As a London tour guide, I have a lot of guests who will ask for my advice or opinions about the city.
One of the questions I am asked quite frequently is, and one of the questions I see pop up often on our London Travel Tips Facebook page, is "How safe is London?"
So I've pit together a post that 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?
I always give the same answer to this question: London is a very safe city.
And I am a woman who often travels alone - and at night - so keep that in mind as you read my post.
Although I always say London is one of the safest large cities to visit, just like any capital, crime does exist.
So, I am always cautious and take care when I am travelling through 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!
This isn't full proof, of course. I have had my mobile phone stolen before despite my best efforts.
But, many of my friends have never been a victim of petty theft in 10+ years of living here.
Of course I do see headlines and news reports of violent crime that takes place in London.
But, in my opinion, this is rare compared to other large cities I've been to.
I also tell me guests that when violent crime does occur, it usually takes place in neighbourhoods that tourists wouldn't visit - or places that I, myself, try to avoid.
During the day, the most common crime in London is pickpocketing - like most other European capitals.
As I said, I have had my phone nicked from my pocket while on a bus.
And one of my friends had her wallet stolen at a pub - but, to be fair, she had left her handbag open and on a table in a busy place.
And at night, I still feel pretty safe in the city.
Most areas in the centre of town are well-lit and public transport runs 24 hours a day to get me home safely, be it via train, tube or bus.
I also notice a lot of visitors have a mental image of "London bobbies" on the beat.
And, I see police officers all over town when I'm leaving my groups through the city.
You will find both City of London and Met police throughout town and, in my experience, the vast majority are friendly, helpful, and approachable in general.
And remember, I am speaking from the experience of a woman.
Women traveling alone are much safer in London than in many other world capitals.
Safety Tips in London
Travel:
- I never accept rides on bicycle pedicabs. I can't tell you the amount of visitors I've had who have been ripped off by one of these! My dad once said over £60.00 for a 5 minute journey so just steer well clear.
- I always keep to well-lit main roads when walking at night. I find this pretty easy to do in London as most neighbourhoods are well lit throughout the night.
- If I am travelling alone on a bus at night – I sit downstairs. I sit upstairs the majority of the time but if I'm traveling to an area I'm not familiar with after dark, I like to stay downstairs so I am within view of the bus driver as I feel this adds an extra layer of security.
- It seems obvious but take care when crossing the street – we drive on the left here!
- I don't ever wear full headphones when travelling alone as this will prevent you from being aware of your surroundings. I find this one hard, as I enjoy listening to podcasts so I usually just have one earpiece in, rather than two. This way I can hear everything happening around me and also whatever I am listening to. An additional tip from me here is that the time my phone was stolen, I had corded headphones plugged in and the thief was able to tell where my phone was as my headphones were attached! So cordless is my preference now.
- I like to plan my trips ahead of time, if possible. Know where you are going and which stop you will need. Even though I have lived here for twenty years I will still check www.tfl.gov.uk to plan my journeys through town. This means there's no chance of getting lost or wandering off track.
- I only ever use registered minicabs or black cabs – I would never get into an unmarked or unregistered vehicle and never accept a journey from a driver off the street. I cannot stress this one enough! Especially for women. I do use Uber and Bolt but I always feel safest in a black cab and the price difference is usually never big enough to put me off.
- Solo travellers should definitely consider exploring the city with a tour group! Of course, I would say this, considering I am a tour guide! But it's true, this is a great way to meet people and get you bearings in an unfamiliar city. 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:
I don't tuck my phone into your back pocket! I think this is a mistake most people only make once!
I always keep things like money, wallets, phones, etc. out of sight.
I never keep my phone or wallet in an outer pocket full stop and I'd suggest you do the same.
I keep your wallet close to your body, and valuables on your person when possible.
I like to utilise the interior pockets of my clothes when possible.
I never leave your bags unattended anywhere in London – this can lead to security alerts and makes you an easy target.
Remember what I said about my friend leaving her bag out!
I also always make sure if I have hung up my coat somewhere that there is nothing valuable in ANY of the pockets.
I no longer stand on the edge of the pavement and use my phone.
I was standing outside Angel Underground Station once, using my phone when somebody snatched it right out of my hand.
