is london safe for travel

Is London Safe For Tourists In 2024? What You Need To Know Before Visiting

Is London safe? When compared with other major cities, London is very safe. 

In fact, London is consistently in the top 10 safest cities to travel worldwide. 

But many tourists are concerned about London safety, mostly because they’ve never been here before and don’t know what to expect. 

How safe is London, really? What do you need to be careful of as a tourist? What should you look out for? 

As a woman who lives in London, I’ll tell you exactly how to stay safe in London using common sense precautions. 

Is London Safe? 

London is a very safe city overall. It’s consistently ranked in the top safest cities by Berkshire Hathawa y. 

But what does that really mean for tourists? 

It means that London is safer than many, many cities worldwide, but just as in any large city, you need to take sensible precautions. 

How Safe is London? 

London is currently ranked the #8 of the safest cities in the world. 

• Venice, Italy

London is the capital of the United Kingdom, which is ranked the #6th safest country in the world. 

• Switzerland
• Netherlands
• United Kingdom ⭐️
• New Zealand

Why You Should Feel Safe in London 

London is safe for lots of reasons, but here are some that you might not know about. 

As a tourist coming to visit London, rest assured you’ll be safe in this city for the following reasons. 

1. London Has Three Police Forces 

London has a robust police force that takes safety in the capital very seriously. Not only that, London actually has three separate police forces that together patrol every square inch of the city. 

The Metropolitan Police take care of the London metropolitan area – 32 boroughs in all. “The Met” currently employs over 34,000 officers and 10,000 support staff.

Police are always present in crowded areas, especially in more touristy parts of the city. 

The City of London Police is the second police force in London. They patrol the “square mile” of the City of London – London’s ancient centre and financial headquarters. 

The third police force is the British Transport Police , who specifically patrol buses and the Underground network. You will often see these officers at crowded stations, ensuring the safety of all passengers. 

2. Every Inch of London is Covered by CCTV Cameras 

London is surveilled by almost a million CCTV cameras . Chances are that no matter where you go, you’re on camera. 

Yes, it’s a little dystopian if you don’t live in a place where this is the norm. But in London, if a crime occurs, it’s usually been caught on camera. 

Personally, I don’t mind being surveilled because it makes me feel safer as a woman in London. 

3. Public Transport is on CCTV AND Has Its Own Police Force 

Travellers coming from other cities might not be used to public transport, and wonder if it’s safe. 

The answer is a resounding yes: London’s public transport network is one of the safest in the world. 

The London Underground , bus, and train network is patrolled by its own robust police force. 

There are also cameras covering most of the network, including on the top and lower levels of all London buses and on all tube carriages. 

The Most Common Crime in London 

Compared to other major cities worldwide, London’s crime rate is very low. 

However, there is one common crime that targets tourists and locals alike: phone theft. 

There are over 61,000 phone thefts reported to the Metropolitan Police every year. 

In a city of almost 9 million people, with 7.8 million tourists, that’s not particularly high. But not every phone theft is reported, so the number is likely much higher.

How to Protect Your Phone from Theft 

Keeping your phone safe is easy if you use sensible precautions. 

Most people will not have their phone stolen in London, but as a traveller it’s vital you keep it tucked away. Losing your phone while travelling could become really complicated. 

Use these common sense precautions:

1. Don’t stare at your phone, especially on street corners. Bicyclists  and motorcyclists can easily grab it from your hand and whizz away. 

2. If you need to look at directions, pull over and face a wall or a barrier. Keep your phone in both hands. 

3. Keep your phone zipped up in your purse or tucked out of sight in your front pocket when you’re not using it. 

4. Never set your phone down on a table at a restaurant or pub. 

5. Consider investing in a phone tether for travelling. That way your phone is easily accessible, yet tethered to your body. 

6. Be careful when taking photos. This is a prime time when you’re distracted. This is when having a phone tether around your wrist or neck is really good sense. 

Areas with the Most Theft 

If you’re going to have your phone taken, it will most likely happen in very touristy and crowded areas where thieves can slip away undetected. 

The London neighbourhoods with the most reported thefts are: 

1. Westminster: 36,754 Thefts in 2023

Westminster is the home of Big Ben, Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, and many more tourist attractions.

It’s a prime tourist area where so many London visitors flock to take photos. Be extra vigilant with your phone in this borough. 

2. Camden: 9,914 Thefts in 2023

Camden is part residential area, part tourist destination.

The main attraction here is Camden Market, which can get quite packed and is prime territory for thieves amongst all the colourful distractions. 

3. Southwark: 7,864 Thefts Reported in 2023

Southwark is where you’ll go if you visit Borough Market.

I always advise tourists not to visit Borough Market on weekends as it gets shoulder-to-shoulder packed, and it’s very easy for pickpockets to slip by undetected. 

Is London Safe at Night? 

London is a very safe city to walk around in at night. 

If you’re walking Central London at night, most of the areas you will go have lots of people, lots of light, and everything is patrolled by police and CCTV cameras. 

7.8 million tourists visit us every year, and very, very few of them will ever be subjected to violent crime. 

However, just as in any major city, it’s important to take sensible precautions. 

While walking around London at night:

• Stay on well-lit streets
• Don’t use headphones or stare at your phone 
• Keep your valuables tucked away 
• Know where you’re going  
• Use black cabs if you need a lift – don’t ever get into an unmarked taxi, even if someone offers you a cheap fare. 

Is London Safe for Women? 

If you’re a female solo traveller, or having a girls weekend in London , you don’t need to worry about much. But I totally understand the worry.

Because we are women who simply exist in the world. everything can be more dangerous and scary for us. 

I advise all female travellers in London to take sensible precautions just as you would do in any other major city. 

To find out where to stay as a woman traveling to London, see my complete London neighborhood guide to find the perfect spot for you.

1. Know Your Emergency Numbers 

999 is the UK emergency number.  

If you’re on any of London’s transport networks and run into trouble, grab a member of staff or text British Transport Police at 61016.

Program this number into your phone in case you need it. It’s unlikely that you will, but it’s better to be prepared. 

2. Be careful with cocktails. 

Just as in any other place, cocktails and other alcoholic beverages can be drugged. Watch the bartender pour your drink and take it from them directly. 

Never drink anything that someone else has brought to you. 

3. Stay in Populated and Lit Areas 

This is common sense for any city. Stay where the action is. Don’t go wandering off to the dark corners and alleys. 

4. Choose a Black Cab 

In London I always prefer black cabs to Uber and other rideshares.

The drivers are thoroughly vetted and tested. They know London backwards and forwards, and have safety protocols they must follow. 

Rideshare drivers don’t know the streets as well, and could end up taking you on a circuitous route that can be worrying. 

I’ve had Uber drivers take me miles out of the way because that’s what Google Maps told them to do. If you know the direction you’re heading in, this can be alarming. 

There are several London apps you can use to get a black cab if you prefer an app to hailing one on the street.

5. Buddy Up 

It’s not always possible, but if you can, stay with a friend . Two pairs of eyes are always better than one, just to be extra cautious. 

Where Should I Not Go in London as a Woman? 

As a woman who lives in London, most of the areas I would not go at night are not within Central London. Everywhere in Central London is perfectly safe to visit for women traveling solo or in a group.

I often go – solo and with my family – to all Central London areas at night and have never had a problem. 

The worst thing that’s ever happened to me was phone theft (yes, even the most careful Londoners can have their phone snatched!).

If you want to know the areas not to visit, see my complete post on the safest and most dangerous areas of London here.

Keep in mind that most of the sketchy areas of London are not places you’d visit as a tourist anyway – they’re far on the outskirts and you’d have to make a concerted effort to get there. 

Legal Safety Devices in the UK 

As firearms are mostly illegal in the UK, so are many other “safety” devices. 

If you want to carry a safety device while visiting London, your best bet is a rape alarm. These are totally legal and make an ear-piercing screech when pressed. You’ll call attention to yourself from everyone with ears. 

Pepper spray is illegal in the UK, but spray dyes are not. These can not only temporarily blind your attacker, but they mark them with a semi-permanent coloured dye for easy identification. 

Knives are tricky business in the UK – many are illegal and you can get prosecuted for carrying them. Check the dimensions and legality of your safety knife before you travel. 

Personally, I don’t carry a personal safety device in London because I’ve never felt unsafe.

Is London Safe for BIPOC & LGBTQIA+ Travelers?

London is a dynamically diverse city with residents and tourists from all over the world. You’ll hear languages from all over the world walking down any London street, and meet people of all nationalities here.

Racism and homophobia exist everywhere, but it’s no worse in London than anywhere else. Hate crimes are relatively rare in London.

London has a huge LGBTQIA+ population and the city is perfectly safe for queer travelers. My queer and non-binary friends say they feel generally safe in all parts of London, but because I am a straight white woman, I cannot speak for how minorities feel here.

Use common sense just as you would anywhere else as a BIPOC or queer traveler, and you’ll have an enjoyable trip in our global city.

Common Tourist Scams in London 

Just like any other major city. London has its fair share of tourist scams. Be on the lookout for: 

1. Tuk Tuk Bikes 

This is the most well-known scam in London to locals, but many tourists are oblivious.

You’ll see brightly coloured pedicabs decorated with fairy lights and blaring music outside many West End venues. 

These scammers are well known for luring you  in with one price, then as soon as they drop you off, insist on 5x the fare. They can get quite aggressive if you refuse. 

Just avoid them. If you need a lift, hail a reputable black cab. 

2. Street Games 

You may see street gambling or guessing games, especially on busy Westminster Bridge and in other tourist-heavy areas. 

These guys are just straight up scammers. Don’t look, don’t play. Just walk right by and avoid them.

3. The Clear Cup Scam 

People will often sit on the pavement with a clear cup containing a few coins set in front of them, asking for money.

They use a clear cup so it’s less likely you’ll see it and knock it over. They’ll then kick up a huge fuss, saying their money was lost and you have to repay them. 

This is a common scam in Europe. If you do knock it over accidentally, just politely move along. 

4. Newspaper or Charity Donation Distraction 

You’re sitting outside on a beautiful restaurant patio in London. A “charity worker” or “tourist” suddenly approaches with a large clipboard, map, or paper and puts it on your table or waves it in front of your face. 

They’ve just distracted you, and will snatch your valuables before you’re any wiser. 

Never keep your phone on the table, and don’t put your handbag on the back of your chair when sitting outside. 

This doesn’t just happen in London, it happens all over, and it’s the oldest thief trick in the book. Just be aware of it and you’ll be fine. 

If they do approach you, stand up and call attention to yourself. They’ll quickly leave. 

5. Motorcyclists and Bicyclists on the Pavement 

If you’re walking on the sidewalk and a bicyclist or motorcyclist mounts the pavement, they’re coming for your phone or purse. 

Turn around so they can’t reach you, or pop behind a barrier. 

Sometimes you’ll see bicyclists or motorcyclists milling about, turning circles in the street. They’re waiting for an oblivious tourist with their head buried in their phone. 

Especially if there is a driver and a passenger on the bike, they are definitely thieves (one drives and one snatches). I’ve seen this happen way too many times.

Remain aware of your surroundings and you’ll be fine. 

Other London Safety Measures 

Here are some other common-sense measures to take when travelling in London and abroad. 

1. Keep your passports locked up

Don’t carry your passport in your purse. If you’re staying in a hotel, keep it in the safe. If you’re in an Airbnb , hide it somewhere (but remember where you stashed it). 

2. Keep copies of your passport in your email and luggage

Always keep scanned copies of your passport and other travel documents in your email (so you can access them even if your device is stolen), and paper copies in your luggage.  

3. Turn on Stolen Device Protection 

If you have an iPhone, Apple just rolled out a new safety feature called “Stolen Device Protection.” It offers you a second layer of protection if your device is stolen. 

4. Don’t Carry All Your Money in One Place 

If you regularly travel with multiple credit or debit cards, leave some in different places (i.e. leave one in your hotel safe or one stashed away, and carry the other one for use).

That way, if your wallet or phone (or both) are stolen, you won’t be stuck without any way to access money. 

If it makes you feel safer, keep some emergency pounds stashed away just in case.

5. Consider Travel Insurance 

My family just learned this the hard way. Our passports were stolen whilst travelling abroad, and it cost us thousands of pounds to get emergency passports, extend our hotel stay, and buy another flight home to London.

Had we been covered by travel insurance, we would have been better protected in such an emergency. 

Shop around and find the best travel protection for you.

Is London Safe Now?

With the various protests, demonstrations and national security issues in our world today, you may wonder if London is safe to visit today in 2024.

Protests in London are no different than in other major city. They very, very rarely get violent, and are heavily monitored by police.

Protests may block off small parts of the city, but they will hardly ever disrupt your visit.

London is massive and even if there is a protest on one block, it hardly ever disrupts travelers. Transport usually runs as normal, and unless you’re going to the specific street the protest is on, you don’t even notice its happening.

How Safe is London, Really? Final Thoughts 

Being from America , I feel much safer in London than I do travelling in most other parts of the world. 

If you’re coming to visit us here in the UK, take common sense precautions – just as you would anywhere else – but don’t worry too much about safety here. London is overall a very, very safe city. 

I think many people are intimidated by the sheer size and complexity of London , and are therefore worried about what the day-to-day will bring. 

Rest assured, you’re much safer in London than you are in other major cities. 

Keep an eye on your phone, use common sense, and enjoy your London travels! 

More on Visiting London

Common London Tourist Mistakes to Avoid

Safest Areas Of London: Here’s What the Data Says 

Is East London Dangerous?

Best Oyster Card Tourist Options To Save Money

Easy And Free Things To Do In London For Families

Where To Find Public Toilets In London

Is Tipping Required In The UK?

Similar Posts

Masterlist: 250+ London Instagram Captions for the Perfect Post Every Time

Copy & paste one of these unique London Instagram captions for the perfect post.

Is Tipping in the UK Expected? A Super Simple Guide 

An easy guide to tipping in the UK, with exactly how much to tip (or not tip!) in every situation during your travels.

Super Simple London Neighborhood Guide: Where’s Best for You? 

An easy, free London neighborhood guide for you to decide where to stay or where to live.

See 55 Spectacular London Museums Free + Map (& 10 Worth Your Money)

You can see over 55 London museums free. But which ones interest you? Here’s a complete list.

Where Should I Stay in London Quiz: Find Your Perfect Accommodation Now!

Where should you stay in London? Find out now with the simple Where Should I Stay in London Quiz!

Cheapest & Fastest Ways to Get From All 6 Airports in London (2024)

Airports in London are spread out all over. What’s the best and cheapest way to get from Heathrow to London? What about Gatwick to London? Here’s all of your options with prices.

Is It Safe in London?

Betsie Van Der Meer / Getty Images

Considered by some to be the world's capital city, London is truly a place that offers something for everyone. While London is overall a safe place to visit, there are risks, neighborhoods, and scams to be aware of, just like when visiting any major city. London is one of the most visited cities in the world and by reading up on what to prepare for and taking some simple precautions, you can enjoy your trip just as well as the millions of other international travelers who visit each year.  

Travel Advisories

• The U.S. State Department has issued a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" travel advisory for visitors to the U.K. Restrictions and advisories change frequently and quickly, so check for updates from the  U.S. State Department  as well as  local authorities .
• Prior to March 2020, the U.S. State Department advised visitors to the U.K. to "Exercise Increased Caution," but not to reconsider travel.

Is London Dangerous?

As with any major city, London experiences its share of crime, both violent and non-violent. Knife crimes are particularly troublesome in the city and are used to perpetrate robberies, sexual assaults, and homicides. The good news for travelers is that these violent crimes are mostly committed in the outer boroughs away from the touristic areas and are more often than not related to gangs. However, more crimes per capita occur in the popular and central Westminster and Camden neighborhoods than any other, although these are mostly petty theft or other tourist scams.

Some of the most common scams aside from pickpocketing include thieves who ride by on motorbikes and grab the bag or purse from an unsuspecting pedestrian on the sidewalk. If you're carrying a bag, keep it across your body and not dangling near the street. Another common scam includes street performers who distract passersby while an accomplice furtively steals your belongings.

London has experienced some high-profile terrorist attacks that, taken altogether, may give the impression that the city isn't safe to visit. However, the U.K. national government maintains an updated national threat level so you can stay alert to potential risks.

Is London Safe for Solo Travelers?

Lone travelers and backpackers embarking on Euro trips nearly always make an obligatory stop in the U.K. , and traveling solo around London carries the same risks as any other big city. In general, the constant crowds mean you'll hardly ever be alone and the biggest threat you should be concerned about is pickpockets. You should be hyperaware of your belongings and carry them in a safe place, especially when you're visiting popular landmarks or touristic areas.

If you're out at night and moving around the city alone, use common sense and avoid dimly lit streets with few people. Have your route planned out before you leave your accommodations, since being alone and lost in London can quickly become overwhelming. If you feel unsafe walking, don't hesitate to grab a night bus, a black cab , or another ride-sharing form of transportation.

Is London Safe for Female Travelers?

Women who live in London and visit are able to move around the city without major problems. Women walking around at night, especially when alone, should always take extra precautions, such as avoiding dark streets and trying to stay near areas with people at hand. Public transportation around London is considered to be safe overall, but night buses have a tendency to get rowdy, especially the double-decker buses. The rowdiness is usually light-hearted, but sitting on the lower level near the driver is always an option if it gets out of hand.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

London is a very progressive city and travelers across the LGBTQ+ spectrum should feel welcome. No city, not even London, is completely immune to homophobia and transphobia, and LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise normal precautions. However, taken as a whole, London is a place that celebrates sexual diversity instead of repressing it, and travelers can feel that from attitudes on the street all the way up to legal protections (the U.K. bans all types of discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity).  

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

By all measures, London is always near the top of the list for rankings of the most multicultural cities.   More than a third of London's residents were born outside of the U.K. and the diversity of the city is apparent from the shades of skin tone, the gamut of languages spoken, and the never-ending options of world cuisine.   And while for the vast majority of Londoners diversity is just a part of daily life, there are also several reported incidents of racism, Islamophobia, and anti-Semitism.

There is generally an uptick in hate crimes and intolerant acts following major newsworthy events. For example, immediately following the Westminster terrorist attack in 2017, hate crimes against Muslims in London surged.   In the week after the Brexit referendum, hate crimes in general across the city were nearly twice as high as usual.   If you're a BIPOC traveler in London, stay informed on local and global news. For emergency situations, dial 999 immediately from any phone, otherwise file a hate crime report for a non-emergency situation to notify the police of your experience.

Safety Tips for Travelers

• Public transit stations are one of the most common spots for theft, especially those with the most traffic such as King's Cross St Pancras and Victoria stations. Be extra vigilant of your surroundings when using public transit.
• Keep your travel documents, credit cards, and cash in a safe location, and consider using a money belt when walking around the city so they are less accessible.
• Be careful when crossing the street. If you're accustomed to cars driving on the right side of the road, it's easy to step in front of moving traffic.
• Walking while listening to headphones makes you less aware of what's going on around you, so consider pausing the music while you navigate the city.
• More and more bars and restaurants around London are installing anti-theft clips underneath tables, so you can safely secure your bag and make it much harder for someone to steal.
• When using an ATM—or cashpoint as they're called in the U.K.—make sure you're in a safe location and no one is hovering nearby.

CNN Travel. "The most visited cities in the world 2019." Published Dec. 3, 3019. Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

U.S. Department of State. " United Kingdom Travel Advisory. " July 19, 2021.

U.S. Department of State. " United Kingdon Travel Advisory. " August 6, 2020.

Evening Standard. "London knife crime hits record high with more than 15,000 offences in a year." Published Jan 23, 2020. Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

Verisure. "How safe is Camden - Crime statistics for Camden London." Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

Citizens Advice. "Discrimination because of sexual orientation." Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

World Atlas. "The most diverse cities in the world." Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

London Data Store. "Londoners born overseas, their age and year of arrival." Published 2013. Retrieved Jan 4, 2021.

TellMAMA. " The Importance of Narrative in Responding to Hate Incidents Following ‘Trigger’ Events. " November 2018.

Greater London Authority. " Tackling hate crime and intolerance. " 2020.

Is It Safe in Egypt?

Is It Safe in Sweden?

Is It Safe in Barbados?

Is It Safe in Puerto Rico?

Is It Safe in Germany?

Is It Safe in Mexico?

Is It Safe in Iceland?

Is It Safe in Jamaica?

Is It Safe in Rio de Janeiro?

Is It Safe in Colombia?

Is It Safe in Peru?

Is It Safe in Ireland?

Is It Safe in Thailand?

Is It Safe in Paris?

Is It Safe in Guatemala?

Is It Safe in Europe?

We’re on the road right now – join in on the fun and follow @thebrokebackpacker on IG!

• Meet the Team
• Work with Us
• Czech Republic
• Netherlands
• Switzerland
• Scandinavia
• Philippines
• South Korea
• New Zealand
• South Africa
• Budget Travel
• Work & Travel
• The Broke Backpacker Manifesto
• Travel Resources
• How to Travel on $10/day

Home » Europe » London

Is London SAFE for Travel? (Insider Tips For 2024)

London is awesome. If you like your European capitals with a lot of history and grand buildings, well you’ll find that here. More than that though is multicultural, vibrant, and cool London with the great food scene and amazing nightlife.

Obviously, not all of the city is going to be like that. In fact, some parts of London can be downright dangerous. There’s also the chance of petty theft and scammers in some of the biggest tourist areas and the terrorist attacks.

The British capital is a great place to visit, but our aim is to make it even better for you with this epic insider’s guide to staying safe in London. We will be covering just about everything from London’s public transport – including the famous Tube and the literally iconic double-decker red buses – all the way to how not to get a dodgy stomach from eating out in London.

So whether you’re thinking of a family trip to London, whether you want to come to this cool city on a solo travel trip, or if you’re just wondering whether or not London is safe to visit right now, we’ve got you covered with our insider’s guide. Ready? Let’s do this.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

How Safe is London? (Our take)

Is london safe to visit (the facts), is it safe to visit london right now, london travel insurance, 23 top safety tips for traveling to london, keeping your money safe in london, is london safe to travel alone, is london safe for solo female travellers, is london safe to travel for families, is it safe to drive in london, is uber safe in london, are taxis safe in london, is public transportation in london safe, is the food in london safe, can you drink the water in london, is london safe to live, how is healthcare in london, faq about staying safe in london, final thoughts on the safety of london.

London is a major backpacking destination . This is a global city that you might think is all about Big Ben  and  Harrods , but there’s so much more going on here that it’s going to literally blow your mind.

That said, it’s not always Mary Poppins. It’s also Oliver Twist and Jack the Ripper.

Pickpockets around big transport hubs and tourist hotspots (crowded places, basically) are definitely an issue. These guys will be on the lookout for shiny smartphones and bulging wallets.

Thieves on motorbikes are a relatively new thing, whereby they zoom past and grab anything of value you happen to be holding. Usually, that’s a smartphone. Also, mugging does happen here – this depends on what area of London you’re in , however.

Terrorism has occurred and is still a sensitive subject for the city. It’s been targeted by terrorists in the past so the alert is still pretty high – “severe” is the official warning, meaning an attack is “highly likely”. Your bags will be searched at places like museums, and don’t be surprised if Tube stations are closed because of bomb scares, or that a “suspicious package” being found might delay a train.

Generally, Londoners will roll their eyes, tut and carry on with their day. Business as usual. So to them, at least, London is safe.

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is London Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling London. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to London.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

Tourism in London is a big deal – it’s on the rise, too.

In 2018 it saw 37.9 million visitors , which is more than four times the population of the city. It’s an iconic international city that most people, probably, will want to visit at least once in their life, like Paris or Rome .

Unfortunately, along with tourism, crime is also on the rise. It had been falling consistently, but in 2014 severe police cutbacks were rolled out as well as social austerity and crime has been on the rise ever since.

Knife crime has gone up by 24%, gun crime by 42%. Theft has gone up 12%. And those moped gangs have been a trend since 2014. These gangs operate even in daylight hours in central areas like  Great Portland Street and have threatened people with weapons.

The United Kingdom itself is 57th on the Global Peace Index , which is sort of a middling – below Qatar  and just above  Montenegro .

But seriously, most Londoners live a harmonious life and just want to get on with their day.

Updated October 2019

Knife crime is on the rise across London. Most of this appears to be gang related or stemming from feueds but there have been a few “randomn” attacks of late. So far no tourists have been impacted.

Protests & Demonstrations

There is some political upheaval going on in the UK at the moment. This is causing tension between different groups of people and London has been the main stage for all of it. Even racially motivated attacks have been on the rise.

Marches and demonstrations are pretty common at the moment but are usually peaceful. However, we’d still recommend to not get involved as they can turn violent. The reason for most of it? Brexit, aka leaving – or not leaving – the European Union. It is anticpated that there will be more protests and these may become heated as and when the date of leaving the European Union approaches. It may be wise to avoid discussing this deeply divisive issue with locals.

Extinction Rebellion have also been protesting widely across the city but these protests are peaceful.

There’s also a threat of terrorism. There have been a number of incidents in recent years, with 2017 being particularly bad. London’s security services are on high alert and are reported to be stopping potential attacks in their tracks. That said, some do happen. For example, barriers have been installed on major London bridges, and outside places like the Houses of Parliament to prevent attacks on pedestrians by people driving cars and vans onto pavements.

Right wing terrorism is also a concern, with that general kind of ideology on the rise across Europe.

However, the threat of terrorism is statistically very low and you have more chance been killed by a shark, lightning. or your own toaster.

In conclusion, London is safe to visit right now. Don’t let any of that put you off. People live in London. There’s a famous picture of a man running away from a terrorist attack that occurred in  London Bridge 2017, complete with a pint of beer in hand. That gives you an idea of the attitude. Come and join in!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

London may have its issues with terrorism and crime, but that shouldn’t put you off visiting the amazing British capital. It’s a historic, exciting city that you are going to love exploring. And in general, it’s a pretty safe place. To help you stay extra safe and have an awesome time in the city, we’ve got together our top safety tips for traveling to London so you can tackle the capital like a travelling pro.

• Stay aware of your surroundings  – being oblivious to crime is a good way to become a victim of it.
• Don’t go around with your bag open  – or a handbag that’s easily accessible – especially in busy areas. Thieves dip!
• And don’t hang your bag on the back your chair  – at a cafe or restaurant – it might just go missing.
• Don’t leave your bag unattended either  – not only could it get robbed, but you may end up causing a big security alert.
• Avoid having your smartphone in hand in certain areas – places like  Dalston  may be cool, but things can go missing here.
• And don’t put your phone in your back pocket  – fine in Tokyo , not in London.
• Take note of who’s around you at ATMs – not common but having someone steal your freshly withdrawn money could happen this way.
• Walk around confidently – looking lost might attract some unwanted attention. Walking with confidence will make you look less vulnerable.
• Steer clear of drugs – London is liberal, except when it comes to drugs. Buying them is a good way to mix with some sketchy characters – and the police.
• Avoid dodgy looking streets after dark  – dodgy looking streets are usually where you find dodgy people. Be smart.
• Leave flashy stuff at home  – or in the hotel, where it will be safe. This includes wads of cash. If you want to bring some cash with you, wear a money belt.
• Try to blend in  – tourists in London always stand out. Backpacks on the front, wearing hiking gear in the city centre, having a map… All of these things and more will make you stand out as a tourist and therefore a potential target.
• Beware: London has a drinking culture  – or should we say drunk culture. Things can get very rowdy outside (and inside) pubs, bars and nightclubs. The last train home and night buses can be very raucous too. It can be fun, but things can turn ugly.
• Don’t skip the line  – Londoners queue for things, always. No one skips the line and it would be considered rude to do so.
• Pubs aren’t table service  – stand at the bar and wait for your turn. People will hate it if you “reserve” a table with your bag, too.
• Avoid wearing football shirts if there’s a big match on  – it could cause a passionate response from the opposing team’s supporters. Football rivalry + high testosterone levels + drinking = potential trouble.
• Try not to fall asleep on the last train home/night bus  – you could end up miles from where you’re staying.
• Plan your journey  – you don’t want to be lost on the Tube with a stream of commuters on your back.
• Londoners aren’t as grumpy as they’re painted out to be  – if you’re in trouble, need directions, or help, ask someone! They’ll give you a hand.
• But don’t get in people’s way  – standing on the left side of an escalator, stopping in the middle of the pavement may enrage some people.
• Learn some British lingo – for example, you may be confused when people keep saying “quid” – that’s ‘Pound’ (£) – or “sorry” to try to get past you in a busy shop or something.
• Be polite  – please, thank you, sorry. The three big words. Use them liberally – that’s how it is here.
• Understand that big events affect the city  – Notting Hill Carnival, the London Marathon, some gig in Hyde Park. Not only are roads closed, but crowds gather and the atmosphere changes, which can affect your trip – and your safety. Check what’s going on!

