’ll be living a new adventure as an au pair in Europe, making time to explore, learn new things, meet amazing people, and keep volunteering whenever I can. 🥰🌈