The reality is that crime is an inescapable aspect of our society, no matter where we choose to reside or work. Antisocial behavior and vandalism on our neighborhood streets, shoplifting and theft from both large and small retailers – these are all too common occurrences that frequently dominate headlines on both a local and national scale.
Undoubtedly, while criminal activity is a persistent issue across the nation, certain areas of the United Kingdom are far more dangerous than others. As an industry-leading security firm, we are acutely aware of the importance of knowledge and understanding in confronting crime. With our latest comprehensive guide, we aim to equip you with precisely that.
We will delve into 25 of the most perilous areas in England and Wales, exploring the critical crime statistics that render these regions hazardous places to reside. Furthermore, we will examine the trends to accurately assess whether preventative measures are effective or whether more efforts are required to ensure that residents and visitors alike feel secure.
What Is Crime Like In England & Wales?
England and Wales boast a remarkably diverse landscape, spanning the bustling energy of some of the world’s major economic powerhouses to the idyllic rolling hills and valleys of the quintessential English and Welsh countryside, offering something for everyone.
Regrettably, despite this all-encompassing appeal, crime still manages to permeate every corner of these countries. With a staggering 5,494,256 criminal offenses recorded over the past 12 months alone, equating to an overall crime rate of 91.2 crimes per 1,000 people, England and Wales undoubtedly face an uphill battle against the criminal issues plaguing the nation.
Upon closer examination of these crime statistics, the situation appears even more concerning. Alarmingly high figures across violent crime (2,049,254 incidents), theft (1,789,462 incidents), and public order offenses (516,661 incidents) are merely the headliners in a grim lineup of criminal activities.
Furthermore, there is mounting concern surrounding key crimes that have witnessed a dramatic surge in incident counts. Shoplifting (430,104 incidents) experienced the largest year-over-year increase, soaring by a staggering 36%.
Similarly alarming rises have been observed in theft from the person (125,563 incidents, up by 18%), robbery (81,094, up by 13%), and weapon possession (58,989 incidents, up by 6%).
However, it is not all bleak news – overall crime across England and Wales fell by around 1% in the last year, although, as evidenced, there remain significant causes for concern. This is especially true for some of the most dangerous areas of England and Wales, which we will explore in greater detail.
The 25 Most Dangerous Areas Of England & Wales Revealed
We will unveil the most perilous areas of England and Wales, delving into the key statistics that render these regions undesirable places to reside or visit.
1:- Portsmouth
Overall Crime Rate: 122.8 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Regrettably, one of England’s most iconic harbourside cities, Portsmouth, is also among its most dangerous locales, with an estimated 122.8 crimes per 1,000 residents. This alarming statistic is exacerbated by the high rates of violent crime (10,475 incidents), theft (7,160 incidents), and public order offenses (2,725 incidents), which collectively contribute to an environment of heightened concern and unease.
Despite its picturesque setting and rich maritime heritage, Portsmouth’s status as a major urban center has given rise to a troubling crime landscape that demands urgent attention and effective countermeasures to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents and visitors alike.
2:- Southwark
Overall Crime Rate: 122.8 Crimes Per 1,000 People As the first of London’s most perilous boroughs to grace our list, Southwark hosts a multitude of the capital’s cultural icons, from the iconic Shard to the renowned Globe Theatre. Despite these undeniable attractions, there is considerable concern surrounding the area’s alarmingly high overall crime rate of 122.8 crimes per 1,000 residents. This unsettling statistic is compounded by soaring numbers in theft (19,692 offenses), violent crime (9,136 offenses), and criminal damage (2,154 offenses), casting a shadow over Southwark’s cultural allure.
3:- Calderdale
Overall Crime Rate: 122.9 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Home to the vibrant town of Halifax and nestled at the heart of the lush Calder Valley, the appropriately named Calderdale conceals a dark secret beneath its verdant canopies – a rising crime rate of 122.9 crimes per 1,000 residents. Violent crime (11,509 incidents) accounts for a staggering 45% of all criminal activity in the area, closely followed by theft (6,172 incidents) and public order offenses (3,115 incidents). This troubling reality stands in stark contrast to Calderdale’s idyllic rural surroundings, highlighting the urgent need for effective measures to address the escalating crime rates plaguing this picturesque region.