Those were our tips for staying safe in London. Keep them in mind, and you’ll be bound to have an awesome time exploring this multicultural hub of heritage and the modern-day. Eat food from all over the world but stay in one city. Stop for a pint (or two) in the pub with everyone else. London, away from all the warnings, is a pretty safe city. Remember to be polite, use your common sense , and enjoy!

You’re travelling and having an amazing time. Then suddenly your wallet is missing. How the…? Exactly. Pickpockets and petty thieves can hit you when you least expect it and leave you with no money.

London may not be the pickpocketing capital of the world, but stuff like this can still happen. The answer is having nothing in your pockets to pick in the first place. We’re talking about a  travel money belt .

There is a ton of choice when it comes to purchasing your very own money belt. But in London, or anywhere really, you’re not going to want something with a million pockets that’s uncomfortable, hard to access and obvious-looking.

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

There is a load of reasons why you’d want to travel by yourself. Challenging yourself, getting to do whatever you feel like doing, levelling up as a person, seeing the world… All good reasons to go solo. Of course, there are going to be things that aren’t so good about it, too.

But we would say: don’t feel scared about travelling solo to London. It’s actually a pretty friendly place. London and its inhabitants see its fair share of foreign travellers and is a pretty cool mix of cultures, too. Here are some tips to help you ace your time in the city.

• Make yourself some friends. There are different ways to do this, obviously, but the best way is going to be booking yourself into a social hostel in London . You should definitely read reviews though and find the place that’s going to suit your style.
• Do some research on what area you want to be in . East London  is the hipster-friendly area, whilst Central is all about the big streets and big sights and the West is mainly affluent. What you want to get up to in the city will influence where you want to stay. Do your research!
• Don’t be afraid to go out for a drink by yourself . British people often go down the pub by themselves and get chatting to other people. So stand at the bar if you feel like having a chat. Or grab yourself a table, read a newspaper, watch whatever they might be showing on TV.
• Go to museums. London boasts a ton of museums and galleries – many of which are actually free! So if you feel like soaking up some culture whilst you’re in the city, there is definitely no shortage of places to get your fill of art, history, design, fashion, and science. Pick one and spend the day wandering around. This is especially good if it’s cold or raining.
• When it comes to eating out by yourself, never fear . London has a growing street food culture – head to Borough Market  for example. You could go pick yourself up a fish ‘n’ chips (classic) or go down the pub and order yourself some “pub grub” – always a firm favourite.
• Take a free walking tour . These may be available at your hostel, but there are actually quite a few of these to choose from online, too. So you should have a search around and find one that interests you. No doubt you’ll be able to get chatting with whoever else is on the tour. You might even meet a fellow traveller.
• Don’t feel like you have to do everything . You definitely don’t have to tick all the boxes to have “done London”. Most Londoners would never go and see B uckingham Palace  for example, or the  Tower of London . Simply wandering around and soaking up the atmosphere, or finding some off the beaten track stuff to do, is a more relaxing way to go about it than zooming from one tourist spot to the next. A good way to exhaust yourself.
• Get yourself a sim card . Having data on your phone is great for getting around, finding good places to eat, directions, figuring out what Tube connections to make. It’s also good to keep in touch with friends and family back home, which is good if you’re feeling the ‘solo travel blues’ or just fancy talking to someone you actually know.
• Don’t get taxis and the Tube all the time . It can get pricey – taxis especially. Take out one of the bicycles and pedal around – they’re low priced and a good way to see the city, especially some of the greener areas like Hyde Park and Victoria Park . Or simply walk and discover the city on foot.

Basically, you’re going to have an awesome time in London even if you’re coming here on a solo travel trip. Not only that, but it’s most definitely safe for solo travellers in London. You’ll get to see some iconic sights, do some iconic things, ride some iconic transport and meet some friendly people. Keep our tips in mind and make sure that you do your research – planning is the key to an awesome time!

London is a safe place to go for solo female travellers. This city is a forward-thinking, modern city – women are by themselves all the time. They live by themselves, work by themselves, travel by themselves, and without any trouble. You’ll fit right in amongst them.

People in London are generally speaking polite and friendly. More than that, there’s nothing too alarming that’s going to stop you from having an amazing time in the British capital. Even so, we’ve got some safety tips for solo female travellers in London for good measure!

• Find a hostel or a cool guesthouse with an atmosphere.  Meeting other people is a big part of travelling by yourself, which is ironic since you’re by yourself. That said, cities can be isolating, so having a few travelling or drinking buddies to hit the town with after dark is a good way to blow off steam and feel (at least a little bit) like you belong.
• Get to know people . Search for events near you. Do a park run. Get involved in events. Go to a gig. There are lots of things you could be doing in London where you get to meet people.
• You can wear pretty much whatever you want in London . That said, it’s better to be on the more conservative side of things if you’re going out at night. Though uncommon and sort of unheard during the day, at night London gets rowdy and unwanted attention could come your way.
• If you do get unwanted attention by a man or group of men, try to remove yourself . Be polite and tell them you’re not interested. Being rude or even ignoring could actually make things a bit heated. Show that you’re not interested and move away.
• However, if you really need help, tell someone nearby . A couple, another group of men, the people behind the bar, a family – most people will stick up for you.
• Make sure you know how to get home back to wherever you’re staying . Plan your route; being lost in the middle of London, especially when everyone’s been drinking, can be overwhelming.
• If you’re getting the night bus, it’s best to sit nearer the driver on the lower deck . People can get stupid when they’re drunk and it’s best to be near some sort of authority rather than isolated on the top deck. Similarly, if you’re getting the Tube late at night, sit in full carriages and steer clear of empty ones. Better safe than sorry.
• Tell people what you’re up to. Call your friends and fam back home and let them know your movements. Mention to the staff at your hostel if you’re going out for the night. Just better that people know where you are and what you’re doing than not.

Basically, London is a  safe city.  You can sometimes judge a place on how safe it is for solo female travellers, and we would say that London is up there with some of the safest. Obviously, there are things that are going to make you feel unsafe… e.g. lots of drunk people.

Yes, London definitely likes to drink. However, it is easy to keep clear of places where people are going to get too rowdy by simply not going there. For the most part, this won’t really affect your trip to London. It might seem excessive or scary. And it is. But that’s London.

As far as your actual safety is concerned, London is safe for solo female travellers. Common sense plays a big part in how safe you’re going to be, like not wandering alone through sketchy parts of the city, but if you travel smart and keep our tips in mind you’ll be fine!

Of course it is! London is a top tourist destination and is visited by millions of people every year, many of them families.

There’s a ton of stuff to do in this city if you’ve got kids with you. From the many parks and green spaces, historic sights, child-friendly museums, and restaurants with children’s menus, to child facilities all over the place and big sights like the London Eye  and  London Zoo , you won’t have any trouble finding stuff to do here.

Make sure you book yourself accommodation with plenty of room for you and your family. Cheaper hotel rooms in the city centre can be pretty small and not exactly spacious. It might be a good idea to opt for an Airbnb somewhere just outside of the city centre, like Battersea for example.

You could even go for an actual B&B, too for a friendly, more homely experience.

Basically, everything is pretty child-friendly in London. Restaurants will have high-chairs and spaces for prams. Some might even give you colouring-in and toys to keep your kids entertained whilst the food’s getting cooked up.

Another nice option is the pubs. Formerly not so child-friendly, there are now plenty of places where children are welcomed. Some even have pub gardens with playgrounds – perfect for lunchtimes and early evening meals. You’ll see loads of other families hanging out here, especially at weekends.

To get around, you could use the Tube with your children. Some underground stations don’t have lifts and instead, there are steep staircases to contend with. If people see you struggling with a pushchair or carrying luggage, they will more than likely offer to help you; you’ll probably get a few offers of help.

Or you could hop on and off buses – you’ll need an Oyster Card for that. We wouldn’t recommend going in peak hours (rush hour, basically). But the top deck of one of London’s red buses is as good as a sightseeing bus – your children will be enthralled with the city whizzing by.

Make the most of all the free museums and galleries. The Natural History Museum, the Science Museum, the Tate Modern, the V&A, the British Museum – honestly some of the best in the world. And all free!

There are places outside the city to check out too. Don’t forget  Hampton Court Palace  – complete with a maze – for a fun time with your family. There are also tours inside the city to go on, we’re talking Harry Potter level stuff.

London is not only safe for families – it’s amazing if you come here on a family holiday. There’s literally nothing to worry about.

London is safe to drive in. But like most cities, you just won’t want or need to.

It’s not worth it – for a number of reasons.

First, the traffic can be absolutely mental. We’re talking very busy in the mornings and evenings.

Second, if you’re not used to driving on the left, that’s going to cause another headache.

Then there are things like traffic lights, speed cameras, cyclists to watch out for, the congestion charge, ‘yellow box’ junctions (where you can’t stop within certain yellow grids marked on the road – otherwise you get fined), one-way streets, bus lanes, and some super expensive parking. Even Londoners don’t really like driving in London.

All that said, driving standards are high. People let each other go, don’t really cut you up, and you won’t hear people using their horns too much either.

However, if you’ve chosen to stay outside of the city centre, maybe in a suburb, then you should be fine driving. Get yourself a car and you can explore the surrounding area. Naturally, having your own wheels opens a destination up. You’ll be able to go on day trips to places like Brighton  on the south coast,  Oxford  and its historic university, even  Stonehenge  is just a few hours’ drives from the capital.

In conclusion, for a London city centre trip – don’t bother driving. If you’re on the outskirts, it’s not essential, but it’s definitely safe and will help you see much more of the country.

 Cycling in London

You’ve probably come across one or two horrible London cycling videos, where bikes crash, get into massive road rages or yell the most creative insults at people in cars. That’s what most of us associate with riding a bike in London. But is this really the case?

London’s inner city is busy. There are cabs, people on foot, lots of cars and quite a few bicycles on the streets. We’re not going to lie, London is definitely not on “safest city for cycling” list, but we can say, that if you stick to the rules , the possibility to end up in one of the viral videos is pretty low.

Here are some of the basic rules:

• Wear a helmet!
• clearly indicate where you’re going
• only use the bike lanes or normal road. Never use the sidewalk.
• don’t ignore traffic lights – if it’s red, you have to wait!

Stick to these rules and you’ll be perfectly safe on your bike trip!

Renting a bike in London can be incredibly cheap. There are a couple of bike hire schemes , which allow you to rent a bike for 2 pounds a day. These bikes are usually just normal city bikes.

If you want something fancier, you’d have to go to a proper rental shop. These shops can also give you great tips, explain the rules and make sure you’re safe and prepared for your bike trip. We’d definitely recommend this option for first-time visitors , or people that aren’t sure about the traffic rules. There are a lot of cycling maps and tips online too if you want to find out even more.

Uber is safe in London. You should always make sure that the car you’re getting in is 100% the exact same one that you’ve booked on the app. Same license plate, same colour, the same type of car.

Most Uber drivers are pretty friendly and up for a chat.

Londoners tend to use Uber after a night out when public transport goes to sleep. They’re cheaper than taxis, that’s for sure.

London has some pretty iconic taxis. The black cabs, also known as Hackney Carriages, are the granddaddy of taxis.

The drivers have to go through a painstaking, years-long process known as ‘The Knowledge’ – it is basically learning every single road in London. As such these are pretty top class and will know how to get anywhere. They won’t rip you off. You can even get on them if you’re in a wheelchair. They’re pretty amazing.

But they’re also pretty pricey. These are the only taxis you can hail on the street in the city.

Radio taxis you have to call up. Minicabs, as they’re known, should all be registered without exception. You can check the Transport for London website to see whether or not the company you’re using is licensed.

Minicabs in London are generally quite safe and reasonably priced – especially compared to black cabs. They don’t run on the meter so you should ask how much the fare will be when you book your taxi.

All private hire vehicles have a Transport for London license disc on their rear windscreen.

It is literally illegal to get into a minicab that you haven’t booked. What this means is if you are approached by a driver who asks if you’d like a taxi, this is not legal. It’s an unsafe way to travel and you may well be putting yourself into danger by getting into them.

Ask the staff at your hostel or hotel, the staff at a club or pub, the number for a decent taxi company. Better yet, if it’s your accommodation, you can probably ask them to book one for you.

You can get a taxi from any of London’s airports, but it probably won’t be very cost-effective.

All in all, taxis in London are safe, but might not be the cheapest option.

Yes – and there’s a whole load of it! Almost all of it is iconic.

There’s the Tube. This has the prestige of being the first subway system in the world. It’s pretty old and you can still see that oldness.

It’s pretty safe. It’s unlikely that you’re going to come into contact with unsavoury characters, like pickpockets or beggars, but it’s still a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings.

There are 11 Tube lines that run from 5 AM till midnight. Some lines boast 24-hour services at the weekend – it’s called the  Night Tube .

Get yourself an Oyster Card – or if you’ve got a contactless debit or credit card, you can use that, although it will be slightly more expensive.

At night, especially at the weekend, the Tube can get rowdy. Also on quieter suburban lines, it’s best to stick to carriages with people in them – just to be on the safe side.

Then there are the London buses. They’re everywhere and often, they’re the iconic red double-decker buses. They’re a cheap way to get around – the fare is £1.50 – and you can even use them as a cheap alternative to one of those open-top tourist buses to see the sights around the city! Note: you cannot use cash. You have to use an Oyster or contactless card to use them.

Night buses can get quite rowdy. Usually, it’s a fun atmosphere, people singing and chatting all the way home. Sometimes there are a few idiots. Sometimes it might be dangerous. Most of the time, London’s drunk people are good fun.

There are also other trains. Overground lines run overground, as opposed to underground, and they’re all pretty clean and well maintained. Nothing to worry about really. The same goes for the DLR, another overground line.

Then there are  National Rail and other train networks that lead to out of town areas. These have guards. At the start of journeys, from  Waterloo , for instance, they’ll make an announcement over the PA in the train and say what carriage they’re located in. If you have any trouble, find them and tell them.

There are also bicycles to rent around town. They’re really cheap and there is a load of different docking stations where you can pick up a bike and drop one-off. If you feel like exploring some of the leafier sections of town, and you want to do so by pedal power, it’s a great way to do so.

Make sure to cycle on the left-hand side of the road, be careful at roundabouts, and don’t cycle on the pavement- it’s illegal! There are plenty of cycle lanes to stick to.

There are also boats that you can get up and down the  River Thames . These are relatively cheap and a fun way to see a city that basically grew up on being a riverside settlement. Cool.

We’d recommend trying all the public transport. You’re only in London once! (Well, unless you visit again).

If you’re considering a move to the city, check out our cost of living in London post!

For some reason, people think of British food as disgusting. We don’t know where this has come from. These days, London is literally one of the best places to eat in the world. There are dozens of Michelin star restaurants, Japanese food, Indian, Turkish, and good old pubs.

Don’t get lost in the array of choices to eat. Look online for the top-rated restaurants in your area, avoid terrible tourist traps like Angus Steakhouse (not London at all) and enjoy the selection. To help you with your gastronomic adventures in London, we’ve got some tips…

• Watch out for late-night kebab shops. They’re frequented by drunk people after nights out. Many people will admit they never would eat them sober. Sometimes hygiene standards are questionable at these places. To be on the safe side, avoid the meat, opt for chips (or “fries” as some people call them).
• Head for Soho if you want to try some tasty Asian food. Japanese, Vietnamese, Chinese, take your pick. These restaurants won’t be making you ill at all. They’re proper good.
• Treat yourself to a greasy fry up for breakfast. What’s that? Also known as a ‘full English’ this is a predominantly cooked breakfast of bacon, eggs, baked beans, toast, black pudding (made of blood and grains), sausages. You can get veggie options in many places too, so you won’t be left out. This will definitely set you up for the day. Don’t be afraid of the grease.
• Try fish ‘n’ chips . Some places are better than others. Read reviews online of some of London’s top fish and chip joints and go to the most celebrated of them. You won’t be disappointed with your slice of fried fish. Fresh is best, and doesn’t forget the mushy peas on the side!
• Brick Lane is known for its Indian cuisine . However, down this street are many, many touts trying to get you into their place. Many claim to be the ‘best’ curry in London, but that’s not true. It’s best to look up a place online if you feel like some Indian food, and then hone in on that specific restaurant. Do not follow touts.
• Go for a roast dinner at a pub . It’s a Sunday thing. Best eaten in the depths of winter for a warming, homely feeling. Again, it’s best to research if you want a truly amazing roast dinner.
• A good rule of thumb (for anywhere in the world): go to busy places.  Empty restaurants are, sorry, probably empty for a reason. Londoners like what they like and will keep returning to a place they’ve secured as a ‘good restaurant’. So it’s worth waiting around outside for a table somewhere. Alternatively, book ahead if you’ve got somewhere in mind.
• Wash your hands! A day out in London can get your hands extremely dirty. Holding onto escalator rails, Tube poles, door handles, generally walking next to traffic-laden roads. You’ll be amazed at what colour the water turns when you apply some soap to your mitts. Best to do this before eating, definitely.

Honestly though, the food hygiene standards – like the standard of the food itself – is pretty high in Lisbon. There won’t be too much you have to worry about at all. This city is high in tastiness and you will honestly have a field day exploring all the places you can get a bite.

The worst thing you can probably do in Lisbon is to go to a tourist trap restaurant. It won’t be that good, you’ll get ripped off, you may even get a bad stomach, who knows. But it’s just not worth it. Ask around, read reviews, and only sample the best of Lisbon’s food scene!

Yeah, but some people say it’s not very tasty. Even so, the water is safe to drink in London.

You can even ask in restaurants, pubs, nightclubs, anywhere, for a “tap water”. Bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up wherever you want. If you don’t have one, we’ve put together a list of the best travel water bottles to help you out.

London is definitely safe to live in. Like many cities, however, not all areas are what we’d consider ‘safe’.

For example,  East London  may be where the cool kids hang out, but there is also a higher percentage of crime – some of it gang-related – in these eastern boroughs of the city.

Other places around social housing estates (or ‘council estates’ as they’re known) are often not safe places to live thanks to their relatively high levels of crime.

The thing is, London is still pretty safe compared to most major cities around the world. Unless you’ve actively involved in gangs or crime yourself, the most that will happen (probably) is your phone getting stolen. That’s about it.

The safest places to live are places like  Richmond , a leafy southwestern suburb, or Islington  a relatively affluent area in the north. Choosing your area to live is very important to how safe you’re going to feel living in London. We recommend you do a ton of research on this.

London can get expensive , rent is high and the cost of public transport to get to work every day also adds up. Then again, wages are relatively high, too. There’s always walking, or cycling, however.

Quality of life is decent. People think it rains all the time in London but it doesn’t. It is quite cloudy, but there definitely are rainier places in the world. When it gets to summer, London is awesome. The city comes to life with people enjoying drinks outside pubs, picnicking the parks, and plenty of festivals, making it a super fun city!

London is safe to live, but it doesn’t mean you’re immune from crime or danger. Terrorist attacks could happen. A thief could randomly target you. That is sort of life in a city. With so many people, it’s pretty unpredictable.

On a day to day basis, however, London is a great place to live and we reckon you’ll feel pretty secure.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

Two things: good and free! London boasts world-class surgeons, physicians, and hospitals.

The National Health Service (NHS) offers up free-of-charge healthcare to all UK citizens or anyone in the UK. From surgery to check-ups and all sorts of other procedures, London’s inhabitants don’t have to pay a penny at point of service. It’s amazing.

If you need to be seen by a doctor or GP (General Practitioner) then get yourself to a walk-in clinic. You can turn up here without an appointment and be seen. It depends on the severity of what’s wrong with you, less severe, the longer you wait. Waiting times can be quite long.

For non-life threatening situations, call 111 if you’re feeling unwell. You’ll be advised over the phone regarding what to do and usually be directed to your nearest medical facility.

For an emergency,  dial 999 . An ambulance will collect you and take you to A&E (Accident & Emergency), free of charge, 24 hours a day. Or you can take yourself to A&E.

Pharmacies are absolutely everywhere. In fact, you will find standalone pharmacies like Boots as well as family-run pharmacies and even smaller branches inside large supermarkets. Pharmacists are well trained and may be able to help you with a diagnosis over the counter of a minor ailment. However, most ‘serious’ medicines – like antibiotics – will require a prescription.

There is private healthcare, but it is expensive. The plus is that there is a much shorter waiting time to be seen. If you’ve got travel insurance , check to see if you’re covered for private healthcare and if so go there. Use it – why not!

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in London.

Is London dangerous?

No, London is generally pretty safe, especially for travellers. You will have to look out for petty theft and pickpocketing, but you’re unlikely to encounter worse crimes than that. That being said, if you’re actively looking for trouble, you’ll find it.

What parts of London are not safe?

These parts of London are known to be sketchy, especially at night: – Hackney – Croydon – Brent

Is London safe at night?

While London is generally a safe place, it does pay to be cautious at night. Stick with groups instead of walking alone and opt for a taxi to get around. Trust your gut, stay away from the dodgy side streets and you should be fine.

What should you avoid in London?

To stay safe, avoid these things in London: – Don’t go around with your bag open – Don’t put your phone in your back pocket – Steer clear of drugs – Avoid dodgy looking streets after dark

London is an amazing city. Even though there are gangs, there is knife crime, gun crime – there are even terrorist attacks, its citizens tend to just get on with their lives. It’s a resilient city that got blown to smithereens during World War II and developed the famous ‘keep calm and carry on’ attitude as a result (thanks to wartime posters) that has stood the test of time.

Given the number of people who visit London yearly, the relatively low level of crimes against visitors to the capital, the lack of endemic pickpocketing and stuff like that, we’d definitely say that London is safe. It might not be “safe” in that there’s a terrorist alert at the moment, but it’s safe in that you can live a daily life securely, and visit as a tourist with basically no worries.

There is a certain level of common sense stuff you need to bear in mind though. Walking around sketchy areas into neighbourhoods that don’t feel right isn’t smart. Getting into an argument with a drunk group of men isn’t smart. Don’t forget: London is a big, world city with a large, multicultural population. People get on with each other most of the time, but sometimes they don’t. That’s life in the British capital – and you’re going to love it.

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be out of date. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sophie Steinebach

Share or save this post

I notice your “Is London safe?” story shows London is safe per definition. Like every city in the world there are areas however that definitely are a “no go “. Apparently London is an exemption. Having said that, you are right in saying “do your own research”

I was just there with my family and I have to say that in the course of 5 days we felt unsafe 3 times.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• English (EN)
• Español (ES)
• Português (BR)

Is London Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

United Kingdom : Safety by City

• Newcastle upon Tyne
• Northern Ireland
• Peterborough
• Southampton

London is the top tourist destination everyone wants to visit at least once in their life, wherever you’re from. It is one of the most important capitals in Europe, and one that contains so many activities and sights that you can’t visit them all on one trip.

It is an international capital for music, culture, universities, fashion, business and finance, and the city to be in, if you are yearning for some new experiences and a different breath of Europe.

While it is a very safe city, it should be noted that it is filled with tourists, and as such it is a great place for pickpockets and scam artist to circulate, so this is a huge issue in London and around its landmarks.

Having said that, you can relax, because London is very high on the ranking of safest and most dangerous cities in the world.

• Warnings & Dangers in London

OVERALL RISK: LOW

London is considered a very safe city. Even though there are parts that are dangerous and should be avoided, it is, for the most part, completely safe to travel to, and if you use your common sense, your trip should go smoothly.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Taxis and other forms of transportation are known to be very safe and reliable in London, as would be expected in such a developed European country.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Pickpocketing is the most common form of street crime in London. It is common to a certain degree and there are even some locations known for pickpocketing being reported there, mainly popular landmarks. Take basic precaution measures and minimize your chances of being pickpocketed.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

You can relax when it comes to natural disasters, because, apart from constant raining, there are no threats!

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

When it comes to mugging and kidnapping, London is relatively safe. However, you should be careful and avoid dangerous areas where you could get attacked.

TERRORISM RISK: HIGH

London has recently been targeted by a terrorist group and it is now publicly announced that the threat to the UK is severe.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Since London is so filled with tourists, it only makes sense that there will always be people trying to scam them. Always be cautious with people trying to distract you, help you with your luggage, or groups of people acting strange. Always check your change twice and negotiate everything in advance.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

London is mostly very safe for women to travel to. Just follow your basic common sense and general rules of things to avoid, and you should be fine.

• So... How Safe Is London Really?

London, like other popular European cities is very safe. Violent crime is rare and there is very low probability that, as a tourist, you will experience anything more than petty crime.

However, London can be dangerous in some areas at night as you can run into groups of drunken people acting strange.

Crime rates in such areas are broadly in line with the European average (though there are significant variations between different parts of London).

You should avoid wearing football shirts or showing any kind of support for any football team, because such shows of support might end violently, since some rivalries are taken very seriously in the UK.

The biggest nuisance for tourists has to be the risk of pickpockets, so you should be very careful when visiting important city landmarks and tourist areas, or crowded places such as airports, train or bus stations and public transportation.

Do not leave your valuables in plain sight or at a visible place in a locked car, and always lock the car when exiting the vehicle. Pickpockets, as well as beggars often work in teams.

Another thing to watch out for is crossing the roads, since every year tourists suffer from traffic accidents because the British people drive on the left side of the road which is highly confusing for people from around the world.

These are some of the risk tourists might encounter, but apart from petty crime and football rivalry, there are no reasons to be worried – just use your common sense and things will go smoothly.

• How Does London Compare?
• Useful Information

Member countries of the EU do not need visas to enter the United Kingdom, as well as some other countries, but there is a considerable number of countries that do. Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into the United Kingdom. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality.

The British pound is the currency in London. Keep in mind that this is one of the most expensive countries in Europe and the prices of accommodation in London are skyrocketing. You should bear in mind that you will need about 100£ per day, including accommodation, and if you're based in London - 150£.

The weather in London is mild with cool summers, and heavy rainfalls during the year. The best time to visit is during summer, from June to August.

The two busiest airports are London based (Heathrow Airport and Gatwick Airport), and the third busiest is Manchester Airport, also the busiest of the non-London airports.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to London, since it covers not only the costs of medical problems, but also theft and loss of valuables.

London Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature

United Kingdom - Safety by City

Explore london.

• 11 Things to Do in London With Kids
• Top Pet-Friendly Airbnbs in London
• Top 6 Places to Stay in London
• 5 Hotels in London to Relax While Traveling for Work
• Secrete Places to See in Notting Hill, London
• Where to Next?

65 Reviews on London

Right, I’m from london, and I can just say, it depends where you go, if ya in central, ya be good mostly but if ya get into places like shepherds Bush or white city, it’s gonna be hard not to get robbed shanked or pickpocketed. If you’re a child and you’re gonna live here, ya gonna get shanked or almost.

Don’t talk rubbish. I travel around London on a Dailey and nightly basis and I have never been attacked or mugged. Stop trying to sound street with you description of shanked … wannabe s like you make the rest of us laugh .

