London is a bustling city with a rich history and diverse culture. However, like any big city, safety concerns are always on the minds of residents and visitors alike.
So, what is the safest area in London? Let’s take a closer look at some of the neighborhoods in the city that are known for their low crime rates.
Richmond
Located in southwest London, Richmond is one of the most affluent areas of the city. It boasts beautiful parks, riverside walks, and historic buildings.
But not only is it picturesque, it’s also one of the safest areas in London. In fact, according to Metropolitan Police data from 2020, Richmond upon Thames had the lowest crime rate out of all 32 boroughs in London.
Crime statistics
In 2020, there were only 39 crimes per 1,000 residents reported in Richmond upon Thames. This is significantly lower than the average crime rate for London as a whole which stands at around 101 crimes per 1,000 residents.
Kingston upon Thames
Another southwest London neighborhood that ranks highly when it comes to safety is Kingston upon Thames. It’s a vibrant area with plenty of shops and restaurants as well as beautiful green spaces such as Richmond Park and Bushy Park.
In terms of crime rates, Kingston upon Thames is not far behind Richmond. In fact, it had the second-lowest crime rate out of all boroughs in London in 2020 with just 45 crimes per 1,000 people.
Sutton
Located to the south of London’s center, Sutton is a suburban area that has seen significant growth over recent years. It’s become increasingly popular due to its good transport links into central London as well as its low crime rate.
In 2020, there were just 49 crimes per 1,000 residents reported in Sutton. This is significantly lower than the London average and puts it among the safest areas of the city.
Bexley
Located to the east of London, Bexley is a suburban area that is known for its low crime rates and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a popular place to live for those who want to be close to London but also want a quieter, more peaceful lifestyle.
Bexley had a crime rate of just 57 crimes per 1,000 people in 2020. This is low compared to many other areas of London and makes it one of the safest boroughs in the city.
Conclusion
While there are many neighborhoods in London that are relatively safe, these four areas stand out due to their consistently low crime rates. Richmond upon Thames takes the top spot with its incredibly low crime rate but Kingston upon Thames, Sutton, and Bexley are not far behind. If you’re looking for a safe place to live or visit in London, these areas should definitely be on your radar.