4:- Hackney
Overall Crime Rate: 123.3 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Synonymous with the iconic black cabs and one of London’s heavily populated residential areas, the borough of Hackney grapples with a crime rate that mirrors its dense population, standing at an alarming 123.3 crimes per 1,000 residents. Delving deeper, we uncover startling figures across numerous common offenses, including theft (15,205 incidents), violent crime (8,702 incidents), and vehicle offenses (2,586 incidents), painting a grim picture of the challenges faced by this bustling borough.
5:- Newcastle-upon-Tyne
Overall Crime Rate: 123.7 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Often regarded as a cultural capital of the North East, Newcastle’s glittering nightlife and innumerable artistic contributions are overshadowed by its escalating crime rate of 123.7 crimes per 1,000 residents. This troubling statistic is predominantly driven by high rates of violent crime (13,217 offenses) and theft (13,005 offenses), with additional concerns surrounding the rising numbers of drug crimes (1,193 offenses), casting a pall over this vibrant city’s allure.
6:- Nottingham
Overall Crime Rate: 124.6 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Infamous for its place in the Robin Hood mythos and as one of the UK’s rapidly growing cities, Nottingham’s equally expanding crime rate of 124.6 crimes per 1,000 residents is perhaps a reflection of its increasing popularity. High rates of theft (14,008 offenses), violent crime (13,401 offenses), and criminal damage (3,843 offenses) rank among the top concerns for residents, casting a shadow over this historic city’s allure and progress.
7:- Hammersmith & Fulham
Overall Crime Rate: 124.8 Crimes Per 1,000 People
An epicenter for London’s sporting and academic excellence, it is undoubtedly disheartening to witness Hammersmith & Fulham rank so highly among England and Wales’ most dangerous areas. However, with an alarming overall crime rate of 124.8 crimes per 1,000 residents and soaring numbers across theft (11,551 incidents), violent crime (5,909 incidents), and vehicle offenses (3,187 incidents), its position on this list is more than warranted, casting a shadow over this esteemed borough’s numerous accolades.
8:- Leicester
Overall Crime Rate: 125 Crimes Per 1,000 People
From its Premier League-winning football team to its reputation as one of the East Midlands’ most coveted areas to live and work, Leicester boasts numerous draws. However, its overall crime rate of 125 crimes per 1,000 residents offers a sobering counterpoint, with rising rates of violent crime (17,920 incidents), theft (12,416 incidents), and public order offenses (5,992 incidents) all contributing to this troubling statistic. This stark reality stands in stark contrast to Leicester’s many attractions, highlighting the need for concerted efforts to address the escalating crime rates plaguing this renowned city.
9:- Birmingham
Overall Crime Rate: 128.9 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Officially the UK’s second-largest city and a bastion of culture, arts, and industry in the West Midlands, Birmingham’s criminal reputation casts a notable shadow over its multi-faceted appeal. The city’s overall crime rate stands at an alarming 128.9 crimes per 1,000 residents, with astronomical numbers in violent crime (61,201 offenses), theft (46,871 offenses), and vehicle offenses (14,683 offenses), painting a grim picture of the challenges faced by this vibrant metropolis.
10:- Wakefield
Overall Crime Rate: 130.3 Crimes Per 1,000 People
One of Yorkshire’s most recognizable cathedral cities and harboring a proud rugby heritage, Wakefield’s crime rate of 130.3 crimes per 1,000 residents undercuts its acclaim slightly. Delving deeper, we uncover concerning numbers in violent crimes (19,827 incidents), theft (12,711 incidents), and public order offenses (5,360 incidents). These troubling statistics cast a pall over Wakefield’s rich history and cultural significance, highlighting the urgent need for effective measures to address the escalating crime rates plaguing this esteemed town.
11:- Islington
Overall Crime Rate: 131.5 Crimes Per 1,000 People
One of North London’s most iconic boroughs is also one of its most perilous, with a staggering crime rate of 131.5 crimes per 1,000 residents. Theft (14,294 offenses) emerges as the most prevalent issue for Islington locals, accounting for a staggering 49% of all criminal activity in the area, coupled with alarmingly high figures in both violent crime (7,148 offenses) and vehicle crimes (2,288 offenses). This grim reality stands in stark contrast to Islington’s celebrated cultural significance, casting a shadow over this vibrant borough’s allure.
12:- Lincoln
Overall Crime Rate: 131.6 Crimes Per 1,000 People
The namesake of its county and one of England’s most historically significant and influential cities, Lincoln’s reputation has shifted in recent years to one of a less desirable nature, with crimes standing at an alarming 131.6 crimes per 1,000 residents. Under scrutiny, we uncover significant concerns surrounding the figures in violent crime (4,944 incidents), theft (4,371 incidents), and criminal damage (1,347 incidents). These troubling statistics tarnish Lincoln’s rich heritage and demand concerted efforts to address the escalating crime rates plaguing this esteemed city.