Just because you’ve neve been stabebd or mugged, doesn’t mean it can’t happen to someone else. It TOTALLY depends on where you go in London. Jed you’re probably just your average commuter. Stop trying to act like you know so much about London

"Anonymous" is full of BS

I’ve lived in London my entire life, and Jed is absolutely right. You’re just an idiot. WTF is wrong with Shepherds Bush or White City? Maybe like 15 or 20 years ago you had to watch yourself a little bit but even then, you’d never get “shanked” as an average person. And now? Shepherds Bush & White City are now the home of Westfield, lovely homes, lovely restaurants, etc. The previous home of the BBC, etc.

Ignore this idiot, he’s full of crap, I grew up in Highgate, and would often find myself in Shepherds Bush/White City as a kid, and also as an adult largely due to Westfield, and I’ve never had a problem, it doesn’t feel dangerous in any way & there are loads of schools around where kids young and older walk home by themselves without a fear in the world, because it’s not unsafe. I’ve had more issues in Islington, and Camden than I have there, and even they’re considered “safe” areas.

Ignore scaremongering BS, London is one of the safest cities in the world, it’s the most watched place in the world. You’re protected round the clock by high definition CCTV cameras that’re monitored 24 Hrs a day 365 days a year in central control rooms, in the extremely unlikely event that anything bad does happen, rest assured that no matter where you are in the city, you’ll have one of the best police forces in the world with you in a matter of minutes, or even seconds.

Use common sense and you’ll be fine. Ignore this dude, as Jed says, he just wants to sound hard.

London-no more dangerous than New York

Sis and I recently traveled to London for the Flower Show (bucket list) and I have to say that I found it to be just as busy and exciting as New York (where we are from). For the most part, trains on time and we walked a great deal. People were uber-helpful and I can say I enjoyed my time there. Stayed in the neighborhood of Kensington, which reminded me of neighborhoods in the upper Bronx with all the Mom and Pop styled stores. Went to White City as well and kinda perplexed about what one poster was saying (shanked? watching a few old gangster movies, huh?) and it was alright for the time we were there. Have recommended a trip there to others.

actually i live in shepherds bush and i am sometimes scared cus there are some crazy scary people here that try mess with u sometimes espec if ur a black kid

i live in sheperds bush yh its not that safe mate 4 teens murder here the past 4 months 6 shootings in london in 24 hours london is seeing its highest murder rate which has already past new yorks and double Toronto’s

Yep. Agree with that. Lived and worked in London all my life and it’s fine there. City has a ton to offer. Main issue 99.9% of tourists will have is forgetting an umbrella.

saying London is no more dangerous than New York isn’t saying much. lol….New York is pretty dangerous these days…..protesters have ramped up the danger….NY is very dangerous….I wouldn’t travel to either city. …..especially Now!!! at CHRISTMAS 2023…..

Yeah. Only terrorist attacks I know of in London are the 9/11 bombings. The Spirit of London will live on.

Something is really amiss...

that wasn’t in London. there’s been multiple incidents there. it makes me laugh that London is considered safer than Bradford, Nottingham, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow and even Aberdeen. I’ve lived all over the UK and the city I feel most unsafe in by far is London. I feel less safe there than in other cities that are considered higher risk around the world, from Almaty, Tirana, Buenos Aires to Managua, Panama City.

not really sure who came up with this list or whose judgement it is, but they’re not describing the London I know.

and comparisons to new York, with the levels of violence in the USA, are not something I would be bragging about. I know American politicians use the examples of Honduras as an argument against gun control but the murder rates in all US states are much higher than in countries that apply gun control (as opposed to having it only on non-enforced statute).

I live in a tough neighborhood that makes Shepherd’s Bush look like Disney Land.

And tourists love it because it’s infamous for Gangsters and the real deep underground art scene with independent cinema, brilliant Pubs Clubs Bars, Parks Nature reserves, restaurants, illegal Raves, street markets, vegan-friendly! And every culture and people from all over the world. And it’s still safe to walk the streets at 4 am.

Like any huge city you just keep your eyes open, oh and gang issues are always between other gangs, Come over to London and you won’t wanna leave, and hey, remember you can take the train to another great city Paris, and if you’re lucky you might get a day return for £60 if a seat sales on.

I’m a Londoner, born and bred, and I have to say that I think the city is relatively safe! Yeah you get the crazy ppl who wanna stab you but just stay clear of gang territory, just stick to the centre of town, along with places like Shoreditch and Brick Lane, and you’ll be fine!

But then again, there are stabbings in many places across town, but that is common with pretty much every other major city in this world I assume!

Afro Perspctive on UK security.

Since the early 2000s UK is becoming a slightly dangerous place that is beginning to follow US and SA Standards of crime. Only God can save the UK from those crimes. Stay alert.follow common sense.. Keep or money safe.alert the police. Appreciate what British Pound.Thank you. The UK must follow Europe and change to the right for driving purposes.

Absolute nonsense that it rains constantly. This really annoys me as a Londoner. It rains less than in Rome, Atlanta, Dallas, Miami and Buenos Aires.

Born bred Londoner. Most of the people who live here are not even from London and don’t know shit. The city is fine, just be safe and smart. Yes there is crime but if your not involved in gangs or selling drugs you should be fine. if you don’t like mix of races in one city then it’s not for you. Amazing for shopping, night life and football. Just avoid going into estates and areas you don’t know to well. Check out Westfield Shepherd’s Bush, amazing shopping centre. Harrods, New Bond Street, Knightsbridge, Sloane Square. Amazing for designer clothes.

most stabbings and shootings are innocents,your defo from essex

“Don’t worry”- you’re so full of BS, most stabbing victims are NOT innocents, they’re people who’re involved in gangs/drugs, also we don’t have many shootings in London. Shootings are mainly in Manchester/Birmingham, and even so, considering the population we have very little shootings.

Elijah is right, London is super safe, use common sense and you’ll be fine.

“Don’t worry”, you’re* so full of BS you’re* “Defo not from London”, or just a troll, or idiot.

Yes, I agree, exactly how many ‘Londoners’ were born in London????

Experience of London

Born and raised in London, left London after graduation and moved to China to live and work. I must say I feel safe in my small town in China than London. I’ve been to bigger cities like Shenzhen, Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, much better, high tech, more safer, secured, more developed than London. I would visit London for a short period of time but I would never want to live there ever again. I used to work in Leicester Square and Mayfair, sometimes it’s safe but at night time it’s scary. Beggars, drunk people and others causing problems looking for trouble, which I hate the most. It also happens in other parts of London as well, unexpected troubles happen. London is sometimes safe, but always watch your surroundings, be careful who you talk to, don’t use your phones a lot in public places, use common sense, and most importantly be safe!

London is unsafe. Forget “drunks” its coke heads in bars and gangs waiting to rob you. If you’re young and white you’ll get robbed. If you’re young and black you’ll probably get stabbed. Nothing racist with the stabbings you just ain’t gonna be “from the endz fam” I used to go London at least once a month and it used to be safe. Now I don’t ever go out in London. If you’re a tourist forget London. There are better place with less diversity.

I agree 100% with everything said above.

Totally agree

2019 i agree london is third world crime ridden stain ..

That is complete bullshit. You go to London once a month, so you clearly have no idea what you are talking about and you are basing your point of view from what you hear on the news, which generally focuses on negative stories. I live in London and have worked in every borough and I can say I have never felt unsafe. If you don’t look for trouble you generally will not find yourself in trouble. Visit London people it’s a fantastic City with so much to see and so much diversity!

Nice city but crime out of control

Sadly agree with what your saying. Also born and bread Londoner who moved out 2019 after being robbed myself and crime rates out of Control.

Stabbing and rape

It is very dangerous to be in London. Rapes and stabbing is very common and it happens almost every day. Every 10 min or so you can hear police siren – that means it is very dangerous. Drug dealers are everywhere and drug users as well. People are very strange and no one on the street would offer you any help if something bad would happen to you. It is very bad.

Forms response chart. Question title: What Wood Would You Make Your Speaker Out Of?. Number of responses: 2 responses.

The police sirens may mean that it is small things, like someone who has fallen down a stair, it may be ambulances, you just need a bit of local knowledge to not go to the bad parts. Rape is not common, and stabbing is not, if you know where to go. It is only gangland related, not some random person.

Knives everywhere

There was a fight outside my window involving knives and timber beams (this is leafy green Fulham mind you, and no I do not live in the estates).

Police came, had a chat with them and were on their merry way. Did not even take away their weapons nor did they search them.

This should give you the idea how safe you should feel.

I live in leafy and safe Fulham, 20 min walking distance from Olympia Centre.

I do not live in the estates. I live on a quiet cul-de-sac type residential street.

Brutes fighting on early morning with knives right under my window. Police comes, has a 5 minute chit chat with them and go on their merry way. No search for weapons, no nothing. They continued their fight 20 minutes later after police went away.

This should give you an idea how safe London is, if this kind of stuff can happen in a ‘rich’ neighbourhood.

Total made up bollocks.

ye tru dont wanna get chefed by k9

Not Safe, try areas in Berkshire

I am not a Londoner but I visit the place often. I would reccomend staying out of East London. It’s unsafe and there are a lot of stabbings. I would suggest the area around Waterloo station. It’s a lot safer than other places. If you go on the tube be savvy and make sure you hold purses or wallets securely. There are many pickpocketers on the London underground. Terrorism threat is very high and has been increasingly becoming worse. If you see anything suspicious, report it and don’t investigate. I wouldn’t reccomend teenagers below 16 coming here on their own.

Its changed

IM born and bread in London…All i can say that it has changed. As an older person who is very street wise…..the younger generation are in danger constantly.London is not a safe place to live…

Enoch knew what was coming

I was BORN in London in 1950. I lived there for over 40 years. I drove buses and minicabs in London. It WAS the place to be in the 60’s, 70’s & 80’s. Mod’s and flower power, etc.

Now it is a sh**hole. Successive governments have allowed people into the UK who have totally different values on human life. These people have remained in the big cities in the UK and turned them into dangerous places. Perfectly fine if you turn a blind eye to all the crap around you – but if you are a decent person who wants to do the right thing, you will not last a day. Crime is rife. Virtually every motorbike and car I owned, was damaged or stolen. I now live in Devon, where most smaller towns do not even have a police station – because they do not need one!!! I cannot understand why anybody on this planet would want to take a holiday in London. You want your bumps felt!! I will never return to the city of my birth because the town has been hijacked by all the WRONG people. Enoch Powell has been proved right!! Nuff said………..

Football shirts?

I live in London and I don’t agree with the football shirts thing! I’ve seen so many people walking around in different football shirts, lots that aren’t British teams, like Junventus, PSG, Real Madrid etc and nobody seems to turn a blind eye. I don’t think people care do they?

Yeah I thought this was very odd, you see different football shirts all the time! Might have a problem if you wear a rival top near a rival stadium on a matchday… but that’d be the same wherever you went. I live in a West Ham area and have walked through it with an Arsenal top countless times, never had a problem.

Tourist stick to tourism areas

Central London, Westminster etc, is relatively safe. It has is pitfalls as does any other major city on the planet. As long as you keep your wits about you you would be unlucky to suffer anything other than petty crime if anything at all If travelling outside of central then you could run into problems. East London is becoming increasingly dangerous, particularly if you wonder off the beaten track at night. My advice to any tourist would be to stick to the tourist areas and you should have a good time. There’s nothing for you to see on the estates any way so you have no need to be there

sounds like a good plan

In May I took a trip to London. We stayed in a hotel near Waterloo station. As a young adult and all the hysteria on the news I was quite anxious on the first night. We were walking near the station and with all the lights it lit the city up. It gave people a better view of their surroundings. This put me at ease and I have grown to love London.

London born and raised (East End) immigrated back to parents country(Mediterranean). Come to London every two years (holiday ) Love London ,feel safe place like any city ‘ just use common sense and have a good time ”if you see trouble ! just cross the road and mind your own business .As they say if you stick to tourist areas no problem just watch out for pick pocketing mainly in tube stations and trains .Ps ”There is no City 100 percent safe in the World.

London is open to all.

As a born and bred Londoner it’s actually quite funny to read some of these reviews. I’m 53, grew up in the East End and have lived in Camden for the last 25 years. Never been mugged, had my pocket picked, never seen a stabbing or heard a single gun go off. London is an extremely safe city to visit so please don’t worry about coming here. The secret of travelling safely ANYWHERE (not just in London) is to look confident and hold your head high. If you don’t want to be a victim, try not to look like one. Happy travelling.

Just saw a guy today running with a 10 inch knife in the middle of the road in Wandsworth, as if it was a perfectly normal thing to do. Nothing special, fun place to live. Police was out there everywhere in 2 minutes tough, so to me it seems they are trying to do their best. I would rather go to the british countryside, cuz it is 100000x safer and there are some nice picturesque places 🙂 London = Mordor

Is Crawley area safe especially now with the Christmas market

HELLO!!! SUMMER BE MORE LIKE 38C, people are shocked how hot it gets in London, and hey we’ve great outdoor swimming pools too 😊 So come over for a Pint 🍻

traveling to London this summer.

What is the safest area to stay for holiday?

peckham, brixton and lewisham recommend you croydon as well

Nah tottenham is the place to go. But from personal experience peckham is nice aswell.

please don’t go to the areas in the above comments 🙁 they were being sarcastic. Just don’t go to london, fly there, and come to Dorset/Devon.

Everywhere is Safe

There’s a lot of unfounded scaremongering on here. There are virtually no unsafe places to stay in London. Any potential crime you might experience as a visitor would be tourist-aimed crime such as pick-pocketing, bag-snatching scams etc – or fights that break out in pubs and bars. Both types of crime are really avoidable if you are sensible and London nightlife venues have very effective and well regulated security. Most hotels are in the central districts of West End and the City, plus immediately surrounding areas. It’s not a question of where is safe, as everywhere is, but if you are looking for upmarket, then Mayfair and Knightsbridge are smart areas although v expensive.

The safest and most suitable areas for a vacation are; South kensington, Shoreditch, Mayfair, Kensington and pretty much anywhere in central london zone 1 will be safe to stay in. You can easily commute to artistic areas such as Brixton , Notting Hill and Hackney which are neighbourhoods of interest, otherside pretty much all the attractions are based in central London and you will have a great and safe time there.

Its not dat deep

London isnt dangerous you just have to be smart. I was born in Camberwell but den moved to Fulham and I go to school in Sheperds Bush. It isn’t that deep just be smart, if you are a like 14 or something walk around with youre friends dont walk alone and dont carry expensive stuff around with you. And all dis gang stuff people are talking about as long as you dont get involved you are fine.

London ghetto's

Shepherd’s Bush/White city. Mate they’re tame compared to Brixton, Camberwell, Croydon etc. You need to get out a little more. West London (which Shepherd’s Bush/White city is in) is the affluent area of London, go south east or north east. No one even speaks English is these slums.

LOL, a lot of people exaggerating some not enough Ldn is fine as a tourist, especially in central London.

It’s like the safest part of ldn Shepherds bush white city Northolt ofc there’s gms there but West ldn its self is the nice and wealthiest part yh theirs a rise in knife crime and a lot more civilians are getting killed mainly because if youre a teen and wearing a tracksuit you’re just subject to getting g checked but again this isn’t an everyday thing and not something that happens in places u would go sightseeing if you’re a tourist sightseeing and in a hotel or whatever you’re most likely gonna be in central and all the suburban places which any1 could walk through with 0 trouble I assume u wouldn’t be on any estates so u wouldn’t even witness any of the day to day stuff that happens Hackney Tottenham Brixton Lewisham Peckham Newham there is so many places where there are gang activity too many boroughs to name but these days with gentrification there are nice parts next to the bad parts.

Kensington Chelsea fulham wembley places like that are the upper class places nothing will ever happen there truthfully if youre an easy lookin tourist with the cameras out loads of luggage bum bags the worst thing that will honestly happened to u is getting pickpocketed on the tube or getting scammed as for the “shanked” the guy above was talkin about no1s blindly going out and stabbing tourists just for the sake of it think of it as New york bad parts and good but theirs almost no reason to go to the bad parts unless u have family cos theirs nothing to do there as for the rape thats bs no1s just gettin taken down an alley and raped as for the drunkens thats the same for everywhere and for the constant sires thats the same for evey busy major city and yh I think London is the most watched City in the world in terms of surveillance personally Iv’e only ever witnessed 1 thing happen to a tourist that was a few months ago in JD sports in Barking seems some1 pushed and ran of with this ladys bag had loads of valuables in it, I felt so bad for her she was crying and everything had to catch a flight in a few hours so couldnt file a report. I think she was Swedish or something but this is something that would only happen in a place like Barking.

Remember Real England is outside of London.

What I can say is, fly into London if you have to, but then go out of London to experience real England. London is a boring global city, that could nearly be any other mutlicultural…. “Utopia:… save for a few nice old buildings when it wasn’t “culturally enriched”. If you must go, then only go for a few days, see the museums, and a few historic sites. Always avoid East London, and especially the following areas and even more if you have an American accent(Tower Hamlets, Hackney, Islington, Tottenham). And many more, if you get off the tube and it looks like a …diverse… area, turn around, get back on the tube and forget whatever you had planned to do there. So, after avoiding all those things and seeing the museums- which are worth going to. Then head out of London like a bullet, I’d recommend Dorset, Devon, Hampshire, Bath E.t.c. just avoid, Leicester, Birmingham, Luton, Manchester, Bradford, Slough. It is cheaper for you outside of London, and much nicer, you’ll see real England, and the people are friendlier and safer. Top tip, Although the last census was nearly a decade ago, use wikipedia, go to the demographics part of any city you are visiting and make up your mind that way.

Stay away if you don’t want to be mugged, stabbed or blown up

Londonistan is no longer English and is highly dangerous in high immigrant areas . Unfortunately most of our major cities are turning into immigrant, crime ridden hellholes

London was a great city before

But then after sadiq Khan elected things changed for the worse crime has had a massive increase and many areas are turning into shithole at a fast rate which is very unfortunate and sad as a Londoner I used to love this city now I hate it I want to move out of London to somewhere else in the UK or even abroad when I have the money to do so

The crime in London is at its highest in years it is unsafe for women young children and elderly to walk on street at night or alleyway any time

People act like the problem doesn’t exist but when you hear of people being raped or killed every day sometimes multiple times you cannot ignore that

London is the shame of the country many people from elsewhere in the country have gone off visiting because of the crime rate they see what is happening but most people here either don’t know or are stupid. Stupid enough to re elect sadiq Khan AGAIN

Whether London will recover from this I don’t know all I know is I am moving out of the city when possible this is not the London I grew up with and if I have kids in the future I would not want them to grow up in this sort of environment

If you are a tourist just stay in the central areas thats were all the museums and moments are don’t go into the suburbs at all nothing interesting just houses apartments and crime

NY is safer these days

Keep your wits about you wherever you go

I’m from Barking myself, although I now live in Norfolk. I am reading these comments about London and certainly agree that it is a city with potential dangers as well as the more joyful aspects of cities. It may shock those of you that I don’t always feel safe venturing out into Norwich late in the day, although it’s smaller in comparison, it’s a very sad reflection of the times and crime seems to be part and parcel of everyday society, be it whether you live in a town, city or village. BE STREETWISE AND ALWAYS KEEP YOUR WITS ABOUT YOU, avoid anything or anyone that could lead you down a dangerous road, that way you should be ok!

Its quite boring, and there is a risk of cross contamination in foods. The only good thing is that there is good toys and stuff.

Super safe for a city of its size

There are no true no go areas, though I wouldn’t advise visiting estates in the suburbs you don’t know. Even the places named above as awful have some cracking, bars, restaurants and locals. I’ve lived here for 40 years and have not been mugged, or had violence threatened though of course these things can happen. Visit it’s truly one of best cities in world, still pretty expensive though!

Uber Driver

Im a Uber driver so iv seen enough of London to know your safe to explore on foot the main roads in central london with out any problems you won’t get stabbed. Common crimes I see are european street gambling scams and pickpocketing which is like any other city in Europe. But I wouldn’t go walking around with a luxury watch or large amounts of designer shopping bags. When it come to outside London your fine in the busy areas but there are some areas that have gang war violence if your not involved you won’t get stabbed I drive in and out of different parts of London all the time it’s no problem. otherwise your best option is getting a Uber 😅

We recently were on our holiday to London, for like 5 days and it was quite fine. There are CCTV cameras and police virtually everywhere, so is at safe as it gets. Still, the only real risk are pickpockets.

I don't know how people feel safe in London.

I’ve lived all over the UK, including in London, and have travelled the world. I don’t know how anyone can argue London is safe: it is the only capital city where I witnessed violence every day I was there.

There’s lots to love about the city, but my experience is that it’s not a safe city: corruption by the police and certain politicians is rife: if you’re white or middle class and from SW England then it’s almost like your above the law.

But my cousin, Irish working class female, has been regularly beaten by police and the was subject to death threats by officers when the police were prosecuted because her friend filmed it.

I have been followed after leaving a gay pub by gangs who tried to mug me. several friends have been beaten for being gay, trans, black, Scottish or Asian. One Welsh friend was beaten after he spoke Welsh to someone on the phone by a white middle classed man who got away with it because my friend was “speaking foreign”.

There are only 2 cities I’ve visited where I’ve felt more unsafe than in London: Marrakech and Atlanta.

Share Your Experience Cancel reply

Your Review

Title of your review

Article Contents

• London : Safety by City
• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

Popular Destinations

Safety Index

Recent reviews & comments.

• Thatcher Maxwell on Duluth
• Simon Schwartz on Duluth
• Kataleya Love on Duluth
• Ashton Randall on Duluth
• Ashley Warren on North Little Rock

Popular US States

• Pennsylvania

Is London Safe to Visit? Safety Tips for All Travelers [2024]

London, England in the United Kingdom is one of the most famous and recognizable cities worldwide, attracting millions of travelers every year. In this post w review London's safety for solo travelers & helpful safety tips for all travelers to know!

It is easy to get distracted and feel out of place when you travel somewhere new which can be particularly relevant in big cities worldwide. While being distracted might mean you take a wrong turn somewhere, it can also mean you might fall victim to common scam tactics or even theft while traveling.

We've already discussed whether  Paris is a safe city , but what about another famous European capital just across the Channel? London is a big, bustling city full of people year-round, but is it safe?

Is it safe to travel to London?

If you're thinking about traveling to London, the first thing you should know is that it's big. With over 8 million people spread out over 1,500 km

The other thing to know is that London is a sprawling city. Made up of 32 boroughs, you could find yourself in areas of London with different vibes and different levels of safety. Due to its size, you'll sometimes find yourself in large crowds when you'll need to be aware of your surroundings, and you may feel overwhelmed by people. 

Overall, London is a statistically safe place to travel. Although London is still home to more violent crimes, the most common crimes are opportunistic crimes. According to the  Crime Rate Index , the United Kingdom ranks 64th globally for crime rates. As London is the largest city in the country, it's not surprising that it would have higher crime rates than other, smaller cities. 

Where should I avoid in London?

While there are plenty of beautiful and amazing places to visit in London, if safety is a priority for you, there are some parts you may wish to avoid. Much of London is considered safe, and you're likely to feel the same way as you wander around, but as tourists frequent some areas, they can be hot spots for theft.

Even though you may not wish to avoid them completely, be extra vigilant and aware of your surroundings when visiting popular tourist destinations like Leicester Square, Piccadilly Circus, or even walking down Oxford Street. These are some of the areas where pickpocketing can be rife.

Is London safe at night?

By night, as by day, much of London is safe, but as the sun sets, it's also essential to be more aware of your surroundings and remain on well-lit streets.

Areas in central London such as the West End or South Bank stay well-lit until the early hours and will allow you to feel more safe navigating in the dark. However, some areas like Camden and Shoreditch don't stay lit in the same way. With many dark, un-lit alleys, these areas should be navigated with caution at night. 

One element that helps London be safer at night is night public transport. Night buses run seven days a week, and there are night tube and overground services on select lines running through the night on Friday and Saturday nights. This means that you can party until the early hours on the weekend and still have a reliable way to get home. 

Areas outside of central London, such as Elephant & Castle, Lewisham, and Peckham, can have higher crime rates, and this statistic remains true at night. These areas, however, don't tend to have loads of tourist things to view, but it's important to keep them in mind when deciding where to go at night. 

Another thing to be aware of at night in London (and the UK) is the drinking culture. Especially during the summer, pubs, clubs, and bars can be very crowded, and the later into the night you go, the more alcohol everyone has consumed. Late-night journeys back to your accommodation can therefore be rowdy and unsafe. 

Safe places to stay in London

If you're looking to stay in a safe place in London, sticking to central London is the way to go.

Areas like Russell Square, King's Cross, South Kensington, Notting Hill, or even Westminster are well-lit, well-connected parts of the city. They are popular with tourists, but they're easy to access both on foot and by public transport, while also allowing you to be near the must-see spots of London. 

If you're still feeling overwhelmed trying to find a place to stay in London, check out what we ranked as the  top five hostels in London ! We highly recommend  Wombat's City Hostel . Located just next to Tower Bridge and the Tower of London, you're in a well-connected area and on a safe street for any late-night returns. 

Is London dangerous for tourists?

When traveling to any new place, you're usually at a disadvantage compared to locals because you do not know your way around and may potentially stick out in a crowd. This could put you at risk for pickpocketing, mugging, or scams directed at tourists.

When talking about safety in London, terrorism and knife crime are often mentioned. The average Londoner goes about their day with little to no thoughts about terrorism, and as tourists, you can rest assured that if they aren't concerned, you don't need to be either.

You may notice precautions in place like barriers on bridges or limited bins in some areas, but there should be little impact on your travels. While knife crime statistics have risen in recent years, these tend to be isolated to certain areas of London and can be gang-related, so it's unlikely to impact tourists. 

Tips for staying safe in London

To help make your time in London safer and go smoothly, here are some nice tips to make you feel more at ease:

• Always know where your purse/bag/backpack is. Never leave it unattended, and always place bags between your legs at restaurants
• Avoid putting your phone in your back pocket
• Be aware of any events during your visit (like Notting Hill Carnival, any Royal celebrations, etc.)
• Plan your routes in advance
• Blend in (use your phone to map yourself rather than a paper map)

Is London safe for solo travelers?

Since London is a safe place to travel, it is especially for solo travelers. However, as you're traveling alone, you need to be extra cautious and vigilant with your things when you're out and about. You'll want to always keep hold of your belongings and be mindful of who you ask me to take your picture with if you want some solo pics for your Instagram grid. 

When you're getting around London, stick to the lower level of the buses to be closer to the driver and other passengers, especially at night. It also means you're closer to the exit for when your stop comes or if you no longer wish to remain on the bus.

Train stations can also be crowded, so be aware of potentially crowded hours if you're headed on a  day trip  or passing through. 

Keep calm and head to London!

The best part of traveling is being open and free while you explore new destinations. Don’t let the fear of being a part of a crime ruin your trip! All you have to do is remember to stay alert and cautious. While you're planning, check out our guide to 14 Iconic London Landmarks you must see on your next trip!

If you're thinking about heading to London for your next trip, use Pilot to better help you plan your trips!

Disclosure : Pilot is supported by our community. We may earn a small commission fee with affiliate links on our website. All reviews and recommendations are independent and do not reflect the official view of Pilot.

Satisfy your wanderlust

Get Pilot. The travel planner that takes fun and convenience to a whole other level. Try it out yourself.

Trending Travel Stories

Discover new places and be inspired by stories from our traveller community.

Related Travel Guides

London Landmarks: 14 iconic palaces & buildings you can't miss!

5 Best hostels in London 2024: Perfect Stays for All Traveler!

Eat at the 15 best restaurants in London right now!

Make the most of every trip.

You won’t want to plan trips any other way!

The trip planner that puts everything in one place, making planning your trip easier, quicker, and more fun.

London Travel Safety Guide for 2024

You want to visit London, the greenest city in the world , home to Big Ben, the Tate Modern, and the London Eye, but first, you need to know—how safe is this cosmopolitan capital?

