Is York Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

York is considered one of the safest cities in the United Kingdom for solo female travelers. The crime rates are relatively low as compared to the other parts of the country. Locals are friendly and helpful, and it is generally safe to navigate the city even at night. Public transportation is reliable and there are plenty of well-lit areas. However, like always, it is recommended to use common sense and take standard safety precautions such as not walking alone late at night in less crowded areas, keeping an eye on personal belongings, and keeping your accommodations address and emergency numbers at hand.

Safety rating

4.5 /5

Based on our research and crime data

4.3 /5

Based on 6 experiences from local women

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How safe is York?

Safety at night:Safe

York is generally safe and well-lit at night with regular police patrols and CCTV surveillance. However, like anywhere, it is advisable to stick to busier, well-traveled areas and avoid less well-lit or deserted places. Always be aware of your surroundings and use common sense when out after dark.

Public transportation:Safe

The public transportation in York, is generally safe and reliable. Buses and trains are the most popular modes of transport and they are well-maintained and frequently used by locals and tourists alike. Night buses also operate, however, it is always advisable to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially during late hours. Public transport staff are usually helpful and can assist with any concerns. Despite this, like any other city, occasional issues may arise but they are not the norm.

Street harassment:Very low

York, in the United Kingdom, generally has a reputation of being a safe and welcoming city. There are often many tourists around, and locals are used to the high foot traffic. While no place is completely free of street harassment, it is less prevalent in York. As with any location, however, it is always important to remain aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions particularly when traveling alone and at night.

Petty crimes:Low

York is generally considered a safe city with low levels of petty crime such as pickpocketing or bag snatching. It's a historical city frequented by tourists so authorities maintain a good level of security. However, as it's a popular tourist destination, taking precautionary measures such as keeping personal belongings close is always recommended. Basic vigilance and common sense typically suffice for a safe visit.

Is York worth visiting?

Lucrezia

Italy

Solo travel

I felt very safe walking around alone I enjoyed visiting the York ghost merchants and the cathedral I mostly walked and a few buses that run very little compared to London. For those who need to leave their luggage for a few hours I recommend Your bag Left Luggage (20 High Petergate, York YO1 7EH)

Posted: May 11, 2025Experienced: April, 2024

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Solo travel

I felt safe, as I stayed at the Radisson, which is near the city center. I went specifically to watch a play that starred Gary Oldman and decided to make a 2-night trip out of it. Food was decent. It's not the cheapest of places, but I think given what I experience it was good. I mostly walked as I stayed around the city centre. The York Minster was beautiful, I took the guided tour and learnt so much. Probably one of the most beautiful cathedral in the UK.

Posted: April 27, 2025Experienced: March, 2025

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Is York safe for women?

Safety index

4.3 /5

Based on 6 local experiences

Crime index

1 /5

Based on 6 local experiences

Kathrine

York is generally a very safe place. As anywhere there are moments but as an average I don’t fear for my safety. Town can get rowdy with party goers as it’s a destination for stag and hens and weekends away and when you add the abundance of bars and pubs into the mix it does get lively but that’s York.

Posted: May 2, 2025

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Sam

York is known locally as an ‘old person’ town. Very low crime rate, I regularly walked home early hours of the morning when I worked in a bar safely. No harassment unless off of drunken men on a Saturday night in a nightclub - all other hours of day, days of the week or locations fine

Posted: January 27, 2025

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Meet locals in York

Kathrine

About Me

Hi I’m Kathrine a York native and half American, I’ve been back nearly five years. Environmentalist and artist excited to travel more and meet people coming to the city.

Speaking

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Sam

About Me

A previous young single parent who is now enjoying solo travel in her 30s now my daughter is in her teens

Speaking

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Stay with locals in York

Kathrine

York

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hi I’m Kathrine a York native and half American, I’ve been back nearly five years. Environmentalist and artist excited to travel more and meet people coming to the city.