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Is United Kingdom Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

The United Kingdom generally offers a high level of safety for solo female travelers. There's a strong police presence, especially in urban areas and public transportation, which contributes to a sense of safety. However, as with any country, it's necessary to employ common sense precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas late at night and keeping your belongings secure. Street-related crimes such as pickpocketing or theft can occur in crowded places. The UK is a welcoming destination, but always remember to stay vigilant and informed about your surroundings.

United Kingdom is currently ranked #49 safest country for solo female travellers. Check the full ranking.

Safety rating

4.7 /5

Based on our research and crime data

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How safe is United Kingdom?

Safety at night:Safe

The United Kingdom generally boasts a high level of safety, especially in more populated areas or touristy places. The local authorities effectively maintain order and there are usually good lights and CCTV surveillance. However, as in any region, certain areas can be less safe especially at night, such as quiet backstreets or parks. It is always recommended to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly-lit or deserted areas, and use common sense. Public transport is a safe option for night travel.

Public transportation:Safe

Public transportation in the United Kingdom is generally safe, with plenty of well-lit areas, security personnel present, and emergency procedures in place. Bus and train journeys are normally smooth and trouble-free, especially during the day. Nonetheless, during late hours in less crowded areas or on less used routes, one must stay vigilant. Additionally, CCTV surveillance is common, providing an extra layer of security. However, always remember, safety largely depends on personal awareness and behaviors.

Street harassment:Low

In comparison with other countries, the United Kingdom generally exhibits lower levels of street harassment. That said, it's important to note that experiences may vary significantly from person to person, and from one area to another. Some cities may present more challenges than others. The UK has strict laws against harassment, and reporting such incidents is encouraged. Overall, the public tends to be respectful towards women, but it's always crucial to remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

Petty crimes:Low

The United Kingdom generally has lower rates of petty crime compared to many other countries. Instances of pickpocketing, purse snatching, or similar offenses do occur, particularly in more tourist-frequented areas, but it is not prevalent throughout the country. Being aware of your belongings and maintaining personal security precautions will greatly minimise the risk of falling victim to such activities.

Tap water:Very safe

United Kingdom's tap water is safe to drink. It undergoes strict safety checks and regular testing, ensuring it meets high international standards. However, the taste may vary throughout different regions due to natural elements and local water treatment processes.

Is United Kingdom safe to travel?

Coni

Chile

Solo travel experience

This was my first trip abroad ever and my first time solo traveling and as an autistic person I was pretty nervous to say the least. But I researched the sh*t outta this destination and planned my trip pretty well. I was in the UK for a total of 9 days and never felt unsafe. I made London my base where I stayed with a very nice old lady in her Airbnb in Westminster near Victoria station. I also visited York and Liverpool for the day and had a great time. The weather was great (I hate hot weather that’s why I traveled in November). Not a lot of rain really, but would recommend carrying an umbrella anyways. It would get dark at around 5pm but that didn't stop me from going to cafés and restaurants. I mostly enjoyed the museums and parks, so much to see! Plus I got to enjoy a couple of Christmas markets 😁 Public transport was great, I mostly used the tube with no problems whatsoever. Would highly recommend for solo travelers! 💕 PS: It’s expensive! PS 2: Food was great despite the memes lol, also Pret and Greggs were lifesavers!

Posted: February 10, 2024

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Is United Kingdom safe right now?

Before your visit to United Kingdom, it's essential to check travel advisories for United Kingdom, including your home country's official travel advisory. These advisories can provide up-to-date information on safety, health, and any specific considerations for travelers.

🇺🇸

United States Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The United States government advises exercising increased caution in the United Kingdom due to terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: July 26, 2023

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Canada's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in the United Kingdom due to the threat of terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: May 15, 2024

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Australia's Travel AdvisoryExercise a high degree of caution

The Australian Government advises to exercise a high degree of caution in the UK due to the threat of terrorism. Check the full travel advisory.

Last updated: May 2, 2024

Meet locals in United Kingdom

Meet local women in United Kingdom who are open to meet up for a coffee or a drink, show you around, give local advice or practice a language with.

Anna

About Me

Heyyy I’m Anna I’m 18 turning 19 in 2 weeks time !! I’m currently on a gap year before starting university in September where I’ll be moving to London. I’ve been working full time since September and this month my travelling begins🥳 First I’ll be going to France followed by Thailand in May for 3 weeks and to finish Greece in June. I’m most especially excited about Thailand and will be meeting a travel company to be with for the first 2 weeks but am looking for someone to travel with for the last week, I’ll be in Phuket.

Speaking

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Tamara

About Me

I'm a freelance UX and service designer, currently community manager for a small non-profit. I enjoy solo travel as an introvert, going at my own pace and planning my day, but sometimes miss sharing experiences and adventures with others. I tend to stay in boutique hostels with female dorms or Airbnbs. (I'm always up for sharing accommodation or rentals!) I'm a foodie (vegetarian), coffee lover, culture vulture, love urban photography and just coddiwompling around. I don't drink much (maybe socially) and am not a party person. I kind of had an existential/early mid-life crisis during the pandemic, feeling like I'm missing out on life and what if the next year brings something even worse!? So I cancelled my lease in London and went travelling. As a millennial I'm unlikely to but my first home any time soon, and 50% off my income went on rent, so in order to save up (and work part time for my mental health), I'm house and pet-sitting. My itinerary: 🇵🇹 Portugal until 15.5. 🇪🇦 Spain 18.5.-1.7. 🇧🇻 Denmark 1.7.-20.7. 🇸🇪 Sweden 20.07.-22.7. 🇬🇧 UK 29.7.-24.8. 🇭🇷 Croatia 24.8.-20.9. If you'd like to follow along with my trips, you can find me on Instagram 📷 @coddiwomplingdumpling ✏️ Also! Please contribute to my list of hostels with female-only dorms if you discover a gem https://www.google.com/maps/placelists/list/D8OAFWAR7H21iTMn_rV_iYLuA9M6qQ

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Stay with locals in United Kingdom

Stay with local women in United Kingdom who offer free accommodation as part of cultural exchange. Couch surfing is a great way to meet new people, learn more about new cultures and experience destinations like a local.

Hasna

London

Can host for:

3 days

About me

Hello Lovely People ! Quick introduction : I love travelling, music and sharing with people. Calm and serene that doesn't stop me to be fun 😊 I am more a listener than chatty and I apparently make people feel comfortable. As an host or guest I will be glad to meet new people, life is too short to be shy Wish you all the best Hasna

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Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Can host for:

5 days

About me

Hi! I’m a 21 year old creative soul that is super curious and loves nothing more than exploring new places around the world! I hope to be able to become a professional filmmaker and live a semi nomadic lifestyle when I finish university and travel as much as possible :)

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Upcoming visitors to United Kingdom

Connect with upcoming visitors to United Kingdom who are looking for travel buddies or meet ups.

Asiya

About Me

Hey there! I’m currently finishing up grad school and planning my first solo trip to Europe in June. I’m an introvert with sporadic extroverted tendencies. I like wandering aimlessly (helps that I’m geographically challenged and bad at maps), spending time in nature, trying my hand at artsy/crafty things, and going out dancing.

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Jasmin

About Me

Hey, I'm Jasmin, 18 years old and love to travel. I want to see the world and am really open to meet new people. I live in the middel from Germany, but for the holidays I plan to take a europe trip.