The good news is that the capital is generally safe. What do you mean ‘generally’? You ask, clutching your purse.

Stick with us for the most useful safety tips, recommendations of what areas to visit and what areas to avoid, what you can expect in terms of police presence, and more. Learn just how street-smart you need to be in London to navigate potential dangers and enjoy your vacation free of worries.

Is London Safe?

London is relatively safe, especially for a big city. According to The Economist , London is the fifteenth safest city globally – much safer than other tourist hotspots like Paris , Milan, and Rome.

Here’s a quick rundown of London’s safety status:

• The most common crime in London is anti-social behavior
• Westminster is the most dangerous neighborhood, whereas the City of London (the administrative district) is the safest
• London had a lower homicide rate than 120 of the biggest US cities
• You’ll see plenty of helpful police officers around London – about 34,868 of them were spread across the capital in 2022
• Public transport is safe, as long as you keep an eye on your belongings
• The UK medical system is one of the largest and best both in quality and providing universal health care
• The main natural and environmental concerns are storms, floods, heat waves, and bad air quality

Travel Advisory for London

According to travel advisories issued by the United States and Canada , London falls into the level 2 safety category – ‘Exercise Increased Caution’.

The US State Department warns tourists about the possibility of terrorist attacks, mentioning potential targets like tourist spots, transportation hubs, markets, hotels, and more. They emphasize that terrorists might strike with little or no warning.

Similarly, the Canadian travel advisory raises concerns regarding terrorism, but mostly focuses on common, petty crimes such as pickpocketing, purse snatching, and cellphone theft in certain tourist areas of London.

Keep in mind that these advisories apply to the entire United Kingdom, but as London is the capital, it’s more susceptible to some of these crimes. So yes, the higher-ups say it’s safe to visit London, but they also want you to proceed with caution and be ready for anything.

A Comprehensive Look at London Crime Rates

The most common crime in London is antisocial behavior (consumption of illegal substances, illegal raves, drinking, urinating, defecating).

In 2019, London had a lower homicide rate than 120 of the biggest U.S. cities, at just 1.9 per 100,000 residents.

Surprisingly, possession of weapons is the least common crime , which is good news and probably why violent crimes like homicides are very rare.

In terms of neighborhoods, Westminster is considered the most dangerous place area in London, followed by Camden, Newham, Southwark, and Lambeth.

Conversely, the safest neighborhood is the City of London, also known as just “the City” or “Square Mile,” followed by Kingston upon Thames, Richmond upon Thames, Sutton, and Merton. So, when you’re exploring London, gravitate towards the safer districts to decrease the chances of getting into trouble.

Here are some hard numbers to help you get a better understanding of crime stats in London.

London Crime Map

Police presence in london.

You’ll find a substantial number of helpful police officers around London. In fact, the number of police officers in London has reached an all-time high .

In 2022, there were 34,868 police officers in London, an increase of 1,065 officers since 2011. The majority, around 33,984, work for the Metropolitan Police Service, responsible for policing most parts of the UK capital. Additionally, the City of London Police, with a total of 884 police officers, maintains peace and order in the historical center of the city.

During the summer of 2023 , in response to anti-social behavior reports, more police officers moved in on parks and green spaces in London. The Metropolitan Police also has an official website where tourists and residents can report crimes and check out safety tips for their visit to London. So, you can count on a visible police presence and resources to help ensure your safety in the city.

Public Transportation Safety in London

London’s public transport is generally safe, with millions of passengers traveling daily , and very few witnessing or falling victim to crime. There’s a team of over 2,000 officers watching over the transport network, making sure things are safe for everyone.

However, while the authorities do their part, passengers should also take care of their safety. Never leave your belongings unattended during your journey. Keep bags closed, hide your phone, and sit on the first floor at night, so you’re closer to an exit in case of any concerns.

Medical Care Quality in London

The NHS (National Health Service) is the United Kingdom’s universal healthcare system. It is in charge of everything health-related in the country and is one of the largest health networks in the world, assisting approximately a million people every 36 hours . Overall, the NHS offers an excellent standard of healthcare , coming in 10th in the 2021 World Index of Health Innovation . It’s also well-respected — in the UK, people rank it as the number one thing they’re most proud of.

One thing to note: There might be a bit of a wait in the emergency room or for scheduled appointments. If you want to save some time on your limited days there, you can also consider going to private medical centers in London.

Here are some of the most well-known healthcare establishments in London:

• Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children (GOSH)
• The Royal Brompton & Harefield Hospitals Specialist Care
• The Wellington Hospital
• The London Clinic
• The Cleveland Clinic
• King Edward VII’s Hospital
• The Portland Hospital
• The Queen Square Private Hospital
• The Princess Grace Hospital
• The London Welbeck Hospital
• The Lister Hospital
• The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital
• The Harley Street Dermal Clinic
• The Blackheath Hospital
• London Bridge Hospital
• Cromwell Hospital
• Highgate Private Hospital
• Priory Hospital London
• St Anthony’s Hospital
• The Hendon Hospital
• The Weymouth Street Hospital

Is It Safe to Travel Solo in London?

London is generally a safe destination for solo travelers, thanks to its efficient public transportation system and significant police presence. However, according to Numbeo statistics , London isn’t the safest place for nighttime solo strolls, particularly in high-crime areas. So, while enjoying a solo trip in London is possible, staying vigilant is key, especially after nightfall.

Is It Safe to Travel to London as a Family?

As long as you stick to family-friendly spaces and attractions, London is among the safest cities for families. A must-visit attraction is the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio tour—your kids will be left in awe! Even if you (rightfully) think that the movies got nowhere near the quality, heart, and charm of the books, the sets are still pretty cool.

However, just like in any destination, it’s important to be cautious . Keep an eye on your children, especially in crowded places or when using public transport. It’s also a good idea to stick together during your adventures and plan only daytime excursions—not only should your kids get a good night’s rest, but also the city is less safe at night.

Perils of Nature: The Risk of Natural Disasters in London

London doesn’t experience major natural disasters like earthquakes or hurricanes , but the capital has its own quirky weather and environmental hiccups— storms, floods, heatwaves, and low air quality.

London experiences fairly consistent rainfall throughout the year, with an average of 11 to 15 rainy days each month. The months of November and August typically see the highest rainfall, while March and April are the sunniest.

Frequent rain sometimes brings an occasional storm. Although not as severe as hurricanes, the storms’ heavy winds and rainfall can still disrupt your plans, forcing you to reorganize activities and transportation, while causing delays. Follow the latest weather reports regarding the London area and try to plan ahead. If there’s a storm brewing, what better way to spend the day than inside one of London’s many museums?

Intense storms can lead to localized flooding, especially following heavy and prolonged rainfall. In 2021 , for instance, a month’s worth of rain fell in only one day.

This amount of rainfall can lead to evacuations, temporary closure of the London Underground stations, and even the shutdown of businesses near the River Thames. In times of floods, you can’t do much about it except be patient and avoid traveling to the flooded areas. Book rooms at a hotel that’s further from the river so you won’t run the risk of getting evacuated.

London has been experiencing more intense heat waves , similar to Barcelona , New York  , and other urban areas affected by climate change. In 2023, the highest heat wave reached 91ºF (33ºC) in London. However, in July 2022, temperatures soared above 104ºF (40°C), marking it the hottest day ever recorded in the country.

The extreme heat can make London quite uncomfortable. If you’re out during the hottest hours, it’s easy to feel dizzy or, in severe cases, get a heatstroke. Drink plenty of water, use sunscreen, and take breaks in the shade to stay safe.

Air Quality Issues

The city’s large size, dense roads, and tall buildings make central London one of the most polluted places in the country. The capital tends to be the most polluted when there’s light wind, clear skies, and a lower chance of rain.

On those bad air quality days, you might experience a sore throat and a headache . Plus, you won’t have the best visibility to witness what the city has to offer. Still, you can have a great time in London when the air quality is low—just limit your adventures to indoor venues like malls, museums, restaurants, and cinemas. Track London’s air quality in real time and avoid the most affected neighborhoods.

Beware the Silent Threat: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning in London

Carbon monoxide (CO) forms when fuels don’t burn properly. In homes, it could leak from faulty water heaters, furnaces, boilers, fireplaces, stoves, and ovens If CO enters your bloodstream, it stops your blood from carrying oxygen , which could lead to loss of consciousness, nausea, headache, etc., or, in severe cases, be fatal.

The UK records around 50 fatalities and hundreds of injuries every year due to carbon monoxide. In 2023, London had a carbon monoxide leak at a hotel in Kensington. It affected many people, and some had to go to the hospital.

When you’re in London, it’s a good idea to ask the hotel staff if they have carbon monoxide detectors in their rooms. These gadgets check the air quality and let you know if there’s a dangerous gas leak. For added safety, you can carry a portable carbon monoxide detector .

London Weather Patterns: What to Expect

London’s weather can be quite varied. In general, summers are short, warm, and cloud-free though still somewhat rainy. Winters are long, chilly, and often overcast.

The warm season, from June to September, sees July as the hottest month, with highs averaging 73°F (22°C) and lows averaging 59°F (15°C). The cooler period spans from November to March, with February as the coldest month, averaging 39°F (3.8°C) lows and 48°F (8.8°C) highs.

In London, the skies clear up between April and October, peaking in July, while December tends to be quite a bit cloudier. Rain showers are a year-round affair in London, with October seeing the most rain, around 2.2 inches (55.88mm), and March seeing the least, about 1.2 inches (30.48mm).

Days vary a lot in length over the year. The shortest day in 2023 is December 22, with just 7 hours and 50 minutes of daylight, while June 21 brings the longest day, with 16 hours and 39 minutes of daylight.

Monthly Average Temperatures in London

When is the best time to visit london.

The best time to visit London is typically from June to September, as the weather is fantastic, and there are lots of outdoor activities to enjoy. However, London has something to offer year-round, so you’ll have a great time no matter when you visit.

Here’s what each period has to offer:

Best Weather (June to September): Summer brings the warmest temperatures in London. July is the hottest month with the clearest skies. This is one of the busiest tourist seasons in London, so be ready for bigger crowds and higher prices.

Best Prices (January, February, March): London prices drop in the period between the winter holidays and Easter break. This is when you’ll find the best deals on hotels, flights, and city tours.

Low Crowds (January, February, March, April, and November):   Around the winter holidays and Easter, the city is quieter. Perfect for checking out the hotspots without dealing with the usual crowds.

How to Stay Safe in London

We promised to tell you just how street-smart you need to be in London:

• Use navigation apps like Citymapper to get around
• Pick hotels with good reputations and positive reviews, and consider using Booking or Airbnb
• Only hail black cabs on the street or consider taxi apps like MyTaxi
• Check tube schedules as not all lines run 24/7
• Watch out for fake charities asking for money—legitimate charity collectors in the UK carry a permit and registration number
• Purchase tickets for London concerts and events from online platforms, not sellers at outside venues
• Be careful how use use your phone when you walk along the pavement, as moped thieves may snatch it from you
• Hit ATMs in banks or malls where there’s security around
• If you catch the bus at night, choose a seat downstairs
• Explore the city with a tour group rather than alone, especially at night and especially if traveling to the dodgier parts of town
• It’s a good idea to carry pepper spray
• Watch your drink being made
• “Arm” your kids with bracelets bearing their name and your contact number
• Invest in a GPS locator, like Apple AirTags, and attach them to your kids’ clothes or backpacks

Emergency Numbers

• Police, fire, and ambulance: 112 or 999
• Non-urgent matters: 101

London is generally safe at night. Most of central London is well-lit, and public transport runs day and night. The only places to be cautious about at night are the parks, and of course, neighborhoods with higher crime rates. Numbeo statistics suggest that it’s not entirely safe to walk alone in London at night, so keep that in mind. If you’re planning to enjoy the city’s bustling nightlife, opt for going out with a trustworthy companion or group. If that’s not possible, limit your adventures to the daytime.

London has removed all COVID-19 restrictions , so wearing a mask, submitting a negative test, or submitting proof of vaccine is no longer required. Still, it’s advisable to maintain practices like social distancing and regular handwashing. If you do get sick before your trip – from COVID or the regular flu – it’s best to postpone. Walking around with a viral infection could exacerbate your condition as well as make others sick.

London tap water is safe for drinking . British tap water is ranked among the best globally, with a staggering 99.96% quality rating by Discover Water . Plus, the Drinking Water Inspectorate frequently checks its cleanliness and drinking safety.

Double-Decker Buses, Sherlock Holmes, Black Cabs, Big Ben, Royal Guard… Here We Come!

Enjoy all that London has to offer now that it’s relatively safe – so long as you keep your wits about you.

This bustling capital is the fifteenth safest city in the world. Yet, travelers should keep an eye on petty crimes like pickpocketing and antisocial behavior.

Our concluding advice? Stay street-smart, whether you’re exploring the lively streets or the lush parks. Avoid dangerous neighborhoods and dodgy alleyways, carry pepper spray if necessary, and if going out at night – stick to your group. The well-prepared police force and top-notch medical system—that you’ll hopefully never need—should keep your mind at ease!

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Everything you need to know before you go to London in 2024

Mar 10, 2024 • 7 min read

Make the most of your trip to London with these expert tips © FilippoBacci / Getty Images

Even though I was born and raised in London, I’ve been caught out without a brolly (umbrella) in the rain countless times. I’ve felt the scorn of others when not noticing there’s a queue, and I’ve made the costly error of driving into the city. But as a local, I’ve made these mistakes so you don’t have to; I hope my experience and top tips help inspire a smooth and memorable trip to the UK capital.

1. Know your Tube etiquette

One easy way to annoy commuters is to not follow these very easy rules when traveling around on London’s Underground. Get your ticket, bank card or smart phone ready before you reach the ticket barriers so you don’t create a queue. Stand on the right when using escalators so passengers wanting to walk can pass. Let passengers off the train first (stand to either the right or left of the doors) before you board. Offer your seat to someone who may need it more, such as a pregnant person, an elderly person, someone who is disabled and so on. And definitely don't try to strike up conversations with the locals (if you want to blend in). 

2. Skip the car

London ’s roads are small, its traffic is chaotic, and there’s hardly anywhere to park. Plus, you’ll be charged for driving your car in to the center of London – the congestion charge is £15 a day, while the separate ULEZ charge starts from £12.50 and only certain energy efficient or electric cars are exempt. The best way to get around is on public transport (although check on the TFL website or app for information on industrial action and weekend engineering works). Use the Tube, hop on a bus, or rent a bike or e-bike if in the center of the city; cycle maps, highlighting designated paths for bikes, can be downloaded online.

3. Bring layers (and a raincoat)

London’s weather is changeable – temperatures have been known to rise and fall by 20°C in a matter of days. Showers can happen any time of year so pack a brolly (umbrella) or raincoat in your day bag and wear layers that you can easily take off. In summer, always carry a bottle of water on the Tube (the deep tunnels were built before air-conditioning). And while the climate may be mercurial, don’t let bad weather put you off going about your day – simply switch to more indoor-based activities, there are hundreds of them to choose from.

4. Opt for comfort over fashion when it comes to shoes

Most people cover a lot of ground when exploring London, plus different terrains: grass in the many green spaces, long Tube escalators, slippery pavements and even cobblestones. Museums require leg work, as do bridges, boats and parks. Heels are pretty pointless in London, unless you are getting a door-to-door cab to a venue. 

5. Make reservations for top restaurants

While there are plenty of terrific places to eat that welcome walk-ins (although be prepared to queue for the best joints), many of the best restaurants are booked up weeks in advance, especially new ones or those run by celebrity chefs. More restaurants have adopted booking policies and deposits since the pandemic, so if you’re looking for a unique dining experience, you will need to book ahead.

6. Do as the Londoners do and go to a supper club

Embed yourself in London life with a dinner party with locals; a supper club is a superb way to try home-cooked local food from London’s diverse community. These are locally run endeavors, taking place in people’s homes or taking over whole restaurants – try The Bridge Club  serving British eats made with French cooking techniques in South London, Dinner Ladies putting on immersive food experiences, or Indian street food run out of local chef Dhruv Mittal’s flat.

7. Know how to order at a pub

There are unspoken rules when visiting a pub. One person – not a whole group – should go to the bar. Stand anywhere and wait your turn. If someone was waiting before you, it’s polite to signal for the bar staff to serve them first if they come over to you. When you go back to your table with the drinks, you just bought "a round". Now everyone at the table owes you a drink throughout the evening, each person has a turn at buying a round. Last orders are when the bell rings, and from this moment you have 20 minutes to finish your drink.

8. Go to a football game

Football rivalries run high in the city, with 17 football clubs, including seven Premier League teams and four Women’s Super League Teams. Giant temples to "The Beautiful Game" sit around London and are great places to feel the collective energy of the city, as locals congregate (come rain or shine) to watch their heroes on the field. You'll need to book tickets far in advance for Premier League Games, but women’s and lower league men’s games are usually easier to come by – and arguably far more fun to watch. Visit local team websites to book.

9. Be polite and embrace the art of queueing

Londoners (and British people alike) are big on manners, and not having any will get you into trouble. Say "please" and "thank you", and apologize if you bump into someone. Don’t stare at people on the Tube, and hold a door open for people behind you when you walk through one. Let people pass, and be sure to help people in need (people with buggies at the top of stairs, older people crossing the road etc). If there is a queue to the attraction you want to visit or a stall you want to buy from, join it – you’ll might not get into a confrontation if you skip the line, but you will be judged. 

10. Make a plan, but don't go overboard

London is massive, so getting from one side to the other takes a couple of hours in a car (and that's if there is light traffic). Riding the Tube is quicker, but journey times can still be long if attractions are on either side of the city. Minimize travel times by exploring by neighborhood – do a day in Central London, another day in West London and so on. Plan on spending at least a few hours in the big museums and galleries, as there is so much to see. Take many breaks, grab lunch at a cafe or pub and pause to take in the views. It’s easy to get carried away with the energetic pace of London, but sights are more enjoyable if you adopt a more leisurely approach.

11. Don’t leave your stuff lying around

Don’t leave your bags unattended at public venues like stations, buses, theaters or museums, as this is likely to cause alarm and your bag may be removed – or stolen. Only take with you what you are able to carry for several hours. Luggage storage is generally rare in London, but hotels will likely store bags once you check out. Avoid carrying mobile phones in back pockets or where they can be easily swiped from your hand in the street. Never leave your phone or purse on a cafe table, opportunistic thieves will distract you and it will be gone before you realise what's happening. 

12. It's an election year in London

The incumbent mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, will face an election race in May 2024 (he's been in the top job since 2016). This might not be particularly noteworthy for travelers, but it does mean there's greater incentive to make sure London is working well. Policing, housing and public transport are high on the agenda for all the candidates. Services have been expanded to support the rising number of "rough sleepers" in the city, with the visible issue of homelessness a concern for locals and visitors alike. Tube strikes, which brought the city to a standstill in 2023, have been averted but industrial action on national rail services in and out of the city continue. The city goes to the polls on Thursday 2 May, 2024. 

This article was first published September 2023 and updated March 2024

Explore related stories

Walking Tour

Mar 22, 2024 • 9 min read

Follow one woman’s quest to taste 100 cups of coffee in New York City.

Mar 17, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 11, 2024 • 5 min read

Mar 2, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 19, 2024 • 17 min read

Dec 25, 2023 • 11 min read

Dec 19, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 29, 2023 • 6 min read

Nov 10, 2023 • 6 min read

Is London safe to visit? A comprehensive safety guide

London is an ageless city with endless stories and an unforgettable charm. It is the capital of England and home to many major landmarks that are known around the world. Westminster Abbey , Big Ben and Buckingham Palace are some of the places that attract people from all over the globe, and it is one of the most popular European cities to travel to.

Overall about 30 million people get to know London each year, making it the third most visited city in the whole world! Considering that London also has a population density of over 9.5 million it can get quite crowded, especially during the spring and summertime when tourism spikes. The winter months can be busy, too as locals and travelers enjoy the Christmas festivities and wonderful spirit.

When traveling in a big city or somewhere unfamiliar it is extra important to be safe and aware of your surroundings. It can also be harder to keep track of your belongings in a busy city, so make sure that your things are safe in a London luggage storage location while you're out enjoying the attractions. Bounce has several spots located all around town for your convenience, so drop your bags and go have fun.

Is London safe to visit right now?

Yes, most areas in London are safe to visit and the United Kingdom ranks with a Global Peace Index of 33. London has a similar or lower rate of crime than other popular European cities, and most of the incidents take place in rural areas. The government cautions to be on alert while traveling to the city and keep an eye out for suspicious behavior in places with big groups like sporting events, street markets, music venues, celebrations and political events.

As a tourist, the most common petty crime that you could experience is thievery in terms of pickpocketing, purse snatching and the like. You should also beware of mugging, although the chances of that happening around tourist attractions with crowds are very low.

Keep reading to learn about how to be safe in London, and remember that the safety of you and your items is your responsibility. The safety tips that we will mention may be familiar to people who have previous experience traveling. If you are new to the wanderlust life, be sure to use these points to your advantage.

Top petty crimes and scams in London affecting tourists

Even the safest cities experience some sort of crime and, as a major city, London is no different. Below are a few crimes to watch out for and some advice for staying safe in London.

Bag stealing and pickpocketing

This is the most common petty crime in London and should be taken seriously. The best way to protect yourself is by not bringing any unnecessary belongings with you, especially expensive valuables, and using a Bounce luggage locker is a great way to protect your items. Keep your wallet close and have an extra strong hold on your passport and mobile phone when you are using them, as some thieves might try to snatch them and run.

Mugging and assault may happen in some parts of the city, although the frequency decreases in highly populated areas. The best way to protect yourself from these dangers is to be mindful of your surroundings, not wear flashy clothing or expensive accessories, and not travel alone in rural areas.

Spiked drinks and food

As long as you're careful and use common sense, spiked drinks and food won't be a danger. However, it is still important to be aware of it so you are more careful. When you are out at a restaurant, club or bar you should never leave your drink unattended or in the care of a stranger, and do not accept drinks or food from new acquaintances. This includes snacks, gum and even cigarettes.

ATM and credit card fraud

If possible, it is wise to use cash when paying for things in London. ATM frauds are not too common but they do happen, and the risk is higher when you are using your credit card. To be safe, cover the keypad when you're entering your PIN and stick to using ATM machines that are inside buildings or banks. Cybercrimes can also occur, so be smart when connecting to public wi-fi networks. As a side note, be wary of fake tickets and scammers when buying entry to various attractions.

Is London safe to travel alone

As a top tourist destination and exciting city, many people will want to travel to London alone. Luckily it has a good safety rating, with a 26 on the Bounce Women Travel Safety Index . This trendy destination is a very safe city for cautious solo travelers, and even women traveling on their own should feel secure. However, the best way to make sure that you have a good vacation is to be careful and use common sense.

There are still some areas in the city that should be avoided, whether you are traveling alone or not. Be extra cautious when using public transit while traveling solo and at night. The bus station, train stations and underground tube stations have a higher risk of being dangerous for solo travelers, and you should also avoid walking around by yourself in the dark. It is best to stick to well lit main roads and highly populated areas since all the lights and people will discourage muggers from striking.

Safest neighborhoods in London

When you visit London, do some research before booking a hotel to decide which neighborhood is the best for you. Overall, anywhere in central London will be fine and West London has a good reputation as well. Below are some of the safest places to stay in this great city, as well as some areas where extra caution is wise.

Richmond Upon Thames

Located right by the River Thames, this delightful London neighborhood is not only beautiful but also a safe place to stay. It has the lowest reports of common crime than anywhere else in the city.

Harrow is a pretty borough ranked as the second safest London neighborhood, and it is rare that inhabitants in the area report non urgent crime occurring here.

You can feel safe while staying in Bexley as it is another one of the best neighborhoods in the city for safety. Consider staying here during your trip to experience its uniqueness.

As with all big cities, some neighborhoods in London are not as safe. Caution should be heightened when spending time in Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, and Camden. They are listed as experiencing more street crime than others, so always visit in a group.

Is London public transportation safe?

Sometimes violent crime can occur while using public transportation. For London travel, this often happens when using unlicensed taxis which is why you should always be street wise and never enter a suspicious vehicle. Real taxis will be clearly labeled, and the black cabs are safe to use.

Additionally, crimes like pickpocketing and scamming can occur on public transit and in stations like King's Cross. Thieves will take advantage of the busyness of the crowded places to get away with the crime unnoticed, and you'll be a bigger target if you are distracted or look like you don't know where you're going.

To be safe, avoid wearing headphones or looking at maps so you can be more aware of your surroundings and take the usual precautions when it comes to your belongings. This includes leaving valuables in a luggage locker, not carrying lots of money on you and keeping your passport in a secure pocket. Greater caution should be taken at night time, and if you run into trouble while using the public transit services you can contact Transport For London to report a crime.

Important emergency numbers in London

Like all major cities, London provides emergency services that can connect you to the local police station or other professionals that will help you. Write them down or keep them in your emergency contacts during your trip.

• Main emergency number (police, fire department, ambulance): 999 or 112
• Non urgent crime: 101
• Non emergency medical number: 111

For the main emergency numbers you can use 999 anywhere from within the city and 112 from anywhere around the world. You will be directed to the same call center, so both numbers ultimately lead to the same place. These numbers should be used when a real emergency is happening, and the number for non urgent crime is best used to report a previous incident. When using your phone in a foreign city remember to be aware of your embassy number.

Preparing for a safe London vacation

Brick Lane, Trafalgar Square, Notting Hill, and places in the West End like Covent Garden and Leicester Square; all of these spots are waiting for you to discover. This is a huge city and crime definitely exists, but as long as you are careful and follow these London safety tips then you are going to be fine.

The best way to ensure safety in London is to be prepared, so check out these other guides on How to Get Around London and Where to Stay in London: The Ultimate Guide . Once you know how to navigate London and its different areas you will be ready to explore this amazing city.

Explore the world

Love discounts and traveling?

Sign up for our newsletter to get insider travel tips and a 10% discount delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam here, just the good stuff.

Get the Bounce app

Instantly find locations nearby to drop off your luggage wherever you go.

Is London Safe? 23+ London Safety Tips for Visitors (2024)

This post contains affiliate links for which I may make a small commission to help keep the site running. You will not be charged extra for these items had you not clicked the links. Thank you for your help to keep the site running!

Having grown up in America, I know first hand the type of coverage that makes it onto local and national news about places around the world.

If you’re asking, “Is London safe,” “Is London safe to travel?” “Is London safe for female students” or even “Is Central London safe?”, it might be because you, too, have seen the news stories and the articles over the years about “no go zones” and knife crime and terrorist attacks and whatever else.

GET A FREE LONDON INTRO GUIDE and ACCESS TO MY FB GROUP

Start your planning with this “Intro to London” guide and access to my London planning Facebook group!

I consent to receive this book and other e-mails from Girl Gone London

I’ve also lived in or near London as an American for roughly the past 7 years, and I’ve experienced walking through the city as a solo woman late at night, commuting on the tube every day, and just generally going about my life in this amazing city that so many people call home.

The first thing I want to tell you before we get into safety tips for London (especially if you’re a parent of a London study abroad student because you’re probably freaking out the most) is that, in my experience, London not only feels safe, but is safe.

Of course, everywhere has their problems and you’ll still want travel insurance when in the UK .

It’s a big city, and you have to take big city precautions as you go around town, but did you know that in 2018, the murder rate in London went to an all-time high and New York City’s murder rate hit a low?

Now you’re like, wait, what?!

I am even more terrified!

Maybe, until I tell you that that means that there were 289 murders in New York City last year and 134 in London.

A “high crime” period in London has nothing on many major US cities like New York City, Chicago, Los Angeles and others.

And maybe you’re now thinking, “Okay, but I am scared of this cities as well!”

Seriously, don’t worry.

London is an incredibly safe city and there are no such thing as “no go zones,” nowhere you could find yourself as a tourist in London that would be too terrifying to deal with, no reason that you shouldn’t feel safe and happy traveling here.

