Is South Bank London Safe?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you planning to visit South Bank in London but worried about your safety while exploring this area? Well, safety is a valid concern for anyone traveling to a new place.

In this article, we will try to answer the question – Is South Bank London safe?

Overview of South Bank London

South Bank is located on the southern bank of the River Thames. It stretches from Westminster Bridge to Blackfriars Bridge and is home to various attractions such as the London Eye, Tate Modern, Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, and many more. The area is known for its vibrant culture, diverse food scene, and entertainment options.

Crime Statistics in South Bank London

Like any other urban area, South Bank does have its share of crimes. However, it’s not considered a high crime area compared to other parts of London.

According to Metropolitan Police data from December 2020-February 2021, there were 298 reported crimes in the Lambeth borough which includes South Bank. Out of these, 19 were categorized as violent crimes and 58 as thefts from a person.

Violent Crimes

  • Assault with injury – 6
  • Assault without injury – 4
  • Common assault – 2
  • Harassment – 5
  • Robbery – 1
  • Threats to kill – 1

Thefts from a Person

  • Pickpocketing – 21
  • Theft by finding – 9
  • Theft from motor vehicle – 9
  • Theft from person – 8
  • Other theft – 11

It’s essential to keep in mind that these figures are only reported crimes, and many incidents go unreported. However, the overall numbers suggest that South Bank is a relatively safe area.

Safety Tips for Visitors

While South Bank is generally considered safe, it’s still important to take precautions while exploring the area. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Be aware of your surroundings: Stay vigilant while walking around and keep an eye on your belongings.

2. Avoid deserted areas: Try to stick to well-lit and busy areas and avoid isolated spots.

3. Use licensed taxis: If you need to take a taxi, make sure it’s a licensed one with a visible license plate.

4. Keep valuables hidden: Keep your money, passports, and other valuables hidden away from prying eyes.

Conclusion

To sum up, South Bank London is relatively safe compared to other parts of London. While there are some reported crimes, they are not significantly high enough to deter visitors from exploring this vibrant area. As long as you stay alert and follow basic safety precautions, you can enjoy all that South Bank has to offer without any worries.