13:- Bradford
Overall Crime Rate: 132.4 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Despite Bradford’s storied history in sports and culture, and plans to revitalize the city’s struggling industrial and commercial sectors offering a glimpse of potential revival, its soaring crime rate of 132.4 crimes per 1,000 residents tells a contrasting tale. Violent crimes (32,762 incidents), theft (17,291 incidents), and public order offenses (8,323 incidents) regularly make headlines, overshadowing Bradford’s rich heritage and ambitious revitalization efforts.
14:- Southampton
Overall Crime Rate: 133.3 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Renowned as one of this island nation’s most recognized port cities and often considered the gateway to England, Southampton’s popularity is overshadowed by its alarming crime rate of 133.3 crimes per 1,000 residents. Mounting concerns arise from the rising figures in violent crime (13,203 offenses) and theft (10,034 offenses), exacerbated by a burglary rate (2,407 offenses) that is a staggering 77% higher than neighboring Portsmouth. These troubling statistics cast a pall over Southampton’s esteemed maritime legacy and underscore the urgent need to safeguard the city’s residents and visitors.
15:- Leeds
Overall Crime Rate: 133.3 Crimes Per 1,000 People
As one of Yorkshire’s largest cities with a thriving arts and culture scene, Leeds’ popularity may be a contributing factor to its soaring crime rate, which stands at a dizzying 133.3 crimes per 1,000 residents. The latest statistics reveal concerning numbers across many of the main issues facing the UK, including violent crime (42,516 incidents), theft (34,466 incidents), and public order offenses (12,102 incidents). These alarming figures cast a shadow over Leeds’ vibrant cultural landscape and demand urgent action to safeguard the city’s residents and visitors.
16:- Doncaster
Overall Crime Rate: 134.1 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Perched at the cusp of the top 10 most dangerous areas in England and Wales lies Doncaster. This industrial powerhouse and densely populated area of South Yorkshire witnessed a staggering 134.1 crimes per 1,000 residents over the last year, with substantial and concerning figures in violent crime (14,822 offenses), theft (13,849 incidents), and criminal damage (4,455 offenses). These troubling statistics underscore the urgent need for effective measures to address the escalating crime rates plaguing this historic region and ensure the safety of its residents.
17:- Hull
Overall Crime Rate: 136.7 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Once a celebrated city of culture, Hull has experienced a stark fall from grace, culminating in a crime rate that places it among the worst in Yorkshire – a staggering 136.7 crimes per 1,000 residents. The climbing figures across violent crime (14,605 incidents), theft (10,367 incidents), and public order offenses (4,582 incidents) underscore the changing tides in Kingston-Upon-Hull, overshadowing its former cultural acclaim.
18:- Liverpool
Overall Crime Rate: 136.7 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Integral to the UK’s musical, artistic, and cultural contributions, Liverpool also makes an unwelcome appearance among England and Wales’ areas with the highest overall crime rates, with an estimated 136.7 crimes per 1,000 residents. Multiple factors contribute to this alarming statistic, but violent crime (25,273 offenses), theft (17,532 offenses), and drug crimes (5,865 offenses) are among the three most prevalent. These troubling realities cast a pall over Liverpool’s celebrated legacy and underscore the urgent need for effective measures to safeguard its residents and visitors.
19:- Hartlepool
Overall Crime Rate: 149.2 Crimes Per 1,000 People
As one of two areas in the North East to make the top 10 most dangerous areas in England and Wales, Hartlepool – despite its proud maritime heritage – grapples with a crime rate of 149.2 crimes per 1,000 residents, foreshadowing stormy seas ahead. Delving deeper, there is much cause for concern, with violent crimes (5,629 incidents), theft (4,323 incidents), and criminal damage (1,716 incidents) all witnessing a concerning upward trend, casting a shadow over this historic town’s allure.
20:- Blackpool
Overall Crime Rate: 157.3 Crimes Per 1,000 People
A premier coastal destination in the North and a cherished part of many seaside memories for people across the UK, Blackpool’s chintzy exterior belies a disturbing crime rate of 157.3 crimes per 1,000 residents. The major issues stem from soaring numbers in violent crime (9,703 offenses), theft (6,309 offenses), and criminal damage (2,283 offenses), tarnishing this iconic resort town’s appeal and demanding urgent action to restore a sense of safety for residents and visitors alike.