To put it in perspective, my British husband is terrified to go to America because he worries about guns, as guns are very hard to get access to in the UK and he did not grow up in a culture of shooting drills or gun crime.

But this article isn’t to teach you about London gun crime and murders because that’s not the sort of thing you need to worry about.

Instead, you’re wondering, “Is London safe?” because you want to know about your bag being stolen or walking in the dark by yourself.

So here are 23 London safety tips to keep in mind, including safety in central London and answering the question of, “is London safe at night?”

The Absolute Must-Knows (from a Londoner)

• 😍 Cheapest Way to See it All: Get the London Pass here (yes, it’s worth it)
• 🎭 Cheapest site for West End theatre tickets: London Theatre Direct
• 🚕 Cheapest and most reliable airport transfer service: Welcome Pickups
• 🚉 Cheapest Way to Book Train and Bus Tickets: Omio
• 🔌 Most Reliable Adapter for UK Plugs: This one

Hey! Want more honest UK tips and planning advice? Click here to join my London and UK Travel Tips Facebook group , where I can answer more of your questions!

London Safety Tips

1. how to be safe in london: keep your phone in your pocket.

One of the most prevalent crimes that happens in London are people riding up alongside pedestrians on their mopeds, snatching their phones out of their hands, and then continuing on their journey so you never see your phone again.

They aren’t out to injure you, but they also aren’t going to be gentle either.

The best way to combat this?

Simply don’t have your phone waving about as you walk along on the sidewalk.

If you do need to look at directions, go off to the side or closer to the building.

I carry my phone with me in London every day, but I just try to be aware of my surroundings and keep it closer to my body.

🛎 Still looking for somewhere to stay in London?

My favorite hotel in London for all visitors is the Strand Palace ( click here to check prices ). ⭐⭐⭐⭐

2. London Safety: Mind the Gap

For your physical safety in London when you’re traveling around London , you should take note of the “mind the gap” announcements in tube stations and when stepping on and off the tube.

At some stations, there are major gaps in between the platform and the train and your foot (or your entire body in a few cases) could easily fall in there if you’re not careful.

IMPORTANT: are you coming to the UK from abroad?

In case you’re reading this from outside the UK and will be a foreign visitor here, you need to know these 2 things to stay safe and save money.

• Travel insurance – you need it when going overseas! I use this site to get the best quotes and purchase my packages from. Do not skip this – having medical coverage abroad as well as other coverage in case of missed flights, lost luggage, etc is essential. As I said, I have never gone wrong using this site .
• International debit cards without fees – do not get stuck paying extortionate foreign fees when using your card abroad (and the UK is almost all card these days). I use the Wise debit and travel card which you can apply and learn more about here .

3. How to Stay Safe in London: Don’t Bring or Carry Valuables if Not Necessary

The first way to not lose valuables or get them stolen from you in London is to leave them at home.

As someone who walks around London every day, I have never had anything stolen from me or pickpocketed.

That doesn’t mean it doesn’t happen, but just that there is not more of a risk than any other big city.

But still – really weigh up what you need to take with you to London and don’t take anything valuable that you don’t absolutely need.

Your finest jewelry can stay home, for instance.

4. Leave Your Passport in Your Hotel Room or Accommodation

Let’s talk about safety in London when it comes to your passport.

I know that it can feel scary to leave your passport behind when you’re out touring, but I truly think this is the best option.

You should be staying somewhere where you trust that your belongings will be safe there, anyway, and the chances of you either losing your belongings while out or getting them stolen are much higher than someone breaking into your accommodation and stealing your passport.

Both chances are very small, of course, but I just think taking your passport out with you is asking for trouble when you don’t need it.

5. Forget the Money Belts

Hey, look, a London safety tip telling you to not be safe?!

I feel like there is a thing where all Americans feel like they need “ money belts ” to travel anywhere in Europe to keep your money tucked away safely.

If this really floats your boat, you’re welcome to do it, but London just isn’t the place where you need something like this.

I carry my wallet around everyday in my backpack and purse and have had no issues or even the slightest instance where something could have been taken from me.

I’m probably tempting fate here, and I don’t recommend you keep valuables in outer pockets of backpacks, but there is a balance being sensible and feeling like you need to strap everything with duct tape to your skin while having 18 layers of protection over you.

6. Is London Safe? Yes, but be Aware of Where Your Belongings Are

Obviously the caveat that comes with Tip 5 is to make sure that you know where your belonging are at all times.

Particularly when on public transportation, carry your bag or backpack in your front so you can see it, and if you’re in a busy or crowded area, pay extra attention.

I wouldn’t leave wads of cash sticking out of your back pocket, you know?

7. Take Note of Serial Codes

If something does get stolen, the police will have a much easier time tracking it down if you can provide them with pictures and serial codes of the items (say laptops or phones or tablets) that were taken.

Without that, they may never be able to recover your item because this is a big city where lots of things get misplaced or go missing, not some rural town in Kentucky where there is only one theft a month.

The more information you can provide about your items, the better.

8. Plan Your Transportation Ahead of Time

London runs on public transportation, and when people want to get places faster than that, they take a cab or an Uber.

The best way to make sure you’re not stranded somewhere or unsure how to get home after a night out is to make sure that you have written down your plan to get home ahead of time.

This is a really important tip for staying safe in London.

Take a look at the maps, do some searching on CityMapper and Google Maps, and really figure out the best way to get home so you’re not left at 3am wondering which bus to take and then you end up on a bus that takes you to the opposite side of the city.

9. Don’t Leave Your Phone on an Outside Café Table

This is more prevalent in countries in mainland Europe because London isn’t often nice enough to actually sit outside at tables, but let’s say that the sun is shining and you’re enjoying a pint at the pub or a coffee at the coffee shop outdoors while browsing Instagram.

Make sure that you have your phone in your hands while on the table (if outside) at all times, or be aware of your surroundings.

Sometimes moped thieves will spot a phone lying on a table, drive up on the sidewalk to the table, swipe the phone, and then go on their way.

10. Put The Straps of Your Bag through the Chair at Pubs and Restaurants

I’ve never had a problem with things being taken or feeling like I was in danger of getting my belongings stolen in London, but I always like to be extra sure and participate in London travel safety by putting one of the straps of my backpack through my chair legs when I’m sitting down at pubs or restaurants.

That way, if somewhere were to come up and attempt to take it, they’d be foiled by the extra security!

Perhaps a bit overkill, especially if you’re in a brightly lit Pizza Express or something, but it’s not harming anything.

11. Don’t Run for Trains or Tubes

The number of times I have seen people absolutely wipe out while running to catch a closing train or tube is insane.

On the regularl, people are just slamming up against doors, getting their belongings and LIMBS caught in the doors, and it’s just not safe and not a good look.

Honestly the biggest threat to London being safe for tourists is the danger of THEMSELVES.

So plan your route ahead of time to give you enough time to not have to rush like that.

I’ve seen a woman really hurt herself wiping out on a slippery floor while running for a train and it’s not a great way to spend your vacation.

12. Carry Water with You in the Summer

London wasn’t built for extreme heat, or really heat at all and some safety in London has to do with the weather!

The tubes can get very hot, there isn’t air conditioning in 95% of buildings, and the sidewalks and roads just seem to radiate heat.

It can be easy to get dehydrated quickly, particularly when you have a long tube journey, so carry a bottle of water with you in the summer – a reusable one like this is best, if it’s going to be hot outside.

13. Take Note of Touristy-Heavy Areas and Be More Careful

In every city, there are certain areas that are more touristy-heavy that are frequented more often by people who are up to no good.

That’s because they know the vast majority of people in that area aren’t going to be on their guard watching their belongings, and it can be quite confused and manic.

Some areas like this for London include Covent Garden, Leicester Square, Borough Market , and the area around Westminster and Trafalgar Square.

These are coincidentally some of the must-do places in London, so I’m by no means advocating for avoiding them, just be aware when you might be in a busier area.

14. Write Down the Emergency Number

Did you know that the emergency number in the UK is not 911, but 999?

I say to write it down because it can be easy to forget if you’re in the midst of an emergency and keep dialing the US emergency number.

15. Carry a Tube Map with You

The tube is the best way to get around London in many cases ( check out the guide to transportation in London for more information ), but many people rely on tube maps on their phone.

This is fine, until your phone dies and you want to check the tube route without actually being in a tube station to check!

There are paper tube maps available in all tube stations and train stations that have a tube station, so pick a few up and carry them with you.

16. Carry a Portable Phone Charger with You

To make sure that the aforementioned phone dying doesn’t happen, carry a portable phone charger like this with you to ensure that you’re always ready to go.

Looking up directions and other touristy-things can really drain a battery, and these portable phone chargers are so small that you can fit them into a tiny clutch or purse if that’s all you’re carrying.

17. Make Sure You Have a Phone that Works in the UK

For your own personal safety in being able to call emergency services and for the ability to look up directions, make sure that your phone actually works in the UK before you come.

You can get an international plan, or you can get a UK sim card when you get here (pay as you go) to put into your phone for your trip, which will only cost about 10 pounds.

I recommend the sim card provider called Three.

18. Try to Walk in Pairs in the Middle of the Night

I first started this tip with “walk in pairs after dark,” which is absolutely absurd because it gets dark so early in London for much of the fall and winter that it isn’t accurate.

To be honest, I feel much safer walking as a solo woman in London at night , up until about midnight, than I do walking in my local neighborhood.

If you’re not purposefully taking back alleys and are sticking to actual streets, London is very safe to walk around.

Especially in busy districts where the theater shows and restaurants let out late, you’re going to be around other people and not aimlessly wandering the empty streets.

When the streets are empty, however, in the middle of the night – you shouldn’t really have a reason to be out anyway, but if you are, bring a buddy with you.

19. Avoid Dimly Lit Parks or Squares at Night

One place I would avoid after dark is dimly lit parks.

It’s not that they’re a breeding ground for crime or anything – many are locked up anyway so you can’t access them, it’s just that it’s never really a great idea to be in a dimly lit area by yourself when it’s dark and there aren’t other people around, is it?

20. Put Copies of Your Passport in Multiple Places in your Luggage

If something does happen to your passport while in London, whether you lose it or you’re carrying it around and your bag gets stolen, having full picture copies of your passport will help you get a new one from the US embassy.

21. Don’t Wear Earphones All the Time

We live in a culture that seems to have us always plugged in, and I fully walk to and from work with my earphones all the way in, but if you’re a visitor to London, I would try to at least keep one out so you are aware of what’s going on around you, particularly traffic.

22. Look Both Ways

How safe is London for tourists, really?

Well, so safe that one of the most dangerous things for visitors to London is that they’re not used to cars driving on the left side of the road!

Seriously, you need to look both ways before crossing since you’re not used to knowing where the traffic is coming from.

There are helpful signs on the roads that will tell you which way to look, but you can never be too safe.

23. Only Get in Prebooked Ubers, Black Cabs or Preorganized Taxis

When deciding which kind of transport to take, make sure you’re not getting in just any unmarked black car that offers to take you home.

You should either prebook an Uber or a transfer with a company like Welcome Pickups , or you should get in a “Marked” black cab which is a London cab that looks very distinct, has a light on the top and will have licenses displayed.

Terrorism in London

One of the key points I want to talk about when discussing London safety tips is terrorism in London, because I think that’s what many Americans fear.

Yes, London has had terrorist attacks, notably the incident on the tube in July of 2007 and in recent years there were incidences of van-led terrorist attacks on bridges/populated areas in Europe.

I will not downplay these incidences.

They happened, and there is no denying that.

But what I do want to address is that, first and foremost, London has gone to incredible lengths to react to these threats and keep its residents and visitors safe.

For instance, you may notice that there is hardly anywhere to throw anything away on the tube or in tube or train stations.

This isn’t to be annoying, this is because it makes it much easier for police to patrol unattended baggage in the area and deal with any threats straight away.

You also may notice bollards along the roads in heavily populated areas and bridges.

This is not for aesthetic, this is to prevent vehicles from coming onto the sidewalks.

Sure, something could happen while you’re in London and I can’t guarantee it won’t, just like I can’t guarantee that you’re not going to get hit by a bus when walking across the street tomorrow.

That is the nature of traveling, but I can absolutely assure you that facing any fears you have and coming to London is so worth it.

I also want to reiterate that the “London is in panic!” media coverage on some American networks after these events that reaches American media outlets is just not accurate.

When the Westminster bridge attack happened, the whole city did NOT shut down.

I was at work, and despite some of my coworkers taking a way home that avoided that area, we all went about our days and our lives.

Clearly Londoners thoughts were with the victims of the attack, but after living in the UK for 7 years, I’ve learned that Americans tend to sensationalize things that are happening overseas when really “on the ground” it feels a lot different (and less intense!)

London Safety Overall

Now that I’ve just gone through a bunch of ways to protect yourself in London, I want to reiterate again that the biggest dangers to most tourists will be the traffic patterns and their phones dying while they’re trying to figure out directions to the next attraction.

I spend every day in central London, not just in one part of the city where I work but all across it.

I will say, with no hesitation, that all of central London (Zones 1-2), I would walk around by myself during the day and not think twice.

The vast majority of that I would also walk around by myself well into the late night.

Do be aware of your surroundings, and do take caution, and do have a plan, but do not worry about traveling to London in terms of your personal safety.

This is a thriving, wonderful, safe city and its residents pride themselves on that.

Want more London travel guides? Check these out!

• The Definitive London Packing List for Visitors
• A Full Guide to Oyster Cards in London for Dummies
• Getting around London: Everything a Visitor Needs to Know
• Weather in London: a Visitor’s Guide
• The Best Time to Visit London: a Local’s Guide
• London on a Budget: How to Save Money in London
• Money in the UK: How to Pay for Things in London
• Exactly How Many Days to Spend in London: an Expert Guide
• How to Use the Tube in London: a Guide for Newbies
• What to Wear in London (How to Dress Like a Londoner)
• British Pub Etiquette: the must-read guide
• 49+ Expert London Travel Tips
• Visiting London with Anxiety: the ultimate guide

UK Travel Planning Guide: the FAQs

🏥 Should I buy UK travel insurance?

Absolutely yes. Basic coverage is not expensive, and as a visitor you are NOT covered under the NHS. Compare policies and prices with Travel Insurance Master here , a big name in the travel insurance business, and cross that off your list.

🔌 Do I need travel adapters for the UK?

Yes, you do, otherwise you won’t be able to plug in your electronics/phone/lifelines. I recommend this one , which is all-in-one so you can use it in other countries.

🚗 What do I need to drive in the UK?

The first thing you need to check out if you’re planning on renting a car in the UK is this guide to driving in the UK for visitors – the roads, signs, and driving experience will likely not be what you’re used to and it’s essential to prepare yourself to stay safe and aware.

🛌 What’s the best way to book hotels in the UK?

For UK hotels, Booking is the best site as it offers free cancellation on many properties. If you want an apartment, I always recommend VRBO over AirBnb.

📳 Will my phone work in the UK?

Yes – if you set it up right. Check out my guide on making your foreign phone work in the UK to ensure that you get the type of service you need.

🚿 Can I drink the water in the UK?

Yes, UK water is great and perfectly safe. But drink out of taps in any kitchen or use water fountains. Double check before drinking out of the taps in hotel bathrooms, though, as they may be on a different system. London water is safe to drink .

Heading to London? Want the best tips?

Check out my Ultimate Guide to London for Visitors. Using text, images and video, this guide is packed full of tips, tricks, safety advice, knowledge on how to get around and what to do, and more!

Moving to the UK or already an Expat?

Grab my book which covers moving to the UK, struggles I faced and that you might face too, and uplifting advice to help you along the way! Available in hard copy and on Kindle.

3 thoughts on “Is London Safe? 23+ London Safety Tips for Visitors (2024)”

A delightful thing I learned from a recent first aid course is that if you dial 911 in the UK, then you will get put through to the 999 switchboard automatically. A helpful thing for overseas visitors who might go on autopilot in an emergency, and also for kids who may never have had cause to dial 999 but see people dialling 911 on TV or in films. 🙂

Fantastic tips!!! I lived and worked in London from 88 to 96 and loved it. I am taking my youngest niece to go and meet my half-sister and family for the first time. Your tips are therefore great, as I don’t always remember what to tell her about safety etc. 🙂 Thank you for telling about them. 🙂

I also find that if you look confident and don\t look too much of a tourist, you are not a completely obvious target.

Pickpockets have never taken anything from me in London, though they managed it in Paris, when I was much younger. To be safe in crowded places I normally use my shoulder bags as cross body bags, so that I feel more secure. I have also been known to carry my notes and cards in my bra…mostly while plane traveling etc. I probably am getting more and more paranoid the older I get. 😀

\Thanks so much for your great advice again. 🙂

Great read! Would you say West London (isleworth) is safe to walk from the bus station back home after dark?

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

All Destinations , Europe , London , United Kingdom

Is london safe tips and advice from a local.

If you’re visiting the capital city of the UK, you might be wondering is London safe?

As a world traveller who’s trying to visit 100+ countries, safety is incredibly important to me. 

However, something that I constantly talk about on this blog is that many places around the world are safer than they seem. 

Often, in doing so, I compare them to London – the city that I grew up in and still spend a lot of time in – demonstrating that, in some ways, places like Singapore, Vilnius and Algiers are just as safe as the UK capital.

But wait – does that mean London’s not safe? 

​Well, no – I usually use it as a comparison because London’s a “familiar” city to a lot of my readers. 

However, I thought it might be useful to write a London safety blog post for any travellers who are new to the city.

Because, while London is by and large safe, there are a few things to consider when visiting, which are especially useful if you’re not used to large, European cities. 

So, here’s my full assessment of London’s safety, written from my extensive knowledge of 18 years living there! 

This blog post may contain affiliate links.

Is London safe? 

Generally, London is safe.

Myself, my friends and family have lived in London suburbia and visited Central London frequently for all our lives with very few dangerous situations. 

However, like most big cities, things can and  do  happen.

After travelling and living in a more rural part of the UK, I wouldn’t say London’s one of the safest places in the world, but it’s also relatively easy to stay safe here. 

You’d have to be unlucky for any incidents to affect you on vacation, but it  is  always a possibility. 

The good news? By reading this guide, you’ll be clued up on what could happen and how to avoid it!

Solo female travel in London

I’ve spent a lot of time exploring London on my own, and generally it’s safe. 

Street harassment  can  happen, although it’s becoming less and less common – at least I’ve noticed it less in recent years. 

It’s very important to be mindful of who you meet when out, including online dates and people who you meet in bars (but of course, this is important anywhere). 

I’d also strongly advise to  not walk around late at night , especially as a solo female who isn’t aware of the area. Be mindful of taking the tube and night buses late at night too as they’ll be much quieter. 

Crime rate in London

The crime rate in London is certainly not as low as in other cities around the world, but it’s also not so high that it’s likely to affect your trip. 

Crime Rate reports 95 crimes per 1,000 people in 2022.

So, certainly not nothing, but be aware that this factors in petty crime including shoplifting and bicycle theft.

In fact, one of the most common crimes in London is anti-social behaviour, which can mean a variety of different things, most of which don’t affect tourists. 

Plumpot notes that 30 of these 1,000 are classified as violent crimes.

Again, not insignificant, but London is a big city and while violent crime can happen, you’re unlikely to be a target on a trip here. 

Knife crime in London

London  does  have its problems with knife crime, but it’s usually between gangs – the odds of getting caught up in it as a tourist is very low. 

As a local, I know one person who has been a victim of knife crime (she had to go to hospital but had no lasting injuries); she was targeted when walking home after work at around 11:30 pm. 

So, you can reduce the risk even further by avoiding walking around at night, especially in parts of London that you don’t know. 

Gun crime, however, is not an issue in London . Guns are very strictly regulated in the UK, and the hard border between the country and the European Union means that these weapons can’t be imported. 

Is there a risk of political unrest in London? 

​Not really. There’s political dissatisfaction, certainly, but not to the extent where unrest is a real possibility.

Many of us in the UK are not fans of the government; UK politics has been a bit of a joke in the last few years. 

However, we are a democratic country with freedom of speech, and while protests do arise, these rarely turn violent. It’s certainly not a day-to-day worry for us locals! 

Is there a risk of terrorist attacks in London? 

There are risks of terror attacks in many cities throughout the world, London being one of them. 

Attacks do happen here, but it’s important to put it into context.

They’re very rare – one happens every few years – and while they’re always tragic for anyone involved, the likelihood of  actually being involved in one  is very low. 

Terror attacks in London do not usually involve guns due to our strict gun control, and we have excellent counter-terrorism forces who foil the huge majority of bomb plots targeting the capital.

Knife attacks can happen, but they’re very rare. 

Safety on public transportation and in London taxis 

Public transport in London is generally safe, and often it’s the best way to travel around the city.

The roads are usually quite well managed, and traffic generally moves slowly enough that if any road incidents do happen, they’re minor. The “Tube” (our name for the subway or metro) also provides excellent service to much of the city.

But I’d recommend avoiding taking the tube very late at night (some services are 24 hours) if you’re on your own, especially if you’re a woman. It’s safer to take a taxi instead.

London taxis (otherwise known as black cabs) are safe; taxi drivers in London have immense knowledge of the city and can usually take you to your destination with no sat nav. Nowadays, they accept card and cash payments. 

However, I usually use Uber or Bolt out of convenience. They’re cheaper and I find them easier to use, plus I like to have the tracking turned on as an extra safety feature (when I’m in an Uber on my own I usually share my location with my partner). 

Dangerous areas of London

I wouldn’t say any areas of London leap out as particularly more dangerous than others – in fact, the official stats say that the most crime happens in the City of London and City of Westminster (aka the very centre of London!).

However, this factors in things like pickpocketing, which certainly does happen more in Central London. 

​Areas near where I grew up, such as Croydon, Lewisham and Brixton, often earn a reputation as being “dangerous” due to slightly higher crime rates – but in reality, they’re becoming safer and safer every year. 

In all honesty, rather than blanketing some areas as “no-go” neighbourhoods, I’d just recommend taking common precautions wherever you are in London. 

Scams in London

Scams in London  do  happen, and scammers are likely to target people who look obviously like tourists. So, to avoid these, try to blend in! 

• Ticket Scams at Tourist Attractions : At popular tourist destinations like the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, or the Tower of London, you may find individuals selling ‘discounted’ tickets. These are often fake. Always purchase tickets from official vendors or websites like Get Your Guide . 
• The Shell Game or Cup Game : Commonly seen on busy streets like Oxford Street or near tourist hotspots, this is a betting game where you’re asked to guess the location of a ball under one of three cups. It’s a well-orchestrated scam, often involving several people working together to deceive spectators.
• Fake Petitions or Charity Workers : Around Trafalgar Square or Covent Garden, you might be approached by people asking you to sign a petition or donate to a charity. While they engage you in conversation, an accomplice might pick your pocket.
• Taxi Scams : While London’s black cabs are generally reliable, beware of unlicensed cabs, especially around nightlife areas like Soho or Shoreditch. Always check if the taxi is licensed, or better yet, book through a reputable app.
• Rental Accommodation Scams : When looking for accommodation, especially online, be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Scammers often create fake listings or demand deposits for properties that don’t exist. Use trusted websites and never transfer money without verifying the legitimacy of the listing.
• Overpriced Street Performers : Street performers are common in areas like Leicester Square. Some may demand money aggressively after taking a photo with them or watching their performance. It’s okay to walk away without paying if you’ve just been watching, but I would recommend not taking a photo with them to avoid them demanding money. 

Healthcare in London

In the United Kingdom, we have a national health service (known as “ the NHS “). The NHS offers free healthcare for citizens, residents and some visitors. 

EU citizens and nationals from other countries, such as Australia, may receive free emergency healthcare (double-check up-to-date arrangements before travelling), but treatment may cost. 

I’d still recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance before travelling to London, as this will cover you if you need treatment while you’re here. I use and can recommend SafetyWing .

LGBTQ+ travellers in London

As a straight woman, I can’t talk for gay people in London, but on the whole, the city has a thriving gay scene with plenty of queer bars and clubs, and large pride celebrations each year. Most people, particularly the younger generation, are extremely supportive of the LGBTQ+ community. 

​Some of my gay friends have told me, however, that they’ve experienced discriminatory comments a couple of times. Unfortunatley this  can  happen in London, as it can anywhere, but it certainly doesn’t reflect the attitude of most people in the city. 

The best gay scene in the UK is possibly Brighton, which is an hour away from London by train on the south coast. It’s worth visiting if you’re a member of the queer community! 

For further information, check out  Nomadic Boys’ gay guide to London .

Cultural Considerations for London 

London is a multicultural city; many Londoners have ancestry from all four corners of the globe. This is one of the things I love the most about the British capital!

This means that cultural differences are accepted and appreciated, and all communities have a space in the city. 

​That said, there are a few British cultural considerations to consider to make your trip here as safe and enjoyable as possible!

1) Queue properly

We love a queue  in the UK (this isn’t a stereotype). If we’re waiting for something, we queue orderly, one behind the other, and wait our turn. If you don’t queue, well, it probably won’t be unsafe, but you’ll certainly be met with a few disparaging looks!

2) We’re very polite

Brits are a bit excessively polite, but we do “mind our Ps and Qs” as some might say – we always say please and thank you. I’d recommend trying to remember to do this while you’re here, even if it can seem a bit much – because if you need any help, British people are much more likely to be responsive if you’re polite!

3) Londoners are quite reserved

As someone who’s lived in London and the South West, this is much more of a London thing – but it’s not common to strike up a conversation with people on the London Underground or elsewhere in the city. You  can , by all means, and many people are receptive to it, but don’t be offended if people don’t seem that chatty!

4) Stand on the right on escalators

On escalators in London, particularly those that descend to the Tube (our metro) stations, stand on the right. This is so people who want to walk down or up can do so on the left. This is abided by throughout the city!

Not doing any of the above won’t put you in any  danger  per se, but they’ll help you not stick out as a tourist!

Food hygiene in London

Food hygiene in London is generally good. On the doors of eating establishments, you can see their food hygiene rating (usually out of five). Most places are a five or a four. 

Getting food poisoning certainly can happen, but that would be because of individual restaurants rather than London as a whole. 

Can you drink the tap water in London? 

Yes, you can drink tap water in London and all over the UK – barely anyone in the country drinks bottled water. 

Although, that said, after living away from London I do notice that it’s never quite as clear and tasty as the tap water we have in the West! 

London weather safety

When you think of “London weather”, I bet you’re imagining drizzly, damp days? 

We certainly have our fair share of rain – but we do have sunny days too! Snow is rare, but can happen once or twice a year. 

Generally, our weather is very  middling , which means that it’s usually a safe place as far as the climate is concerned. 

We do have flooding sometimes, although not usually in Central London, and not to any great extent where it would cause danger. 

​Pavements can be icy in the winter months, but nowhere near the extremes of places like the Baltics or Scandinavia. 

And in the summer, the temperature usually stays under 30°C – although it did hit 40°C in an extreme heatwave a couple of years back. 

One thing that is worth noticing is because our climate is very middling, we don’t deal with extreme weather very well at all!

So, if you’re visiting London and it’s snowing, or the temperature’s over 30°C, expect delays and interruptions.

Much to many of my international friend’s amusements, when it’s 30°C+ we have safety notices up at our stations – but if you’re used to this weather in other countries, you’ll cope with it just fine! 

Natural disasters in London

Along with weather incidents, we don’t really have any natural disasters in London – or all of the UK, bar the occasional flood. 

Precautions to take in London

So, while London’s not one of the world’s  safest  cities, I certainly wouldn’t label it as  dangerous  either. Generally, with a bit of common sense, you can have a safe and happy trip here! 

Here are my top tips, as a local, to boost your personal safety in London. 

1) Don’t walk around at night

I’ve said this a few times in this article, but it’s worth stressing. Don’t walk around alone at night, especially if you don’t know the area and especially if you’re a woman. It’s just not worth the risk; incidents are rare but have happened.