Luckily for me, it was a police officer who was going around specifically snatching people's phones, so we could see how easy it is for a person on a moped or bike to speed by and grab our phones from our hands.
Now, if I need to use my phone on the pavement, I keep my back to the road. It was a cheap lesson!
When I am carrying my bag, I always tuck it under my arm, or (if I have a longer strap), cross it over my chest and one shoulder.
I also always make sure any buckles or zips on my bag are secured at all times.
If a stranger on the street asks me for directions or the time, I am always extra aware of my belongings while I answer (particularly my phone and wallet).
This is an old scam that happens in lots of cities and I've been lucky to not experience it in London but I am always extra vigilant.
I always keep a separate bit of cash somewhere else on me so, even if I are a victim of crime, I will always have enough money to get back to home.
I know we operate in a nearly cashless society now but I really do urge you to bring actual money when you come here, even if it's just a little bit for an emergency situation.
In Bars, Pubs, and Restaurants:
I never leave your drink unattended. I think most woman, in particular, follow this rule but I wanted to write it down.
I never accept drinks from strangers I have not witnessed being made/poured.
I always keep property underneath the table or out of sight.
These days, I've noticed that many locations have bag clips underneath bars/tables so I will hang my bag there, right by my knees, if I 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 I very rarely find myself 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 I actively avoid 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, so it's not as though I could randomly find myself there.
Of course, I always keep my wits about me and an eye on my bag and/or phone but, in general, central London is perfectly safe at night.
Which Areas of London are Safe?
As I mentioned, most violent crime in London takes place in areas you will likely not visit.
In my opinion, the safest areas in town tend to be the ones most visited by tourists.
I think this is the case because they are constantly busy, are all well lit and maintained, and there's usually a noticeable police presence.
Safe Areas:
- Canary Wharf - Out to the East this is London's newest financial district and is full of skyscrapers and riverside apartments. I don't get too many guests staying here as it is mostly financial but all the business here makes it well monitored, well lit and safe.
- 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. I recommend checking it out with me on my City of London Tour! This is the one area of central London that isn't always busy at night, as it's mostly offices, but I still feel safe here.
- Islington - This is where I live! Islington is a charming neighbourhood in the north of the city. It's great place to stay, drink and dine and has very little petty crime.
- Kensington and Chelsea - I find a large portion of my visitors stay in this area. It's full of beautiful homes, boutique shops, and lovely parks and gardens. It's very bougie and very safe. Consider exploring Kensington with us on our Royal Kensington Tour.
- King's Cross - When I first moved to London 20 years ago, this was a pretty rough area but that has all changed in the last few years. Newly refurbished, King's Cross is home to great restaurants, accommodation, and has the best-connected Underground Station in the city.
- Knightsbridge - This is another wealthy borough and one that is popular with visitors. Knightsbridge is on the edge of Hyde Park and it's where you will find the iconic Harrod's department store.
- Mayfair - The most expensive space on the London Monopoly board, 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 - In the last few years I have noticed more and more of my visitors choosing hotels along 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, join our seasonal Night Tour that takes in all the lights of the buildings along the river.
- Westminster - Another hot spot for visitors on my tours. 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 neighbourhood, consider joining me on my 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 but part of what makes Camden fun is it's rough-around-the-edges feel so I'm always extra aware if I'm here late at night.
- 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. I find that the neighbourhoods here are quite dense with roads off the mains streets so it's worth being mindful when I am visiting.
- Covent Garden - In London's West End, Covent Garden is home to a covered market, stunning shops, and numerous theatres. The only reason I have put this in this section, and not the one above, is because the covered piazza brings in so many tourists and the crowds make it super easy for pick-pockets!
- Elephant and Castle - This is another area that was quite different a few decades ago. Now undergoing a huge regeneration scheme (for better or for worse, depending on who you ask!) 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. I lived here for years and this is where I was when I had my phone stolen so beware on the buses here - particularly along Green Lanes.
- Hackney - Home of the "hipsters," Hackney is slowly gentrifying but still holds onto its' independent shops, bars, and restaurants. To be honest, the more gentrification that takes place here, the more likely it is I will start to put it in the category above. Again, for better or for worse.
- 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. Truthfully, people who live in London never come here! I walk through sometimes on my way to somewhere else but its' popularity with tourists means it's another hot spot for pick-pockets.