21:- Kensington & Chelsea
Overall Crime Rate: 160.4 Crimes Per 1,000 People
A shocking inclusion so high on this list, the affluent district of Kensington and Chelsea in the capital grapples with a startling crime rate of 160.4 crimes per 1,000 residents. Perhaps unsurprisingly, theft (14,032 incidents) accounts for over 57% of all crime in the borough, with equally concerning numbers cropping up in violent crime (4,624 incidents) and vehicle offenses (2,902 incidents). This disquieting reality stands in stark contrast to Kensington and Chelsea’s opulent reputation, demanding immediate attention and effective measures to restore a sense of safety in this esteemed locale.
22:- Middlesbrough
Overall Crime Rate: 170.1 Crimes Per 1,000 People
One of the North East’s and indeed the country’s most industrious towns is also one of its most perilous, with Middlesbrough witnessing an estimated 170.1 crimes per 1,000 residents. Major issues abound, but violent crimes (9,675 offenses), theft (6,608 offenses), and criminal damage (3,173 offenses) emerge as the chief headline-makers in this troubled town. These alarming figures cast a pall over Middlesbrough’s industrial prowess and underscore the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the escalating crime rates plaguing this historic region.
23:- Manchester
Overall Crime Rate: 172.6 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Often fondly regarded as the “Capital of the North,” Manchester seeks to emulate London in its metropolitan attitude. However, it has also mirrored the capital in its alarming crime rate of 172.6 crimes per 1,000 residents. Violent crimes (33,253 incidents) and theft (32,266 incidents) are the two most prevalent issues, but there are mounting worries surrounding the numbers across public order offenses (11,612 incidents) and criminal damage (7,605 incidents) as well. These troubling statistics cast a pall over Manchester’s vibrant identity and demand urgent action to restore a sense of safety in this northern powerhouse.
24:- Camden
Overall Crime Rate: 184.2 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Most closely associated with its world-renowned market, Camden has earned an unfortunate secondary reputation as England and Wales’ second-most dangerous area. With its soaring crime rate of 184.2 crimes per 1,000 residents, and considerable numbers in theft (23,971 offenses), violent crimes (7,702 offenses), and vehicle crimes (3,210 offenses), it is perhaps unsurprising that the borough ranks so highly on this list. This grim reality stands in stark contrast to Camden’s cultural allure, highlighting the pressing need for effective measures to safeguard residents and visitors alike.
25:- Westminster
Overall Crime Rate: 440 Crimes Per 1,000 People
Shockingly, the most dangerous area in England and Wales is the very hub for all matters of law and governance. Home to the Houses of Parliament, Westminster’s overwhelming tourist popularity brings with it a tidal wave of criminality, leading to its staggering overall crime rate of 440 crimes per 1,000 residents.
Delving deeper, Westminster’s main problems arise from an unmatched rate of theft (65,020 incidents), accounting for more than 69% of all crime in the borough. This is coupled with equally alarming numbers in violent crime (11,958 incidents), vehicle offenses (4,503 incidents), and public order offenses (4,024 incidents). These staggering figures cast a dark shadow over the heart of the nation’s capital, demanding immediate and comprehensive measures to restore a sense of safety and security in this iconic locale.
Key Trends In Crime Across England & Wales
While crime continues to be a significant concern across England and Wales, reflecting a long-standing challenge, there are glimmers of hope amidst the grim reality. The overall crime statistics reveal a modest but notable dip of 1%, with the total number of offenses decreasing from 5,527,664 to 5,494,256. This reduction, though modest in percentage terms, represents a step in the right direction and provides a glimmer of optimism in the ongoing efforts to combat criminal activities.
Delving deeper into the data, there are encouraging signs across various offense types, offering further reason for cautious optimism. One noteworthy area of improvement is the realm of public order offenses, where a substantial 13% decline was observed. The number of incidents in this category dropped from 592,323 to 516,611, reflecting a significant reduction in disturbances and disruptions to public order.
Another offense category that saw a positive trend is bicycle theft, which experienced a 12% decrease compared to the previous year’s figures. The number of incidents fell from 77,876 to 68,612, potentially indicating enhanced security measures or increased awareness among bicycle owners, leading to a reduction in this type of property crime.