Depending on the mode of transport available, either take a bus, tube, train or taxi instead of walking. 

Which brings me on to….

2) Be mindful of deserted tube trains

Some Tubes operate a 24 hour service at weekends now, which is great! It gives people a more budget-friendly way to travel around while staying safe at night.

However, if I was on my own, I probably wouldn’t take the tube at 3am – the fact that it’ll likely be deserted would give me the creeps. I’d opt for a taxi instead. 

3) But also be wary of the tube in rush hours

​London can be  very  busy in rush hour (which goes on for longer than an hour – around 7am – 9am and 4:30pm – 6:30pm). The tube can be packed at these times, so they’re not the best for people with claustrophobia! I’d also recommend taking extra care if you have mobility requirements or are travelling with children at these times. 

4) Be extra careful of where your valuables are

Pickpockets operate in crowded areas in London – I’m constantly telling my boyfriend (who didn’t grow up in the city) to move his phone from his pocket when we get on the tube! Keep valuables in a zipped pocket, preferably in a cross body bag. 

5) Don’t carry large amounts of cash

Flashing cash could make you a target to a pickpocketer. Plus, London is pretty much cashless – I can’t remember the last time I carried around any with me! Grab a credit card with no fees and you’ll be dandy. 

6) Don’t drink too much 

The UK does have a rather heavy drinking culture; it’s not uncommon for people to get  very  drunk on a night out! While I certainly have historically had a few very drunken nights in London, I would recommend reigning it in a little if you don’t know the city. 

7) Know emergency numbers

Our emergency number is  999 , which you can call for an ambulance, fire or police. If you want non-emergency health advice, call  111 . 

So, are you ready to visit London?

London’s a bucket list city for many, and while it doesn’t have the  lowest  crime rate in the world, you can absolutely have very safe travels here!

It’s a very busy city, which is both a blessing and a curse at times – larger, more severe crimes may happen less when there are lots of people but it is a prime setting for petty theft and similar crimes. 

The main tourist areas are generally safe, bar a few pickpocketers and scammers, and most other areas are fine in the daytime – just take precautions throughout the city at night. 

But, if you follow my tips, you should find London to be a comfortable, safe place to be! 

• New Zealand
• The Philippines
• The Netherlands
• United Kingdom
• Inspiration
• Overland Itineraries
• Packing Lists
• Travel Tips
• Working Abroad
• Accomodation Guides
• Overland Travel
• Preserving Cultures
• Protecting Animals
• Living Abroad

Is London Safe for Travel in 2024?

Is London safe for travel? Generally — yes, absolutely! London is a lovely destination with an exciting mix of museums, nightlife, history, and more. 

Some London locals helped us put together this guide to staying safe in their hometown. It covers everything from the COVID pandemic to tips for solo travelers. 

Looking for insider info on safety in London?   Work with a local   for on-the-ground access as you plan your trip.   Learn more . 

• What to know about London and COVID
• Is London safe?
• What solo travelers should know

Common scams in London

Transportation safety tips, be cautious in these areas, emergency numbers to know.

London and the COVID Pandemic

At this stage of the pandemic, Americans can travel to London whether or not they have been vaccinated and without COVID testing or quarantine. Masks are still recommended in crowded areas but are not required for the most part. 

Ready to start planning your trip to London? A local can help you create an itinerary that balances seeing the iconic sights and getting off the beaten path. 

London is safer than many American cities

The coronavirus pandemic aside, London is an incredibly safe place to visit. In fact, the overall crime rate in London is much lower than it is in many big American cities, including New York.

The violent crime rate in London is lower than it is in New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, San Diego, Philadelphia, and many others. In fact, London is considered to be so safe that most of its police don’t even carry guns .

How ViaHero Works

Choose a local

Message the local

Get a guidebook

Advice for solo travelers.

Locals tell us that London is a great city for solo travel . Why? Our trip planners say:

• The tube makes travel easy : Riding the tube (London’s metro) is a safe and easy way to get around town—of course, it’s also a great city to walk or bike! 
• London has tons of fantastic solo activities : The surplus of museums, shows, and walking tours mean that solo travelers have plenty of choices when it comes to activities and events. 
• Pub culture makes eating alone less intimidating : Even if you feel uncomfortable eating alone at a restaurant, it’s super chill to grab a bite and a beer at one of London’s many incredible pubs . If pubs aren’t your scene, London also has plenty of restaurants with counter service—perfect for a solo traveler.

London is also a safe place for women traveling alone. Just keep an eye on your belongings, don’t accept drinks from strangers, and be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking at night.

It's good to get local advice , especially when traveling solo! Many of our London trip planners are women who can explain how they keep safe.

Most museums in London are free  so  you can spend as much time as you want at each exhibit.

Like in any big city, London has its fair share of scammers. Locals say that these are some of the most common scams visitors may encounter:

Vendors selling fake tickets to shows, music venues, or popular attractions

People asking to borrow your phone

Pickpockets (especially on the Tube)

It’s common sense, but be sure to keep an eye on your belongings at all times—especially when on the Tube, the bus, or anywhere like a busy train or bus station.

Locals say that some of the worst stations in London for pickpockets include King’s Cross, Oxford Circus, and Victoria stations. 

London police are on the look-out for unattended baggage, so be sure you don’t leave your suitcase somewhere and walk away—you may cause an international incident.

When it comes to London transportation , locals tell us there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Benefit from local advice . Our trip planners note that:

• Uber is not the best option : After much legal wrangling, Uber has officially lost its license to operate in London . The ride-sharing app will still be available as both sides iron out the details, but locals tell us that the public transit in London is so good that you probably won't need it. If you do want to use an app to call a cab, they suggest ones using one like   MyTaxi .  
• You should only use black cabs : If you are hailing a cab from the street, be sure to only use the official black taxi cabs. 
• The tube does not run all night : Some, but not all tube lines run 24/7 . Many trains stop running at midnight. Be sure to plan out your travel home so you aren’t stranded in a place you don’t know. And if you do take the tube at night, try to avoid empty cars. (Psst—our locals will provide detailed transit instructions when they design your trip.)
• Use apps like Citymapper to navigate like a pro : The London-based Citymapper app makes getting around any city easy. And it’s free to download! 

Like any big city, international city, London has some areas with high crime rates (here, though, that crime is almost completely petty theft).

This is especially true in places that attract a lot of tourists. They also attract a lot of pickpockets! Generally safer during the day, locals say to be careful in these neighborhoods at night: 

• Westminster : Although a popular place to visit—the borough contains top London attractions like Big Ben and Parliament —Westminster has a consistently high pickpocketing rate. This is due, in part, to how many tourists visit. 
• Camden: Camden likewise contains many tourist attractions that make it a popular target for pickpockets, like the Camden Markets .
• Newham : Gives its location far east of central London, tourists will have few reasons to travel to Newham. That's ok, since the area has one  worst crime rates in London . It does include London Stadium , however. If you’re hoping to see some matches, get a local’s advice about staying safe in this area.  
• Lambeth : Lambeth is a big borough in south London with a high crime rate. It also contains some cool attractions—the London Eye , for example—which makes it a hotspot for thieves and pickpockets. It also includes several more residential areas that are less safe —but most tourists won’t travel that far south, anyway. 
• Southwark : Southwark contains the Globe Theatre , the Tate Modern , and Borough Market —and has one of the higher crime rates in London. As another tourist hub, most of the crimes here also include pickpocketing and theft. Be on your guard at night. 

Although you probably won’t need emergency numbers, it’s always good to have them on hand. If you’re in an emergency, call 999 or 112 : both will connect you to the ambulance, fire, and police services. You call also call 101 for a non-urgent crime.  When you have a local plan your trip , they'll be available with phone support in case you run into any issues during your stay.

Looking for more info?

And for more on London travel, check out: 

• 15 Amazing Places to Visit in London
• London Transportation: Everything You Need to Know
• London Travel FAQ 2024
• Things to Do in London
• Where to Stay in London

Which is More Worthy? Go on Safari, Bungee Jump, or Find Your Soulmate?   Vote Here

Search our 1817 Bucket List Ideas

Is London Safe? 9 Travel Tips For Avoiding Trouble

Hannah champion.

• August 26, 2019

London is one of the busiest and most popular capital cities in the world for tourists, but is London a safe place to visit and how can you ensure you have a hassle-free trip to this vibrant city? Read on to find out all you need to know about staying safe in London.  

Is London Safe? 

On the whole, London is considered a very safe city to both live in and explore as a visitor. While there are parts of the city that are best avoided due to safety concerns, the major tourist areas are safe and welcoming. As long as you use common sense, you’re sure to have a safe trip to London.  

Having visited London many times, I know all about using public transport, visiting the top tourist sites with ease, and how to stay safe when exploring London at night. Keep reading to discover my top travel tips for staying safe in London. 

1. Keep an Eye on Your Possessions, and From the Eyes of Thieves

The top tip for staying safe in London is to keep an eye on your possessions at all times. This tip works for visiting any major city, and London is no different.

The times when your belongings are most vulnerable to theft are when travelling on busy public transport , when queuing at major tourist sites and when taking photographs . It’s at these moments that your attention can be taken away from your bag or belongings, even if just for a second, and people may take advantage.  

If you can wear a bag that is safe and secure with zips, buckles or toggles, then you’re less likely to come under attack from thieves. Wearing a cross-body bag or carrying your backpack on your front can also minimise risk. It’s best to keep your valuables out of sight unless you are using them, so you don’t just walk around with your phone or wallet simply in your hand or pocket.  

2. Know Where You're Going, Don't Look Like a Tourist

It’s always a good idea to know where you’re going when you set off from your hotel to whatever tourist attraction you’re visiting. This ensures that you can get on and off public transport with ease and you won’t need to worry about getting your phone out to follow Google Maps while you’re walking along the street.

Again, this just minimises your risk of being targeted, either by scammers (offering to take you to your destination) or by people looking to grab your phone when you’re not paying attention. If you look like you know where you’re going, and you walk with ease and confidence, you’re much less likely to be accosted by someone looking for an easy target. 

Knowing where you’re going and which stop you are getting on/off at on public transport also means you’re unlikely to end up in any untoward neighbourhoods where you don’t know where you are. 

3. Look Out For Unexpected Cars and Buses When Walking 

London is a very busy city, and there are very few pedestrian-only streets. Therefore, cars and buses are likely to be passing by at all times. It is important to remember that cars drive on the left in the UK , so you’ll need to remember to check roads accordingly before crossing to ensure you stay safe while visiting London. 

Most crossings in the UK have green/red man signals, and while there are no punishments for jay-walking, it’s worth waiting for the green signal to ensure you don’t get caught out. 

4. Only Take Licensed London Taxis 

Taxis aren’t the best way to get around London during the day – they are expensive and slow in London traffic – but they can be an excellent way to travel at night. You’ll want to ensure you’re travelling in a metered taxi , so you’re not stung by any extra fees when arriving at your destination.

It is vital that you only use licensed London taxi cabs or official car hire services or apps. These are then insured and registered so you will be covered should you run into any trouble while travelling in London.  

5. Don't Walk London Alone at Night 

If you can possibly avoid it, you’ll want to ensure you don’t have to walk alone at night in London. Of course, it won’t be a problem to walk short distances to use public transport at night (e.g. if you leave a major theatre and then head to a nearby station) as there will be lots of other people around. But you’ll want to avoid walking any great distance alone at night and avoid walking in quiet, unlit areas. This tip goes for travelling in all major cities and towns.

If you can afford to, it’s best to take a licensed taxi directly to your final destination to ensure you stay safe when travelling at night in London.

If you do take public transport alone at night, try to sit in the middle carriages of the Tube or on the lower deck of a bus as these are likely to be busier and there should, therefore, be a lower risk of an incident.

If your walking route at night looks to be taking you through an unlit park or street, it’s best to avoid this route and find an alternative. You don’t want to put yourself in unnecessary danger for the sake of saving a few minutes. 

6. Check That Your Pin Is Covered When Using an ATM 

Just like in any city, you’ll want to make sure your PIN code is covered when using an ATM in London. Card fraud is possible wherever you go, but there are precautions you can take to stay safe. Make sure there is no-one hovering nearby or looking over your shoulder when using an ATM.

Another tip is to make sure you only use ATMs that look safe and secure. If you have any suspicions that an ATM may have been tampered with , try to find another ATM nearby, perhaps in a bank or convenience store.

You’ll also want to be aware of where your Contactless card is when travelling on public transport as there have been some reports of people trying to scam people out of money by using concealed card readers on busy transport.  

7. Being Aware of Your Surroundings is Key to Staying Safe

London is a real attack on the senses with sounds, sights and smells catching your attention wherever you go. It’s important to be aware of your surroundings so that you can avoid any untoward encounters or notice when any issues may be arising. 

One tip to help you stay aware of your surroundings is to avoid wearing headphones while you travel and walk around the city. While it can be fun to listen to music or podcasts while you walk, wearing headphones stops you from hearing vehicles, footsteps or conversations nearby that may flag up potential issues or dangers. 

If you feel uncomfortable at any moment, try to remove yourself from the situation, avoid eye contact and get yourself into a public place. 

8. Travel With Other People - London is More Fun Shared

While London is generally considered safe for solo travellers, visiting with friends or family can be a good way to avoid any unnecessary danger. Groups are much less likely to be confronted by strangers or to be targeted in a mugging attack.  

You’ll need to ensure that you still remain present and aware of both your belongings and surroundings when travelling as part of a group so that your distraction doesn’t lead to any danger. 

9. Be Aware of the UK Emergency Numbers

While it’s unlikely that you’ll run into any significant trouble when visiting London, it is good to be aware of any emergency numbers you might need. Whether you need to report an incident or want to notify police of suspicious behaviour or unattended luggage, you can use the numbers below.

Please note that 999 should only be used in times of real emergency. 

• 999 or 112 – Emergency number to contact police, ambulance or fire brigade 
• 101 – Non-emergency number for the police 
• 0800 40 50 40 – British Transport Police 

Hopefully, these nine tips will help you to stay safe while travelling in London and you will have an amazing time exploring the English capital. 

If you love travel you can check out our travel bucket list 51 Bucket List Ideas for Travel

If you liked this post please share it on:

Add items to your ‘Bucket List’ or ‘ Done List ‘  by pressing the buttons where you see them throughout this website.

Related Bucket List Items

Add to bucket list add to bucket list bucket list add to done list done visit london, uk, add to bucket list add to bucket list bucket list add to done list done hear big ben chime, add to bucket list add to bucket list bucket list add to done list done visit the tower of london, add to bucket list add to bucket list bucket list add to done list done see stonehenge, recent posts.

• What is Italy Known For?
• The Bucket List 10 -⏩ What are the Top 10 Bucket List Items?
• What is New York Famous For? 14 Things That Make New York the State it is
• What is Vietnam known for? 12 Things That Make Vietnam the Country it is
• Why is Route 66 Famous? 🚗15 Things to See Along the Way
• What is Lithuania Known For? 12 Things That Make Lithuania the Country it is
• What is Africa Known For? 7 Things That Make Africa the Continent it is
• 15 Best Places to Visit in February | USA, Europe and the World
• What Is Egypt Famous For? 7 Things That Make Egypt the Country it is
• What is Mexico Famous For? 11 Things That Make Mexico the Country it is

Keep All Your Bucket List Items in One Place

We need your HELP

What should be on the, bucket list 10.

This is a list of the top 10 bucket list life experiences given by thousands of people from all of the world

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Share this page:

United Kingdom Travel Advisory

Travel advisory july 26, 2023, united kingdom - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Kingdom due to terrorism.

Country Summary:  Terrorist groups continue plotting possible attacks in the United Kingdom. Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, local government facilities, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, major sporting and cultural events, educational institutions, airports, and other public areas.

There is also a risk of isolated violence by dissident groups in Northern Ireland, focused primarily on police and military targets.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Kingdom.

If you decide to travel to the United Kingdom:

• Be aware of your surroundings when traveling to tourist locations and crowded public venues.
• Follow the instructions of local authorities.
• Monitor local media for breaking events and adjust your plans based on new information.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and Twitter.com/Travelgov
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Kingdom.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel and return to the United States.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, united kingdom map, search for travel advisories, external link.

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

How Safe is London for Visitors?

This post will cover some of the most common questions visitors have when coming to London and provide tips for staying safe during your visit.

• Is London Dangerous?
• Safety Tips
• Is It Safe to Walk Around London at Night?
• Which Areas Are Safe?
• Is Brixton Safe to Visit?
• Things to Do in London

How Dangerous is London?

London is a very safe city.

However, just like any capital, crime does exist and it’s always best to take extra caution and be prepared when you come to town.

The majority of crime in London is opportunistic so as long as you don’t appear to be a target – you will likely not become one!

When violent crime does occur, it usually takes place in neighbourhoods that tourists wouldn't visit.

Is it Safe to Visit?

Yes! As far as large cities go, London is incredibly safe. During the day, the most common crime in London is pickpocketing - like most other European capitals.

At night, most areas in the centre of town are well-lit and public transport runs 24 hours a day to get you home safely.

You will notice a police presence in London and the Met police force are friendly, helpful, and approachable in general.

Women traveling alone are also safer in London than in many other world capitals.

Safety Tips in London

• Never accept rides on bicycle pedicabs.
• Keep to well-lit main roads when walking at night.
• If you are travelling alone on a bus at night – sit downstairs.
• It seems obvious but take care when crossing the street – we drive on the left here!
• Do not wear headphones when travelling alone as this will prevent you from being aware of your surroundings.
• Plan your journeys ahead of time, if possible. Know where you are going and which stop you will need. (Check www.tfl.gov.uk to plan your trips!)
• Only use registered minicabs or black cabs – never get into an unmarked or unregistered vehicle and never accept a journey from a driver off the street. Only black cabs are allowed to pick up travelers on the street.
• Solo travellers should definitely consider exploring the city with a tour group! We have a wide variety of tours that explore many of London's various neighbourhoods - and all in a controlled and safe environment. See what's on when you visit HERE .

Belongings:

• Do not tuck your phone into your back pocket!
• Keep things like money, wallets, phones, etc. out of sight.
• Keep your wallet close to your body, and valuables on your person when possible.
• Never leave your bags unattended anywhere in London – this can lead to security alerts.
• Don't stand on the edge of the pavement and use your phone - thieves on mopeds or bicycles can ride past and snatch it from your hands!
• When carrying your bag, tuck it under your arm, or if you have a longer strap, cross it over your chest and one shoulder.
• If a stranger on the street asks you for directions or the time, be extra aware of your belongings while you answer (particularly your phone and wallet).
• Always keep a separate bit of cash somewhere else on you so, even if you are a victim of crime, you will always have enough money to get back to your home/hotel.

In Bars, Pubs, and Restaurants:

• Don't leave your drink unattended.
• Don't accept drinks from strangers you have not witnessed being made/poured. Keep your property underneath the table or out of sight - many locations have bag clips underneath bars/tables - hang your bags there if you can.

Is it Safe to Walk Around London At Night?

London is generally a safe city - even at night. Almost all of central London is well-lit and you'll very rarely find yourself alone as it's a 24-hour city.

Public transport runs 24 hours a day, too, so it's easy to get around even after dark.

The only parts of London that you should consider avoiding at night are the parks as they are not technically open after the sun sets and they tend not to be lit at night.

However, many of the royal parks are fenced off with gates locked after dark, anyway.

Of course, it's always worth keeping your wits about you and an eye on your bag and/or phone but, in general, central London is perfectly safe at night.

Which Areas of London are Safe?

As mentioned, most violent crime in London takes place in areas you will likely not visit.

The safest areas in town tend to be the ones most visited by tourists.

Safe Areas :

• Canary Wharf - Out to the East this is London's newest financial district and is full of skyscrapers and riverside apartments.
• The City of London - Part of "old" London, today this is the city's business and financial district. It's a vibrant hub during the day but empties out on nights and weekends. We recommend checking it out with us on our City of London Tour !
• Islington - Islington is a charming neighbourhood in the north of the city. A great place to stay, drink and dine.
• Kensington and Chelsea - Full of beautiful homes, boutique shops, and beautiful parks and gardens. Consider exploring Kensington with us on our Royal Kensington Tour .
• King's Cross - A newly refurbished area, King's Cross is home to great restaurants, accommodation, and the best-connected Underground Station in the city.
• Knightsbridge - Knightsbridge is on the edge of Hyde Park and where you will find the iconic Harrod's department store.
• Mayfair - Mayfair is home to posh shops, Bond Street, and some of the most expensive properties in the city. Discover it yourself with our Mayfair: Tiaras and Ferraris Walking Tour .
• The Southbank - This part of London runs along the River Thames and is filled with beautiful views and vibrant nightlife. Here you'll find things like the Globe Theatre, Tate Modern, and the iconic Tower Bridge. If this sounds up your street, sign up to our Sunday Southbank Stroll or, in the spring/summer/autumn, join our Night Tour that takes in all the lights of the buildings along the river.
• Westminster - This is where most of the "big" tourist sites are like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Trafalgar Square, etc. To really make the most of this neighborhood, consider joining our Royal Westminster Tour !

Other Areas That Are Not Dangerous But Where You Should Mind Your Belongings :

• Camden - Camden is known for its extensive and eclectic markets, as well as pubs and live-music venues. It's a great place for daytime shopping and nighttime entertainment.
• Clapham Junction - Clapham Junction is home to the UK's busiest rail station and this residential neighbourhood is booming with dozens of excellent restaurants, pubs, and bars.
• Covent Garden - In London's West End, Covent Garden is home to a covered market, stunning shops, and numerous theatres. Make the most of your time here by coming on our Covent Garden and the West End Walking Tour !
• Elephant and Castle - Undergoing a huge regeneration scheme (for better or for worse) Elephant and Castle is primarily residential and known for its' former markets which have been replaced by a shopping centre.
• Finsbury Park - This North London neighbourhood is next to the Emirate's stadium and is host to concerts and festivals throughout the year.
• Hackney - Home of the "hipsters," Hackney is slowly gentrifying but still holds onto its' independent shops, bars, and restaurants.
• Leicester Square - The heart of the West End, Leicester Square is home to film premieres, festivals, and Christmas markets. It's also where London's TKTS booth is for discount theatre tickets.
• Shoreditch (only some parts) - A true London melting pot, Shoreditch is home to some of the finest street art in the world, as well as Brick Lane, also known as the "Curry Mile." There are covered markets, street markets, street food, history and so much more here so think about letting us share it with you on our Graffiti and Street Art and East End Food Tours .
• Waterloo - Waterloo is a transport hub on the edge of the Southbank and is largely residential.
• Wapping - Part of London's Docklands, Wapping has undergone a transformation from warehouses to luxury apartments - but the historical pubs still remain such as the Prospect of Whitby .
• Wimbledon - Famous for the Tennis Club, Wimbledon is a mix of business, residential, and retail. A beautiful common to walk through, excellent shopping, and a variety of restaurants make it worth a visit even when the tennis isn't on. Consider exploring the area with us on our Quintessential Wimbledon Tour .

Areas to Avoid

The following are residential areas that you will likely not visit but are worth remembering when it comes to booking accommodation - particularly Air B&Bs!

• Tottenham (if not attending a sporting event)

Is Brixton Safe?

On London's south side, Brixton is home to a thriving Afro-Caribbean community, long-standing markets, street art, and music venues.

In the past few years, Brixton's incredible culture, delicious food, and world-class street art have made this area a hot spot for London visitors.

You may find when researching the area, that Brixton has higher levels of crime than some areas in the city and, while this is broadly true, it doesn't necessarily apply to the entire district.

Crime levels tend to be higher on the council estates deeper into the district, which you likely won't be visiting.

Provided you stick to public transport routes, keep an eye on your belongings, and explore public areas, it's highly unlikely you will experience any crime while in Brixton.

You will find several markets and music venues in Brixton (which are almost always busy), and there is an Underground station on the Victoria line which provides safe and easy access to the area.

There are also decent bus routes to get you in and out. Plenty of people live in, work in, and visit Brixton regularly without ever encountering any issues.

Want to check it out for yourself? Come explore it with us on our Brixton Street Art and Culture Tour .

Do I Need to Carry a Knife or Pepper Spray in London?

In some countries, it is common practice for people to carry a knife (this includes Swiss arms knives), but many blades are illegal in London.

Check https://www.gov.uk/find-out-if-i-can-buy-or-carry-a-knife before you travel to avoid arrest, imprisonment, or fines.

Pepper spray is illegal in the UK. Having pepper spray on your person subjects you to the same legal punishments as carrying a gun.

How to Contact Emergency Services

To reach Emergency Services dial 999 or 112 (only in case of a REAL emergency)

To report non-urgent crime, contact a local police station (find your nearest one here ) or dial 101.

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

North America

United kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

6 Safest areas to stay in London for tourists (and Where to avoid)

Wondering What are the safest areas in London to stay ? Where to avoid staying in London? In this post, I will help you to find the safest areas and neighborhoods to stay in London for tourists and the best hotels to stay in London.

London is the capital city of England and the United Kingdom . It is one of the most iconic and vibrant cities in the world, known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and numerous landmarks.  

London is home to numerous iconic landmarks, including the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament (which includes the famous Big Ben clock tower), the London Eye, and the British Museum, among others.

The River Thames flows through the heart of the city, and its presence has played a crucial role in London’s development and identity.

The city is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, with a diverse population from all over the world. This diversity is reflected in its cuisine, festivals, and neighborhoods.

London has an extensive public transportation system , including the iconic red double-decker buses, the London Underground (the Tube), and commuter trains, making it relatively easy to navigate around the city.

Football (soccer) is a major sport in London, with several prominent football clubs, such as Arsenal, Chelsea, and Tottenham Hotspur, based in the city.

Is London Safe to Visit?

London is generally a safe city for tourist s to visit. But, like any major city, it is essential to take some precautions to avoid pickpocketing and tourist scams.  

Here are some safety tips for travelers in London:

• London has many safe neighborhoods, b ut like any city, some areas may have higher crime rates. Research the areas you plan to visit and stay in well-known, tourist-friendly areas.
• Stay vigilant and aware of your belongings, especially in crowded public transport and tourist attractions. Keep your bags and valuables secure.
• If you need transportation, use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services to ensure your safety.
• Familiarize yourself with the emergency numbers, including the police (dial 999 in UK).
• Be cautious of scams targeting tourists , such as fake ticket vendors, distraction theft, or unsolicited offers.
• Traveling in a group , especially at night, can add an extra layer of security.
• In London, traffic can be heavy. Always look both ways before crossing the street and use designated pedestrian crossings.
• Familiarize yourself with local laws and customs to avoid any unintentional offenses.

What are the safest areas in London to stay?

The safest areas to stay in London for tourists are Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, South Kensington, Chelsea, and Covent Garden. Regardless of where you stay, it’s essential to use common sense, keep your belongings secure, and avoid poorly-lit areas at night as you would in any major city. 

Other safe residential neighborhoods in London are Richmond, Bermondsey, Highbury, and Hampstead. Richmond is  considered one of the safest areas in London. It is a leafy suburb, located in southwest London, known for its picturesque Richmond Park. 

Westminster is generally considered a safe area . It is a great base for sightseeing as it is home to many iconic landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey, and it attracts millions of tourists every year.

Westminster is also a major political and administrative center, which means there is a significant presence of police and security forces . As a result, the area is typically well-patrolled, and the crime rate is generally lower than in some other parts of London.

However, like any major city, tourist-heavy areas can attract pickpockets and petty thieves , so it’s essential to remain vigilant and keep an eye on your belongings. Additionally, late at night, it’s advisable to use well-lit, busy streets when walking alone.

Where to avoid staying in London as a tourist?

While London is generally a safe city for travelers, there are certain areas that are known for higher crime rates or have a reputation for being less desirable to stay in. They include Hackney, Haringey, Tower Hamlets, Stratford, Lambeth, Southwark, and Croydon. 

Camden is known for its popular markets and music scene, but it can get crowded, and certain parts might not feel as safe, especially late at night.