- 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. Again, I think the main streets here are perfectly safe but it's the smaller ones I'm usually mindful of.
- Waterloo - Waterloo is a transport hub on the edge of the Southbank and is largely residential. I find the area around the rail station can be a bit dodgy at night.
- 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. This is one of those areas where I would feel completely safe during the day time but a little weary at night, only because it is possible to find myself alone on some of the side streets.
- 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. Wimbledon is the kind of place where some spots are super busy and others are strictly residential and quiet and it is there I would be extra mindful.
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&B!
Of course I am not saying that all of these ares are super rough and you will absolutely be a victim of crime if you are there.
What I am saying is that I wouldn't be as comfortable here as many other areas in our city and a couple are places I would avoid in general.
- Tower Hamlets
- Hounslow
- Lewisham
- Lambeth (parts)
- Peckham
- Tottenham (if not attending a sporting event)
- Wood Green
Is Brixton Safe?
For whatever reason, the specific area I get asked about the most is Brixton.
I theorise that some people still associate it with the riots that took place here in the 80's, and others have heard about it's excellent markets and interesting street art.
Brixton is home to a thriving Afro-Caribbean community, with 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.
I want to note that I often see reports that Brixton has higher levels of crime than some areas in the city, and while the sis 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.
I strongly believe that 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 is my favourite Underground line as it's the fastest way to get through the city). So it's safe to come into and out of the area.
Plenty of people live in, work in, and visit Brixton regularly without ever encountering any issues.
One of my closest friends doesn't live too far from there so I have walked and bussed through the area for years and have never had a negative encounter.
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?
This is a tough one because I know some travellers - particularly solo women travellers - feel extra protected when they have a small knife or pepper spray on them.
But I have to point out that 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!
A member of my family has a criminal conviction and had to pay a huge fine because she forgot to take her pepper spray out of her bag when she was in London.
The police can and will prosecute.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Safety in London
Is London safe for tourists?
Yes—London is generally safe for visitors. Most issues are petty theft in busy spots like the West End, Camden, and around major stations. Violent crime against tourists is uncommon.
Local Guide Tip: Keep phones and wallets zipped away on the Tube and when watching street performances—distraction is the #1 tactic.
Is London safe at night?
Central areas (West End, South Bank, Shoreditch) are well lit and lively late. Stick to main roads after midnight, travel in pairs when you can, and use licensed transport.
Local Guide Tip: If you’re far from a Night Tube line, book a licensed minicab (via an app) or black cab—never accept unmarked rides.
Is London safe for solo female travelers?
Thousands of solo women explore London weekly without incident. Stay in central neighborhoods, avoid unlit parks after dark, and share your journey in your ride-hail app.
Local Guide Tip: In pubs, keep your drink with you and use the bartender if someone won’t take the hint—London staff are great at stepping in.
Is London dangerous?
Compared with many major world cities, London’s visitor risk is low. The most likely issue is pickpocketing in crowds or on packed trains.
Local Guide Tip: Cross-body bags worn to the front beat backpacks every time on the Central, Piccadilly, and Northern lines at rush hour.
Which London areas feel safest for visitors?
Most central districts are fine: Westminster/West End, South Bank, Kensington, Covent Garden, Bloomsbury. Use normal city smarts in nightlife zones like Soho and Shoreditch late.
Local Guide Tip: If a side street feels empty after hours, hop to a parallel main road—London’s grid usually gives you a busier option one block away.
How safe is the Tube and public transport?
The Tube, buses, and trains are widely used and well monitored. Night Tube and Night Buses run on key routes at weekends.
Local Guide Tip: Stand behind the platform line, let others off first, and keep bags in front of you on escalators and in crowds.
Common scams or tricks to watch for?
Classic distractions: clipboard “petitions,” friendship bracelets, dropped-cash confusion, and “helpful” strangers at ticket machines.
Local Guide Tip: If someone creates urgency around you, pause and step away. Buy tickets at official machines or staffed windows only.
What should I do in an emergency?
Dial 999 for emergencies (police/ambulance/fire) and 101 for non-emergency police. For medical advice, call 111. Keep your travel insurance details handy.
Local Guide Tip: Save your accommodation address and nearest Tube stop in your phone for quick reference.