While the decreases observed in certain offense categories, such as stalking and harassment (down 6% from 707,267 incidents to 663,526), criminal damage (down 5% from 534,481 incidents to 508,936), and violent crime (down 3% from 2,112,624 incidents to 2,049,254), are noteworthy and demonstrate progress, these positive changes are overshadowed by alarming upward trends in some of the most significant crime issues plaguing England and Wales.
One particularly concerning development is the substantial 36% surge in shoplifting incidents compared to the previous year’s statistics. This dramatic increase saw the number of shoplifting cases skyrocket from 315,040 to a staggering 430,104, representing a substantial burden on businesses and the broader economy, as well as raising questions about the underlying factors driving this escalation.
Adding to the worrisome picture are the equally troubling rises in other offenses that strike at the heart of personal safety and security. Theft from the person, a crime that directly violates an individual’s sense of security, experienced an 18% increase, with incidents climbing from the previous year’s figure to a alarming 125,563. Compounding this concern is the 13% rise in robbery cases, which now stand at 81,094 incidents, a deeply unsettling development that underscores the persistent threat to public safety and the need for robust law enforcement strategies.
Furthermore, the 8% increase in weapon possession offenses, now totaling 58,989 incidents, is a chilling reminder of the potential for escalating violence and the urgent need to address the root causes contributing to the proliferation of illegal weapons on the streets.
These stark statistics serve as a sobering wake-up call, highlighting the need for comprehensive and multifaceted approaches to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying societal issues that contribute to the rise in these concerning crime trends. While progress has been made in certain areas, the overall situation demands sustained efforts, innovative strategies, and a unwavering commitment to restoring a sense of safety and security for all citizens across England and Wales.
Weapon Offences Across England & Wales
Weapon-related crimes continue to be a grave concern for England and Wales, casting a dark shadow over public safety and security. Regrettably, the most recent twelve-month period has witnessed a disquieting upward trend in offenses involving weapons. As previously mentioned, the overarching category of weapon possession has experienced an 8% increase, a statistic that underscores the urgency of addressing this issue from multiple fronts.
Delving deeper into the specifics, the data reveals an even more alarming picture. Knife crimes, which have long been a scourge on communities, have seen a concerning 7% surge. The number of incidents involving knives has risen from 46,153 in 2022 to a staggering 49,489 in 2023. This escalation not only highlights the prevalence of these deadly weapons but also underscores the potential for further violence and loss of life if left unchecked.
Adding to the gravity of the situation is the 9% increase in gun-related crimes, which have seen a rise from 5,850 incidents in 2022 to 6,367 incidents in 2023. The presence of firearms in criminal activities poses an unacceptable risk to public safety, with the potential for tragic consequences that can shatter lives and communities.
These sobering statistics serve as a stark reminder of the pressing need for comprehensive and multifaceted strategies to combat the proliferation of weapons on the streets of England and Wales. From strengthening law enforcement efforts to addressing the root causes that contribute to the acquisition and use of illegal weapons, a coordinated and sustained approach is imperative. Only through a concerted effort can progress be made in curbing these concerning trends and restoring a sense of security for all citizens.
How Do We Source Our Crime Statistics?
Maintaining accuracy and objectivity in reporting crime statistics is of paramount importance to our organization. To achieve this goal, we rely on the most current batch of data obtained from the authoritative Police UK website. This comprehensive data set is then meticulously combined with the latest Census information provided by the Office of National Statistics. By integrating these two vital sources, we ensure that our analysis and reporting provide a precise and representative depiction of the crime landscape in each specific area.
One of the key elements that sets our approach apart is the utilization of a standardized ratio that expresses the number of crimes per 1,000 residents in a given area. This ratio serves as a powerful tool for comprehension, enabling a clear understanding of the relative safety or risk levels across different regions. By accounting for variables such as population size and geographic area, this metric allows for meaningful comparisons and facilitates the identification of areas that may require heightened attention or targeted interventions.
Furthermore, the use of the crimes per 1,000 people ratio ensures that our reporting is not merely a reflection of raw crime numbers, which can be misleading without proper contextualization. Instead, this approach provides a nuanced perspective, taking into account the unique characteristics of each locality and providing a more accurate representation of the crime situation experienced by the residents themselves.
Through this rigorous methodology, we strive to present our readers with a comprehensive and impartial understanding of the crime landscape, empowering them with the knowledge necessary to make informed decisions and fostering a deeper appreciation of the challenges and opportunities in enhancing public safety across England and Wales.