King’s Cross has undergone significant redevelopment in recent years, certain parts can still be a bit rough, particularly late at night.

Safest areas & neighborhoods to stay in London for tourists

Mayfair is one of the best areas to stay in London for tourists, especially for first-timers due to its central location, safety, and proximity to major attractions such as Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park.

Mayfair is an affluent area in the heart of London. It is one of the most prestigious and exclusive districts in the city, known for its upscale shops, luxurious hotels, fine dining restaurants, and beautiful Georgian architecture. 

Mayfair is situated within the City of Westminster and is bordered by Piccadilly to the south, Oxford Street to the north, Hyde Park to the west, and Regent Street to the east.

While Mayfair is generally considered a safe area compared to many other parts of London, like any urban area, it’s essential to take common-sense precautions to ensure personal safety.

Mayfair is renowned for its high-end shopping, with famous streets like Bond Street, Savile Row, and Mount Street hosting luxury boutiques and flagship stores for top fashion brands and designers.

The area is home to several art galleries that showcase both traditional and contemporary art, attracting art enthusiasts from all over the world.

Mayfair is close to three royal parks, including Hyde Park, Green Park, and St James’s Park providing a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

There are numerous historic landmarks in the area, including Buckingham Palace , Berkeley Square, Grosvenor Square, and the Handel House Museum.

Mayfair offers a plethora of high-end restaurants, Michelin-starred eateries , and exclusive members’ clubs, making it a popular destination for gourmet dining.

Mayfair boasts luxurious hotels, upscale apartments and grand townhouses , attracting wealthy residents and prominent figures.

Due to its central location and prestigious reputation, Mayfair remains a sought-after address for businesses, residents, and first-time visitors looking to experience the epitome of luxury in London .

Best places to stay in London in Mayfair:

• Luxury ($$$): The Biltmore Mayfair, LXR Hotels & Resorts , 5-star hotel, located on  Grosvenor Square in the affluent area of London’s West End, easy access to the finest shopping, dining and royal parks. It’s within walking distance from New Bond Street, Oxford Street, Regent Street, and Hyde Park.
• Mid-range ($$): Park Lane Apartments/Shaw House , former home of the famous author William Somerset Maugham, apartments are in the heart of Mayfair, close to Hyde Park and Oxford Street. Within walking distance from Bond Street Underground Station.
• Budget ($): The Chesterfield Mayfair , 4-star luxury hotel in London’s Mayfair, just off Berkeley Square, between Hyde Park and Green Park. It is a short walk from Green Park Underground Station, and Bond Street. You can enjoy the daily Traditional Afternoon Tea, which won the Tea Guild Award of Excellence.

2. Knightsbridge

Knightsbridge is an affluent and prestigious district in central London, ideal base for visitors seeking central location and luxury holiday. Knightsbridge is famous for its high-end shopping, luxurious hotels, and elegant lifestyle.  

Knightsbridge is a safe area . It is an affluent and well-maintained district with a significant police presence, contributing to its overall safety. The neighborhood attracts high-end residents and visitors, which also tends to result in lower crime rates compared to some other areas of the city.

Knightsbridge is home to some of the world’s most renowned luxury department stores and boutiques. Harrods , a world-famous department store, is located in the heart of Knightsbridge and attracts millions of visitors each year.

Additionally, you can find designer stores such as Chanel, Gucci, Prada, Dior, a nd many others along the bustling streets.

Knightsbridge is adjacent to Hyde Park , offers ample green spaces, walking paths, boating opportunities on the Serpentine lake, and various recreational activities.  

History buffs can visit The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) and the Natural History Museum . The V&A houses a vast collection of art and design artifacts, while the Natural History Museum showcases various specimens of plants, animals, minerals, and fossils.

The district itself is steeped in history, and you can find some beautiful examples of architecture, including elegant townhouses and historic buildings.

Knightsbridge offers an array of fine dining restaurants and chic bars that cater to its affluent residents and visitors. You can experience a diverse range of cuisines from around the world.

The area boasts several luxurious hotels, attracting international tourists and high-profile guests. It is one of London’s most desirable neighborhoods for those seeking luxurious living.

Knightsbridge is well-connected to the rest of London through various transport options, including the Knightsbridge Underground Station (served by the Piccadilly line) and several bus routes.

Best places to stay in London in Knightsbridge:

• Luxury ($$$): Knightsbridge Hotel, Firmdale Hotels , 5-star hotel is located in a quiet street in the heart of London, within a short walk from Hyde Park, Harrods and the international designer stores of Sloane Street and Brompton Cross.
• Luxury ($$$): Beaufort House – Knightsbridge , luxury serviced apartments situated in Beaufort Gardens, a quiet tree-lined Regency terrace in the heart of London’s exclusive Knightsbridge area.
• Luxury ($$$): The Capital Hotel, Apartments & Townhouse , 5-star hotel in the heart of Knightsbridge London, close to Harrods and Harvey Nichols.

3. Belgravia

Belgravia is a safe and affluent district in Central London . It is located in the City of Westminster and is bordered by Hyde Park to the northwest, Buckingham Palace to the east, Chelsea to the south, and Knightsbridge to the west.

Historically, Belgravia was developed in the early 19th century by the Grosvenor family, who owned the vast estate of the area. The name Belgravia comes from one of their subsidiary titles, Viscount Belgrave. 

The district was planned and designed by architect Thomas Cubitt, who created a grid of grand terraces and garden squares, giving it a distinctive and elegant architectural style.

Belgravia is characterized by its stately white stucco townhouses, private garden squares, and tree-lined streets . It is considered one of the most prestigious and expensive residential areas in London, attracting wealthy residents and international investors.

In addition to its residential appeal, Belgravia is also home to exclusive boutiques, fine-dining restaurants, and high-end amenities. 

Some of the notable landmarks and attractions in Belgravia include Belgrave Square, Eaton Square, Elizabeth Street, and the shopping area of Motcomb Street.

The area is well-connected by public transportation, with several Underground stations nearby, including Victoria, Knightsbridge, and Sloane Square , making it easy to access other parts of London.

Belgravia has a wide range of accommodations, ranging from luxury to budget options. It is an ideal neighborhood for visitors seeking a c entral safe location, easy access to public transportation, and attractions. 

Best places to stay in London in Belgravia:

• Luxury ($$$): The Hari London , 5-star hotel, located a 10 minutes’ walk from Harrods and the Knightsbridge area, a 15-minute walk to the tube at Victoria underground station, offering links to central London.
• Mid-range ($$): The Clermont London, Victoria , 4-star hotel, located in the heart of the of London Victoria, next to London Victoria station. Easy distance from The Apollo and Victoria Palace theaters, Buckingham Palace, Royal Parks, River Thames, Tate Britain.
• Budget ($): The Tophams Hotel , located in a quiet location in the historic Belgravia district, close to London Victoria Station and the Gatwick Express. Short walk from  museums, the theaters of the West End and the shops of Knightsbridge.

4. South Kensington

South Kensington is a safe and vibrant neighborhood located in the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea. It is well-known for its cultural attractions, beautiful architecture, and prestigious educational institutions .

South Kensington is one of the best areas to stay in London for family and kids due to its central location, safety, family-friendly museums and parks. 

The area is home to several world-class museums that form the Museum Quarter . The most famous ones are:

• The Natural History Museum , a vast collection of natural specimens, including fossils, minerals, and exhibits on various aspects of the natural world.
• The Science Museum , featuring exhibits on space exploration, computing, transport.
• The Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) , the world’s largest museum of art and design.

Within the neighborhood, you can find the Imperial College London, the Royal Albert Hall, and Hyde Park, one of London’s largest and most famous parks.

Exhibition Road is the central thoroughfare in South Kensington lined with museums, cultural institutions, shops, and cafes, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

The area features upscale shopping opportunities along streets like Brompton Road, where you can find luxury boutiques and designer stores.

South Kensington is characterized by elegant Victorian and Edwardian townhouses , making it a picturesque and affluent residential area.

The neighborhood has a cosmopolitan atmosphere with a diverse population and a wide range of international restaurants , reflecting the city’s multicultural identity.

South Kensington is well-connected by public transportation. The South Kensington tube station, served by the District, Circle, and Piccadilly lines, provides easy access to other parts of London.

Best places to stay in London in South Kensington:

• Luxury ($$$): The Exhibitionist Hotel , 5-star luxury boutique hotel in front of the Natural History Museum, in the heart of South Kensington. Short walk from the V&A Museum, Science Museum, Albert Hall, Knightsbridge, Sloane Street, Harvey Nichols and Harrods.
• Mid-range ($$): Meliá London Kensington Member of Meliá Collection , 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of fashionable Kensington, a short walk from Gloucester Road Tube Station, with links to  Westminster and the South Bank.
• Budget ($): 54 Queen’s Gate Hotel , great hotel in the heart of South Kensington, easy walk from Hyde Park, Kensington Palace, The Natural History and the V&A Museums.

Chelsea along with Knightsbridge and Kensington is one of the safest neighborhoods of London for tourists . It is a highly affluent and fashionable area, known for its elegant architecture, upscale shops, and vibrant cultural scene. 

Chelsea is bordered by the River Thames to the south, Belgravia and Knightsbridge to the north, Earl’s Court to the west, and South Kensington to the east.

Some notable landmarks and attractions in Chelsea include:

King’s Road . This iconic street is famous for its trendy boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. It has long been associated with the Swinging London fashion and music scene of the 1960s.

Chelsea Physic Garden. Established in 1673, this botanical garden is one of the oldest in London and features a wide variety of plants and herbs.

Chelsea Embankment . A picturesque walkway along the River Thames offering stunning views of the river and the city’s skyline.

Chelsea Old Town Hall . A grand Victorian building that has served as a venue for various events and functions.

There is also a Saatchi Gallery hosting various exhibitions and installations. Additionally, Chelsea FC is one of London’s most successful football clubs, based at Stamford Bridge stadium in Chelsea.

Chelsea has a rich history and has been associated with various famous personalities, artists, and musicians throughout the years. It is also a sought-after residential area due to its central location and upscale living amenities.

Best places to stay in London in Chelsea:

• Luxury ($$$): San Domenico House , a luxurious boutique hotel located a short walk from Sloane Square and fashionable Chelsea. Also close to Victoria Station, Buckingham Palace and Hyde Park.
• Mid-range ($$): 11 Cadogan Gardens , a townhouse building located just off Sloane Square in the heart of Chelsea.
• Budget ($): Sloane Place , boutique hotel in central London, close to many things.

6. Covent Garden

Covent Garden is a popular area for first-time visitors because it is located in the heart of London, England. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere, rich history, and diverse range of attractions. 

Covent Garden is considered safe during the day and into the evening . However, like in any touristy area, it’s advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to prevent pickpocketing and tourist scams.

Covent Garden has a long history dating back to the 17th century. Originally a fruit and vegetable market, it later evolved into a center for entertainment and shopping. The market moved to a new location in 1974, and the old market buildings were redeveloped into a thriving commercial and cultural district.

The Covent Garden Piazza is the main focal point of the area, surrounded by charming arcades filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place to relax, people-watch, and enjoy street performances by talented musicians and street artists.

Although the original fruit and vegetable market is no longer there, the area is still home to the Covent Garden Market, an indoor market selling various goods, including artisanal products, crafts, clothing, and unique gifts.

Covent Garden is home to the Royal Opera House , one of the world’s most famous opera and ballet venues. It hosts performances by the Royal Ballet and the Royal Opera, attracting visitors from all over the globe.

The area around Covent Garden boasts a wide range of theaters and performance venues. From West End musicals to classic plays, there’s always something happening on stage.

Covent Garden offers a mix of high-end designer boutiques, independent shops, and well-known brand stores , making it a fantastic shopping destination.

The dining options in Covent Garden are diverse, catering to all tastes and budgets . You can find everything from traditional British pubs to international cuisine from around the world.

Covent Garden is well-connected by public transport. The Covent Garden tube station (Piccadilly Line) is conveniently located in the area, making it easy to reach other parts of London.

Overall, Covent Garden is a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike, offering a unique blend of culture, entertainment, and shopping experiences in the heart of London.

Best places to stay in London in Covent Garden:

• Luxury ($$$): The Savoy , 5-star hotel set on the banks of the Thames, an easy walk from The British Museum and The Royal Opera House, with some of the city’s best-known restaurants and bars, including Simpson’s-In-The-Strand, Gordon Ramsay’s Savoy Grill and The River Restaurant, serving UK’s finest shellfish and seafood. 
• Mid-range ($$): The Henrietta Hotel , great 4-star hotel, close to Royal Opera House and Arts Theatre.
• Budget ($): Assembly Covent Garden , centrally located near the Charing Cross Road, Trafalgar Square, and Shaftesbury Avenue.
• Where to Stay in London for First Time
• best areas to stay in London on a budget
• How To Manage Transportation for 4 Days in London
• What to Wear in London? – a Simple Guidlines

In conclusion, Mayfair, Knightsbridge, Belgravia, South Kensington, Chelsea, and Covent Garden are the safest places to stay in London for tourists .They are all the best areas for first-time visitors due to their central locations, safety, wide range of tourist amenities, and excellent connections to public transportations. 

Mayfair suits luxury seekers, Knightsbridge for shoppers, Belgravia for upscale living, South Kensington for cultural enthusiasts, Chelsea for vibrant city life, and Covent Garden for art and entertainment lovers. Choose your ideal haven wisely!

Remember that while these areas are generally safe, it’s always wise to be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep your belongings secure. It’s also a good idea to check for any updated safety information from local authorities before your trip.

About Author: Linda Smith

I'm Linda Smith, the Hotel Expert, an experienced travel blogger who passionate about traveling. I'm here to share with you all my travel experiences and tips. I cover a wide range of travel topics, specializing in sharing information about the best areas, neighborhoods, and hotels in each city. I hope all these things will make your travel easier.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Foreign travel advice

Get advice about travelling abroad, including the latest information on coronavirus, safety and security, entry requirements and travel warnings.

Countries or territories

226 Countries or territories

Countries starting with A

• Afghanistan
• Antarctica/British Antarctic Territory
• Antigua and Barbuda

Countries starting with B

• Bonaire/St Eustatius/Saba
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Indian Ocean Territory
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso

Countries starting with C

• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Cook Islands, Tokelau and Niue
• Côte d'Ivoire
• Czech Republic

Countries starting with D

• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Dominican Republic

Countries starting with E

• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea

Countries starting with F

• Falkland Islands
• Federated States of Micronesia
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia

Countries starting with G

• Guinea-Bissau

Countries starting with H

Countries starting with i, countries starting with j, countries starting with k, countries starting with l.

• Liechtenstein

Countries starting with M

• Marshall Islands
• Myanmar (Burma)

Countries starting with N

• Netherlands
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• North Korea
• North Macedonia

Countries starting with O

Countries starting with p.

• The Occupied Palestinian Territories
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Pitcairn Island

Countries starting with Q

Countries starting with r, countries starting with s.

• São Tomé and Principe
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
• South Korea
• South Sudan
• St Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Martin and St Barthélemy
• St Pierre & Miquelon
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland

Countries starting with T

• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands

Countries starting with U

• United Arab Emirates

Countries starting with V

Countries starting with w.

• Wallis and Futuna
• Western Sahara

Countries starting with Y

Countries starting with z, get updates for all countries, is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

Hi, I'm Candace

Candace Abroad

A London & Travel Blog

London , London Travel Tips & Inspiration , Moving to London Advice & Resources , Travel · August 16, 2023

Is London Safe? 10 Safety Tips for Solo Female Travelers (2024)

Table of Contents

Is London safe? Here’s my personalized tips to navigate your time in London — especially as a solo female traveler!

This post may contain affiliate links. Check out my  Disclosure & Privacy Policy  for more information.

One of the top questions I get in my DM’s (almost always from women) is “Is London safe?”

As home to nearly 9 million, navigating the city alone can seem daunting. But don’t fret. In general I’d say London is pretty safe and currently sits as the 20th safest city in the world , but it’s always important to keep your wits about you.

Whether you’re in London for a solo trip or moving to London alone, here’s 10 safety tips for your time in London.

Coming on a Solo Trip to London? Grab my Ebook!

The solo traveller’s guide to london 📚.

A 65-page guidebook on absolutely everything you need to know to plan the perfect solo trip to London, plus 5 custom London itineraries to use on your trip!

1. Beware of Pickpocketers 

A year ago I was on a night out in Soho when a group of young men walked by and tried to take my friend’s phone out of her pocket.

This all happened within a split second as my friend said she felt someone reaching into her coat and quickly turned around. They were gone by the time we could realize what happened. 

This story isn’t too uncommon in London as pickpocketers are always on the lookout for unassuming Londoners and tourists.

Keep your belongings out of easily reachable places (like your pocket) and always be on alert of anyone getting too close, especially if they’re in a group. 

2. Don’t Drink Too Much Alone 

I can only speak from my own experience. But ending up alone after a night of drinking in London is not ideal.

It doesn’t take long in the London nightlife scene to notice that lurkers are real. Usually hidden in the corners of a bar or club, you’ll see men with no other agenda than to prey on the most intoxicated woman of the night.

Always be mindful of your drinking limits, and if you do end up going home alone from a night out, opt for an Uber over the night tube, especially if you’re a far walk from your closest station. 

3. Don’t Leave Your Belongings in Coffee Shops 

It can be uber tempting to leave your laptop sitting out at your favorite London coffee shop while you order or leaving your bag down while you pop to the lou. But the risk of losing your stuff is never worth it. 

I’ve definitely been guilty of this, and thankfully nothing has happened yet . But if I ever came back to my chair and my laptop was missing, I would easily lose it. Plus businesses are responsible for any theft.

I would also steer clear of asking someone to watch your stuff, but you can see if they’ll save your seat for you while you’re gone.  

P.S – Looking for London luggage storage while you’re on your solo trip? I highly suggest Nannybag luggage storage in London . Simply book a storage spot near you through their app or website, drop off your luggage and get back to solo exploring London! Perfect if you’re looking for a safe space to keep your things before checking in or checking out of your accommodation in the city.

4. Choose the Right Area

Although London is generally safe, theres is still a lot of crime that goes on, particularly in certain areas.

With that said, it’s best to do your own independent research and make sure you’re comfortable with the area. For example, Camden is on the list of the top most dangerous boroughs in London. But I’ve been to Camden more times than I can count (day and night) and never had an issue. So always do what’s best for you and your comfort level!

Read More: The Best Neighborhoods to Live in London and 17 Cool Things to do in Camden 

5. know your numbers.

If you’re coming to London from outside the UK you should definitely familarize yourself with the emergency numbers.

For the police, ambulance or fire department in London, call 999 or 112. These numbers are free and should be called immediately in case of an emergency. 

If it’s not an emergency but you’d still like to speak to someone, you can call 101 and they’ll connect you to your nearest police station. 

Moving to London? Check out my  E-book! 

6. Don’t Wear Headphones at Night 

I love walking to music. But since moving to London, I’ve realized it’s never a good idea to seem too preoccupied.

This includes wearing headphones when you’re walking, specifically at night. City living is all about being alert and not looking like a target.

The risk of not hearing your surroundings simply isn’t worth it. Save the music for home or public transit. 

7. Mind the Gap (and roads)

One of the first things you’ll notice about the UK is cars drive on the left side of the road. Luckily there’s tons of signage, but always be sure to do a double take when crossing.

I can’t count the amount of times I’ve accidentally looked the wrong way and instantly feared for my life. 

It’s the biggest faux pas of any new Londoner, so always stay on the safe side…and look left. 

 8. Check Before you use the ATM

Unfortunately ATM scams are all too common in the capital. Avoid any independent ATM’s and always check over your shoulder before entering your pin. 

I also wouldn’t keep too much cash on me. It’s all too easy to lose a tenner on the tube (guilty as charged) and misplace your pound coins. So stick to your card/contactless or Apple Pay when possible. 

Read More: 27 Effortless Ways to Save Money in London  

9. stay neutral .

As a solo female traveler or just a woman living in London, you’re bound to be approached in some capacity. This could range from harmless hello’s to slightly aggressive approaches. But in my opinion, it’s always best to not engage and stay neutral . 

And if someone asks where you’re staying for your time in London, say you don’t know the name of the area.

10. Know Your Route

One of the biggest things that separates a naive tourist from a local is the way you walk.

Always look confident with where you’re going, and if you’re in London, walk fast. To do this, it always helps to know at least some your route before you travel. I always look up directions on Citymapper and try to avoid looking at my phone for directions. 

I hope these tips were helpful! If you have anymore questions about safety in London be sure to ping me at @candaceabroad .  

Safe travels, 

Love London?

Subscribe for the latest London travel content and fall in love with the city all over again — straight to your lovely inbox.

Get on the List

You’ll also love.

January 8, 2021 at 2:04 pm

These are great tips Candace! I love listening to music/podcast while walking, but you’re right – it’s SO important to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night!

January 8, 2021 at 8:20 pm

Me too! But alas, safety first 🙂

Latest from Instagram

Follow @candaceabroad

Moving to London? Check out my Digital Moving Guide!

join the monthly newsletter

Subscribe for itinerary inspiration, travel inspo & exclusive content straight to your lovely inbox.

Affiliate disclosure

Theme by 17th Avenue Designs

Disclosure & Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2024 Candace Abroad Theme by 17th Avenue

Sightseeing Tour

Is London Safe To Travel Alone? Tips for solo travelers

London is a great place to visit if you're taking a vacation by yourself since it provides ample opportunities to reflect on your own life, develop your sense of independence, and push the boundaries of your comfort zone. In this busy national capital, you'll never have a dull moment or feel lonely. With a population of eight million, London is a great place to meet people and establish friends if you're traveling solo, especially if you understand English. To get the most out of your trip with minimal stress, we advise signing up for any of the provided   London tours with Vox City. London is a city that's full of history, culture, and endless things to see and do. London is generally a safe city for solo travelers, but it's still important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions. One of the best things you can do is trust your instincts - if something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. When traveling at night, stick to well-lit and busy areas, and consider taking a taxi or public transportation instead of walking alone. It's also important to keep your valuables secure, especially in crowded places like public transportation and tourist attractions.  If you're planning a solo travel to London, there are few better ways to explore it than by taking a  London sightseeing tour with Vox City. With their expertise in city tours London, this metropolis will be ideally brought to life by their knowledgeable guides who will show you the best sights and hidden gems. Whether you want to discover the city's most famous landmarks or explore its lesser-known corners, Vox City has a range of tours to suit all interests. Their  London walking tour is perfect for those who prefer to explore on foot, with a guide leading you through the city's winding streets and alleys, pointing out hidden treasures along the way.  

Is London safe for females?

Tips for travelling around London safely 

The cost of using London's transportation system is reasonable, and the system itself is reliable and easy to navigate. Here are some of the best ways to get around the capital, whether you like to travel fast by tube or leisurely on foot.

Our Top Picks

London: Landmarks Walking Tour

• Houses of Parliament 
• Parliament Square & More

London: Harry Potter Walking Tour

• Great Scotland Yard 
• Trafalgar Square 
• Goodwin's Court & More

Traveling around London on foot

Taking a stroll is, without question, the greatest way to take in the sights of London. The London Eye, Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Tower Bridge are all within walking distance of one another, making sightseeing in London a breeze. Staying above ground between each location allows you to view more than you bargained for, and there are street-side maps on practically every corner so you won't get lost. Keep a watch on your belongings while you stroll, just as you would in any major metropolis.  

Explore by Bus: Hop-on Hop-off with public local buses

• Trafalgar Square
• Victoria Station 
•  Kensington & More

Travelling around London on public transport

What should solo female travelers wear in London?

You can wear anything you like! Anything goes in London, and you'll quickly discover that even the most outlandish ensembles usually go unnoticed. The London climate is notoriously unpredictable. In one moment, you may be wishing you had brought your shades, and in the next, you may be ducking into the nearest store to escape the unexpected deluge. Wearing layers allows you to shed or add garments as needed to maintain a comfortable temperature. Plus, don't forget to pack an umbrella! The bustling capital of the United Kingdom offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity that can be a delight for solo travelers. However, you might be wondering, "Is London safe to travel alone?" The short answer is yes, but like any major city, it's important to be well-prepared and informed.

Is London Safe for Solo Travelers?

• • Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times to prevent theft, Choose well-reviewed hotels or hostels in safe neighborhoods. Research online and read reviews to ensure you're staying in a secure environment.  
• • While London is relatively safe, some areas may have higher crime rates. Be cautious when venturing out at night and avoid poorly lit or deserted areas.  
• • Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, your embassy, and friends or family members who know your itinerary.  
• • Consider getting a local SIM card with data to stay connected and use maps and translation apps. This can be immensely helpful in case of emergencies.  

Solo Things to Do in London

Traveling alone provides a unique opportunity to embrace your interests fully. Here are some solo-focused activities to consider:  

• • Capture the city's beauty at your own pace. London's architecture, street art, and scenic views make it a paradise for photographers.  
• • Download audio guides and explore the city on your own schedule. Discover hidden gems and interesting facts about London.  
• • Find a peaceful spot in one of London's many parks and enjoy a good book. It's a perfect way to relax and recharge.  
• • Enroll in a short course or workshop on topics of interest, from cooking to art and music.  
• • Join local Meetup groups for solo travelers to connect with like-minded people and participate in group activities.

London is undoubtedly a welcoming destination for solo travelers, offering a wide range of experiences and safety measures to ensure your trip is memorable and secure. By following these tips and exploring the city at your own pace, you'll create lasting memories in the heart of England's capital. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on your solo adventure in London!  Using the free Vox City app , visitors to this trendy nation's capital can locate additional great self-guided trails in and around the city (included with your ticket).

Related Blogs

Mistakes People Make When Visiting London

Are you making your first trip to the UK? Or perhaps you simply want to brush up on your London travel knowledge. London's apparently limitless sights, fantastic restaurants, and lively bars and sh...

A Walking Tour of London's Top Landmarks and Icons: From Big Ben to the Tower Bridge

Introduction London, the bustling and vibrant capital city of England, is a global hub for commerce, culture, and entertainment. Known for its rich history and diverse communities, London is a cit...

London Buses: best way to tour London City

Are you thinking about visiting London and would like to take one of the numerous available bus tours around the city? There are a plethora of options out there, and it's natural to wonder how to n...

The World At Your Fingertips.

Experience what it's like to Discover the world with the Vox City App.

Exclusive discounts and travel inspiration

Weekly in your inbox, daily in your feed

Explore the World

Avoid These Tourist Traps In London And Visit These Destinations Instead

O ne of the world's greatest cities, London is packed with tourist attractions so impressive that you'll want to add them all to your itinerary. From the Tower of London to Buckingham Palace to the Churchill War Rooms, the list of unmissable landmarks seems endless. Don't worry, though -- it's possible to visit most of them in just a two-day trip . When you're on a tight schedule, it's important to avoid time- and money-wasting tourist traps in favor of visiting sites that are worthy of your attention. 

Whether it's an overrated and overpriced wax museum, a kitschy dungeon experience, or a super crowded viewpoint, there are many places to avoid visiting in the U.K.'s heady capital. The confusing part? Some of them top multiple lists of must-see attractions. That's where we come in. 

As someone who lived in this captivating English city for six years, I have first-hand knowledge of the biggest tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London. Plus, I can offer more impressive (and often less costly) destinations to visit instead. Don't want to take my word for it? No problem. I combined my first-hand knowledge with reviews and suggestions from other locals to create this list.

Read more: 50 Underrated Tourist Destinations Around The World

Skip Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours And Ride A London Bus

While hop-on hop-off bus tours can be a convenient way to explore a big city, they often come with a hefty price tag. If the tour is based in London, you can expect to pay over $50 per adult for a one-day pass. Instead, board a London bus, which will cost less than $7 for a day of travel. Bus fare for one ride is about $2 and the daily cap is under $7. To pay for their ride, visitors must use a contactless card or an Oyster Card, the visitor's version of which can be purchased online and mailed to your home before you leave.

Double-decker London buses offer spectacular city views, with many routes passing right by London's landmark attractions. One of our faves is the historic Routemaster Bus 15, which we suggest boarding at the Tower of London. Hop on at Great Tower Street (Stop TT) and ride west to Charing Cross Station. Be sure to sit up top for the best views along this heritage route -– you can't miss St. Paul's Cathedral and Trafalgar Square. 

Bus 24 is another great option for sightseers. Hop on at Victoria Station and ride it to Camden High Street. Along the way, you'll pass Westminster Abbey, the Horse Guard's Parade, Trafalgar Square, and Downing Street. Grab a bite at Camden Market when you disembark or stay on until you reach Hampstead Heath where you can catch unbeatable views of the city.

Skip Madame Tussauds And Visit Buckingham Palace

It may tout itself as a top London attraction, but Madame Tussauds would be more honest if they said they were the top rip-off site. Booking in advance will save some money -- the standard online rate for an adult begins at just over $47 versus the walk-up price, which begins at almost $60. But that's still a lot of quid to dish out for wandering around an overcrowded and noisy space filled with okay-ish wax replicas of A- and B-list celebs. Yes, it's fun to take photos with the royal family and fool friends into thinking you met them IRL, but is it worth it? We don't think so.

Instead, we suggest visiting Buckingham Palace for a potential King Charles III sighting. Realistically, you probably won't spy a royal outside the palace, but at least you'll see a historic monument up close. Celebrities more your thing? Book a reservation at one of the city's most popular restaurants. Chiltern Firehouse has hosted acting greats Jennifer Lawrence and Bradley Cooper as well as soccer superstar David Beckham. 34 Mayfair is another good bet for great food and celeb spotting. Imelda Staunton and royal family members have all eaten here.

Skip Changing Of The Guard And Visit The Queen's Gallery

While you should add Buckingham Palace to your list of must-see London tourist attractions, you may want to avoid a visit during the Changing of the Guard. This formal ceremony marks the change between the old guard (on-duty soldiers) and new guard (soldiers taking over duty) for the royal palaces. Marching with a band from Wellington Barracks to the Palace, the new guard will arrive at the palace at about 10:45 a.m. A well-known event, this is a big tourist draw, which means you can expect hefty crowds queuing up an hour or more in advance, as well as pickpockets who arrive to take advantage of the chaotic atmosphere. This tourist trap, which takes place every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday, is one you'll be happy to miss. Sadly, watching this famed ceremony these days feels more like witnessing an overhyped marching band than it does an esteemed historic ritual.

Instead, ditch the crowds and glimpse art from the Royal Collection in the Queen's Gallery or visit the Royal Mews , where you can see the royal stables and the 260-year-old Gold State Coach used at King Charles III's Coronation. The Mews are open Thursday through Monday from early March to early November. Neighboring St. James Park is another interesting place to visit. One of London's famed Royal Parks, it is bordered by three palaces and boasts a fabulous view of Buckingham Palace in particular.

Skip Platform 9 ¾ At King's Cross Station And Visit Warner Brothers Studio Tour London

If you're traveling with a Harry Potter-obsessed kid, you may want to visit Platform 9 ¾ at King's Cross Station. But if you're alone, or with other adults who couldn't care less, we advise you to skip this overrated tourist trap. If you're already planning to be in King's Cross Station and have time to scope out this attraction, that's one thing; but if you're traveling there with the sole purpose of visiting this site, think twice. 

Set between platforms 9 and 10 (obvs) this point of interest includes nothing but a brick wall denoted with a sign. Stuck into the wall is part of a trolley loaded with fake suitcases and an empty owl cage. Those hoping for a quick photo and to score some Potter swag will be pleased;  the Harry Potter Shop at Platform 9 ¾ is open daily, even on bank holidays, and it sells everything from wands to clothes to makeup. 

For those who'd rather have an unforgettable and truly magical Harry Potter experience, though, head to Warner Brothers Studio Tour London -- The Making of Harry Potter in nearby Leavesden. Instead of merely looking at a wall, visitors can board the Hogwarts Express, "fly" on a broomstick, walk through the Great Hall, and explore the Forbidden Forest. Step foot in Diagon Alley, try a Butterbeer, or check out some of the film's famous props and costumes. You won't be sorry you visited.

Skip London Dungeon And Visit The Tower Of London

No matter how much the kids beg you to visit the London Dungeon, stay strong and just say "no." This kitschy tourist trap is a waste of your hard-earned money (tickets start at over $37 for adults) and it's so hokey you'll roll your eyes more times than you can count on both hands. This pitiful attraction is peppered with costume-clad actors who like to scream and cackle and its two rides (the Drop Dead: Drop Ride and the Tyrant Boat Ride) will make you wish you were at Walt Disney World; even "It's a Small World" would be more enjoyable. An escape room has also been added to increase the venue's income stream –- it costs $153 for a private game for six people.

Want a historic experience with a side of chills? Head to the Tower of London instead. There, you can tour the Torture at the Tower Exhibition, where you can get up close and personal with the stretching machine (a.k.a. the rack) and other ancient torture devices in the Lower Wakefield Tower. The Bloody Tower is another point of interest you won't want to miss. The most infamous prison on the grounds, this is where you'll learn about the alleged murder of two young princes -– Edward V and his little brother Richard –- by their uncle, Richard III.

Skip The London Bridge Experience And Visit Churchill War Rooms

Looking for a good spooking? Do yourself a favor and skip The London Bridge Experience. A tourist trap designed to bring the city's macabre history to life with the help of actors with a penchant for jump scares, you can expect to meet zombie-like versions of ghastly heavyweights Jack the Ripper and William Wallace during your visit. Tickets cost about $37 for the experience, which takes anywhere between 35 and 50 minutes. That means you could be spending more than $1 a minute. Entry fees also include a trip to the London Tombs, deemed the U.K.'s "best scare attraction," according to their site . Zombified dentists, doctors, and creepy clowns await visitors in the lower vaults of this venue, ready to pounce and scream in your face.

Instead, we suggest visiting the Churchill War Rooms. Also located underground, this fascinating historic facility is part of the Imperial War Museums. Located in the basement of Whitehall, this once-secret complex was used by former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, top government ministers, and military planners to conduct meetings and develop plans during the country's war effort during World War II. Known as the Cabinet War Rooms, this clandestine spot was used daily during the war, until August 16, 1945. Or experience that stomach drop feeling by walking the glass floors at Tower Bridge. Set nearly 138 feet above the Thames, the views are both terrifying and impressive. Tickets cost under $16 per adult. 

Skip The Sherlock Holmes Museum And Visit The Sherlock Holmes Pub

We don't recommend visiting the Sherlock Holmes Museum unless you have a detective-obsessed kid who doesn't realize that the famed character is fictional. Set inside a Georgian townhouse at 221B Baker Street in Marylebone, this four-story museum has been open since 1990. Inside lie antique furnishings mentioned in the books and pretty creepy-looking mannequins. Tickets cost over $21 which isn't exorbitant, especially for London, but considering you won't be there long (the museum's quite small), this seems a bit of a waste.

Instead, head to The Sherlock Holmes  in St James. Self-described as a "Victorian-themed public house," this watering hole features a recreated version of the famed fictional detective's apartment upstairs. The entire pub is dotted with references to Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved books, making it easy to feel as if you're within the pages. Plus, there's a beer garden –- the museum certainly doesn't have one of those.

Skip The SEA Life London Aquarium And Visit The London Zoo

You'll find everything you'd expect to see at the SEA Life London Aquarium. From penguins to sharks to turtles, they're all there. And as far as aquariums go, this is a pretty good one. But when you're in one of the world's greatest cities that lies on the banks of a river, not an ocean, there are plenty of better things to see. Standard tickets to the Sea Life London Aquarium cost $24 online or $51 at the door. Again, that's pretty on par for London attractions, however, it's a steep price to pay for a tourist trap. 

Instead, visit London Zoo in Regent's Park. The oldest scientific zoo in the world, this family-friendly attraction was opened in 1828 for fellows of the Zoological Society of London. In 1847, the public was invited to visit. Today, the zoo is home to 14,0000 animals including a giant, 425-pound silverback gorilla, Sumatran tigers, and Linne's two-toed sloths. While tickets aren't cheap (an adult will cost about $40 to visit on a weekday), it's easy to spend a whole day here. Or, if you aren't willing to part with that much cash, visit the smaller, and lesser-known, Battersea Park Children's Zoo . Adult tickets are more reasonably priced, at $16. There are over 100 animals at this little zoo, including wallabies, meerkats, otters, and lemurs, and plenty of opportunities to interact with animals like coatis, donkeys, and goats.

Skip The Shard And Visit Level 10 At The Tate Modern

There's no denying that The Shard is impressive. In fact, it's one of the most spectacular buildings in the world . The viewing platform was opened by the queen on February 1, 2013, with the main restaurants (Aqua, Oblix, and Hutong) following suit that summer. Set across the Thames from another bucket-list-worthy London building, the Gherkin, this engineering masterpiece towers 1,016 feet above the city and boasts 11,000 glass panels. 

Dubbed a "vertical city," there's plenty to do inside, like spend serious coin on a meal with a view, or zip up one of the 44 elevators to the viewing platform. That 360-degree view will cost you, though -- about $36, or more if you add a glass of champagne. And if you visit on a day that's rainy or misty (honestly, London is often both of those things), you're basically paying for a ride in a lift.

Instead, head to Level 10 at Tate Modern, where you can enjoy a drink or snack (including sandwiches and salads) while ogling the impressive view of the Thames, St. Paul's Cathedral, the BT Tower, and Blackfriar's Bridge. You won't have to pay a thing unless you choose to grab a bite or a warm cuppa. The Skygarden at 20 Fenchurch Street is another must-visit for a free skyline vista. The highest public garden in London, this leafy space is as stunning as its views are remarkable.

Skip The London Eye And Visit Hamstead Heath

We are well aware that some of you will disagree with this addition to our list of tourist traps to avoid when traveling to London, but hear us out. Yes, the London Eye is iconic. Yes, it offers fantastic views of the city. And yes, it's deemed a top London attraction you won't want to miss . That said, visiting this popular landmark can cause more headaches than enjoyment. First created as a temporary point of interest, this 443-foot-tall, "cantilevered observation wheel" is the largest of its kind in the world, according to its website . And if you catch a ride on one of its 32 pods on a sunny day, you can see up to 25 miles in all directions. The problem is that thousands of others have the same idea, which means you could stand in line for more than two hours on a particularly busy day. Standard tickets start at over $32 online or more than $57 for a walk-up.

Instead, visit Hampstead Heath for a unique city view you probably never knew existed. Parliament Hill stands over 321 feet tall, making it one of the highest natural points in the city. If the weather is ideal, you can see to the Gherkin, St. Paul's Cathedral, and the Houses of Parliament. Speaking of the Gherkin, it's another great spot to enjoy unparalleled views. Grab a drink and snack at Iris Bar at Searcys at the Gherkin , then relax with a side order of stunning vistas.

Skip Harrods And Visit Peter Jones And Liberty

Harrods is to London as the Colosseum is to Rome -– a historic icon that's become synonymous with the city. The world's most famous luxury department store, this Knightsbridge institution is impossible to miss -– it's eight floors tall and an entire block long, not to mention over one million square feet in size. Inside, you'll find 20 restaurants, a beauty salon, a bank, and 300 separate departments selling over 5,000 brands. You'll also see price tags so high you might suffer sticker shock. Due to its notoriety, Harrods is often packed with tourists, making it difficult to enjoy the plush interior.

If you're hoping to shop during your London holiday, there are plenty of excellent places to visit instead. Sloane Square is home to the Peter Jones & Partners department store. Owned by John Lewis, this vast shop is filled with enough enticing merchandise that you'll find it tough to leave empty-handed. Grab a bite at The Top Floor Restaurant (on the 6 th floor) for captivating views of Chelsea and beyond.

Liberty is another recognizable landmark located on Regent Street. A heritage-listed building; this stunning Tudor-style store is as beautiful outside as it is indoors. Built between 1922 and 1924, it is worth a visit, if only to admire the impressive architectural features (the price tags here are also quite shocking).

Our Ranking Methodology

Having lived in London for six years with two young children, I visited pretty much every tourist attraction the city has. From renowned points of interest like the Tower of London to remarkable museums, I've seen the top sightseeing destinations multiple times, including many kitschy tourist traps I wish I'd skipped. To create this list, I used my experiences at these attractions to determine which locales are tourist traps that should be avoided and I included alternatives that are more than worthy of your time and money. I also consulted reviews from other locals and travelers, as well as their tips, to ensure the list is solid.

Read the original article on Explore .

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

Heathrow urges government to scrap £10 fee for transit passengers

London hub says charge for overseas travellers using UK airports puts country at competitive disadvantage

Heathrow has called on the government to scrap a new £10 charge for overseas travellers using UK airports to connect to other flights, warning that it puts UK airports at a competitive disadvantage compared with other European rivals.

The government introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) in November for Qatari nationals travelling to the UK from Qatar, with a wider rollout for other countries throughout 2024.

The ETA is largely based on the US Electronic System for Travel Authorization (Esta) system, and requires travellers to apply to enter the country before departing and pay a £10 fee.

This applies not only to direct flights from the country but also for those who are using UK airports for more than two hours to connect to other flights.

Heathrow said while it supported the overall rationale behind the ETA, transiting passengers needed to be exempted as this was hitting passenger numbers.

The airport pointed to the impact it had on travellers from Qatar – it said there had been 19,000 fewer transit passengers coming through the airport in the first four months of ETA rules applying. It added that each month recorded the lowest proportion of transiting passengers from the country for 10 years.

The update said: “This is a huge blow to UK competitiveness as many long-haul routes, which are highly important to the UK’s economy, exports and wider connectivity, rely on transit passengers. With more connecting passengers expected to choose other hubs as the scheme expands, minsters need to take action to remove this measure.”

Heathrow recorded its busiest Easter weekend this year, with 936,000 passengers using the airport across the bank holiday period. This contributed to 7 million people travelling through the London hub in March, the highest ever for that month.

The chief executive, Thomas Woldbye, said: “The government needs to exempt airside transit passengers from the ETA scheme to avoid encouraging passengers to spend and do business elsewhere. We need to level the playing field, so the UK aviation industry continues to be world class.”

A Home Office spokesperson said: “We are introducing an electronic travel authorisation scheme to enhance border security by increasing our knowledge about those seeking to come to the UK and preventing the arrival of those who pose a threat.

“Requiring transit passengers to obtain an ETA stops people who may use connecting flights to avoid gaining permission to travel to the UK. We are keeping this under review as we continue to roll out the scheme.”

• Airline industry
• Heathrow airport
• Air transport
• Transport policy

More on this story

United Airlines blames Boeing problems for $200m hit to earnings

EasyJet and Wizz Air cancel flights to Tel Aviv after Iran attack on Israel

Two passenger planes clip wings at Heathrow

Heathrow returns to profit with record passenger numbers forecast for 2024

BA, easyJet and Wizz Air resume flights to and from Israel

Saudi Arabia could take ‘effective majority control’ of London Heathrow

Dutch airline KLM misled customers with vague green claims, court rules

Saudi Arabia’s wealth fund takes 10% stake in Heathrow airport

Strong winds and staff shortages causing delays at Heathrow airport

EasyJet joins calls for UK government to help fund hydrogen-powered flight

Most viewed.

Major Middle East airlines to resume flights after Iran's attack on Israel

• Medium Text

The Reuters Daily Briefing newsletter provides all the news you need to start your day. Sign up here.

Reporting by Federico Maccioni and Jana Choukeir in Dubai; Adam Makary and Muhammad Al Gebaly in Cairo; Editing by Alex Richardson, Sharon Singleton and Jan Harvey

Our Standards: The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles. New Tab , opens new tab

World Chevron

Haitian groups seek billions in reparations from France

France should repay billions of dollars in reparations to Haiti to cover a debt formerly enslaved people were forced to pay in return for recognising the island's independence, a coalition of civil society groups said on Thursday.

Traveling between Europe and Asia will take longer as airlines reroute flights after Iran’s attack on Israel

Airlines are weighing an ever narrowing set of options to fly between Europe and Asia after grappling with airspace shutdowns in the wake of the first direct Iranian attack on Israel from its soil.

Several Middle Eastern countries including  Jordan , Iraq and Lebanon temporarily closed their airspace as Iran launched drones and missiles. Both Israel and Iran also imposed restrictions on airline traffic over theirs.

A number of airlines are rerouting or avoiding trouble spots in a series of decisions that will prolong flight times and add to fuel costs. They include Qantas Airways Ltd., Singapore Airlines Ltd. and Deutsche Lufthansa AG.

Qatar Airways and Emirates resumed some suspended Middle Eastern services on Sunday as airspaces reopened. 

Iran’s airspace is frequently utilized by airlines traveling between Europe and India or Southeast Asia.  Airspace  across the Middle East are littered with risks and complexities. Airlines are contending with a set of challenges after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine severed access for many carriers forcing lengthy diversions which exist to this day.

Earlier in Israel’s war against Hamas in Gaza, airlines faced scores of disruptions primarily centered on Tel Aviv, cancelling flights into or out of the country.

Israel shut down its airspace for both domestic and international routes on Saturday, before reopening them Sunday morning. Lebanon and Iraq too resumed flights over their territories.

The latest diversions come as Israel and its allies, led by the US, fended off Iran’s response to a  suspected Israeli attack  on Iran’s embassy in Syria on April 1, which killed a top military commander. Iran said on Saturday its forces seized an Israel-linked container ship near the Strait of Hormuz.

Days earlier, Lufthansa Group  suspended  flights to several cities in the Middle East. The group — whose airlines include Germany’s flag carrier Lufthansa, Austrian Airlines and Swiss International Air Lines — said Sunday that it will resume flights to Tel Aviv, Erbil in Iraq and Amman on Tuesday, while those to Beirut and Tehran will continue to be halted until at least April 18.  

Qantas had  temporarily adjusted  its direct Perth-London flights to stop over in Singapore to account for the extra fuel needed to re-route around the volatile region.

Singapore Air  said  that its flights were not overflying Iranian airspace. Cathay Pacific Ltd. is watching the situation in the Middle East closely, but its operations remain normal, a spokesman said in a text message Sunday.

Latest in Companies

• 0 minutes ago

Venture capital continues Web3 retreat, but Q1 hints at a changing tide

Worldcoin, Sam Altman’s eye-scanning crypto project, announces its own blockchain 

7 people with power at Coinbase

VCs are pouring hundreds of millions of dollars into Bittensor, a little-known AI crypto project

VanEck CEO says brokerage platforms aren’t yet recommending Bitcoin ETFs: ‘There’s a long way to go’

Most popular.

The economy might be booming, but housing is in a recession: Top real estate CEO says he’s never seen anything like it in 20 years

Gen Z favorite Dr. Martens is struggling as its CEO steps down—and it might be because the shoes last too long

Apple loses its spot as the world’s top seller of smartphones after tough China competition from brands like Xiaomi and Huawei

Dropbox’s CEO says managers mandating returns to the office are just ‘mashing the go-back-to-2019 button’ and creating toxic relationships with staff

Luxury brands have a new headache in China: Stingy shoppers are returning their goods, erasing up to 75% of their sales value

Canada will soak the rich with capital gains tax jump to raise billions for housing in market where Gen Z can’t catch a break

Accessibility Links

Airspace closures: how Iran’s attacks have affected flight routes

Drone and missile attacks on israel mean that flights are being rerouted — here’s what you need to know and what to do if your journey is impacted.

I ran’s “retaliatory” strike on Israel last weekend has triggered the greatest disruption to air travel since 9/11, according to one industry expert.

“Not since then have we had a situation with that many different air spaces closed down in that quick succession, and that creates chaos,” says Mark Zee, the founder of the airline operations association OPSGROUP.

Iran, Iraq, Israel, Jordan and Lebanon closed their airspace during the attacks on April 13, and while all technically reopened on April 14, the European Union Aviation Safety Agency recommends that airlines “exercise caution” and notes that “there continues to be an increased potential for miscalculation and/or misidentification at present over Tehran”.

Consequently flights eastwards from Europe have been facing disruption that could potentially get worse if the conflict escalates — especially as available routes are already significantly compromised by the closure of Ukrainian airspace since February 2022.

So if you’re flying to Asia or Australasia in the next few days or weeks, here’s what you need to know.

Advertisement

What is the problem.

Concerns about the safety of flying over a conflict zone are leading airlines to avoid Iranian airspace and seek alternative routes east. The options are to fly north of Iran, through the Stans (Uzbekistan, Pakistan, Tajikistan), or south, via Egypt and the Red Sea. There is, though, a risk that in the event of further conflict between Iran and its allies and Israel, Houthi drone and missile attacks on Israeli targets would overfly Saudi Arabia and force the closure of that airspace too.

Which destinations are affected?

Many airlines, including easyJet, have suspended flights to Israel. Lufthansa has also cancelled departures to Tehran, Beirut and Amman. But the potential for disruption extends beyond the Middle East to many popular destinations east of the Arabian Sea. These include Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, the Philippines, Australia and New Zealand.

• Travel insurance guide: everything you need to know

Which airlines are avoiding Iranian airspace?

Virgin Atlantic says it has “made the decision to temporarily avoid the airspace of Iraq, Iran and Israel, meaning some Virgin Atlantic passenger services between the UK and India will be adjusted. We will continue to monitor the situation and apologise for any inconvenience caused to customers by slightly longer flight times”.

Singapore Airlines is now routing through Central Asia, with the airline warning that “some flights may take slightly longer than usual,” and Malaysian Airlines flights from London — its sole European route — have diverted both to the north and the south of Iran over past days. Qantas’s nonstop route to Perth will now land to refuel at Singapore, and both Air India and Vistara are flying around Iran. Finnair and SAS have also rerouted some Asian departures.

Wizz Air flights from the Abu Dhabi base, however, are still flying over Iran.

• Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? • The latest travel advice for the UAE

What about British Airways?

BA is continuing to operate four times a week to Tel Aviv, with outbound flights stopping in Cyprus en route for a crew change. Its flight departed London on Monday as scheduled. The airline said it is closely monitoring the situation in the country. The Times understands BA was already avoiding Iranian airspace.

How long could I be delayed?

The duration of flights in both directions between Europe and Asia and Australasia has increased due to the extra distance involved in avoiding Iran. The shortest flight time from London to Singapore — avoiding Ukrainian airspace — is about 13½ hours, but diverting south via the Arabian peninsula could push that to about 15 hours. Stops for refuelling can add further delays — Virgin’s VS354 from Heathrow to Mumbai was hit by a five-hour delay for refuelling in Istanbul last Saturday. But in most cases delays appear to be minimal.

Are all flights east affected?

Not necessarily. If you’re transiting through a Middle Eastern hub such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Doha your onward flights to Asia are unlikely to be affected by airspace restrictions over Iran, which lies to the north. But with so many other flights now flying via the Arabian peninsula or Central Asia, there’s a possibility that you may encounter minor delays as air traffic controllers cope with the congestion. Will that cause significant disruption? John Grant at the aviation analyst OAG doesn’t believe so. “It’s certainly going to make the space a bit busier but they can handle the volumes and hopefully this will only be a short-term issue.”

Will flight prices rise?

In the short term that’s unlikely, but if conflict in the Middle East escalates airlines will pass on the increased operating costs to passengers — and it’s not just a matter of the extra fuel burnt rerouting around Iran. Oil prices haven’t increased since the start of the Gaza war simply because production has not been affected, but if Israel targets Iranian infrastructure that could change.

What happens if I miss my connection?

If your flight originated in the UK or the EU, your airline is legally bound to offer assistance with accommodation, onward travel at the earliest opportunity — even if it’s with another airline — and, where appropriate, compensation for delays or denied boarding. For flights into the UK or EU, on airlines registered outside those jurisdictions, no such obligation applies, but in most cases the carriers will do their best to help. In some cases you’ll have to run to catch connections, and be aware that while you may make it on board, your luggage might not.

Can I cancel and get a refund?

In the absence of formal Foreign Office advice against travelling, normal booking conditions apply, so while you may cancel if you wish, you cannot expect a refund.

How will I know if my flight is affected?

Your airline will be in touch.

Related articles

Middle East: Is it safe to travel to holiday destinations as tension escalates?

Are you going to Turkey, Egypt or Israel on holiday? The Foreign Office has warned travellers to several countries to monitor advice after an Iranian attack on Israel pushed tension in the Middle East up another notch.

Thursday 18 April 2024 08:13, UK

Tension in the Middle East has ratcheted up again after Iran's attack on Israel, as the world waits to see how Benjamin Netanyahu's government will respond. 

With the threat of widening conflict, people due to travel through or over the Middle East may be asking if their plans may be impacted.

On Saturday, flight data showed dozens of journeys that would have travelled over the Middle East turned back after Iran fired more than 300 drones and missiles into Israel .

Here is what airlines are saying and the latest safety advice to travellers.

EasyJet scraps Tel Aviv flights

EasyJet has suspended all flights to Tel Aviv over safety concerns.

The budget airline told Sky News it has grounded its flights until 27 October at the earliest "as a result of the continued evolving situation" in the region.

Wizz Air customers could see schedule changes

Wizz Air cancelled flights to Tel Aviv on Sunday 14 and Monday 15 April before resuming its schedule.

But it said customers could experience schedule changes as it closely monitors the situation.

British Airways operating as normal

British Airways - which operates four daily return flights per week between Heathrow and Tel Aviv - said its flights were continuing to operate as planned, but it too was monitoring the situation.

Is it safe to travel to Turkey?

Turkey is a popular holiday destination for people from the UK with the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism saying that last year 3.16 million Britons made the journey there, according to Travel Weekly.

Yet, it borders a number of countries that the Foreign Office advises against travel to.

The vast majority of the country is considered generally safe for tourists, with some exceptions.

The Foreign Office advises against all travel within 10km of the border with Syria , and all but essential travel to the Sirnak and Hakkari provinces.

Is it safe to travel to Israel?

Some parts of Israel are considered "red zones" by the Foreign Office, with the government advising against all travel there.

For the rest of the country - including East Jerusalem and Tel Aviv - the advice is to travel only if it is essential.

Tourist Israel says around 220,000 Britons usually go to the country every year and the Foreign Office is advising against travel close to the border with Gaza, within 5km of the border with Lebanon and within 500m of the border with Syria.

You can see the full updated list of "red zones" on the Foreign Office advice pages.

Occupied Palestinian territories

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Gaza and the West Bank.

Don't travel to Iran, Iraq, Yemen, Lebanon or Syria - Foreign Office

The Foreign Office advises against all travel to Iran, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen.

It advises against all travel to Iraq except to the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), where it advises against all but "essential travel".

Can I safely go on holiday in Egypt?

The main tourist areas in Egypt are generally considered safe, including the capital Cairo, cities along the Nile and Red Sea resorts.

Over 1.5 million British Nationals visit Egypt every year, according to analysts Gitnux, and the areas the Foreign Office warns not to travel to include the Governorate of North Sinai, where the Rafah crossing to Gaza is located, and within 20km of the border with Libya.

Read more: Are we heading for World War Three? Experts give their verdicts What are Iran's military capabilities - and where could it strike?

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

Check advice on other Middle East states before you travel

Following Iran's attack on Israel, the Foreign Office issued a warning relating to several countries in the surrounding area, telling travellers to check for the latest information.

Included in this are popular destinations like Dubai (visited by more than a million Britons last year according to Travel Weekly) and Marrakech.

"On 13 April 2024 Iran carried out military action against Israel. Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast," the FCDO said in a statement.

The countries covered by the warning include Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Bahrain, Kuwait, Libya, Jordan and Oman.

Anywhere else of concern?

Cyprus is near the region and has a large UK airbase but, as yet, there is no change in travel advice to the popular country.

Related Topics

• Israel-Hamas war
• Middle East