Is London Safe to Travel to? A Traveler's Guide [2025]

London. The city of Big Ben, double-decker buses, and iconic landmarks. It’s a destination that many travelers dream of visiting. But with any big city, there’s always a question that pops up in the back of your mind: Is it safe?

Whether you’re wandering through bustling markets, exploring historic neighborhoods, or enjoying the nightlife, staying safe while traveling is essential. Here's everything you need to know about safety in London, with tips to make your trip smooth and stress-free.

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 London Safe to Travel to?

The short answer? Yes, London is a relatively safe city for tourists. Like any major city, it has its share of crime, but for the most part, you’ll feel secure walking around popular areas.

London is a huge city, home to over 8 million people and made up of 32 boroughs. Some neighborhoods feel calm and charming, while others can be chaotic and crowded. Knowing what to expect from different areas—and staying aware of your surroundings—will go a long way toward keeping you safe.

Pro tip: The biggest safety concerns in London tend to be pickpocketing and scams in tourist-heavy areas. Violent crime is relatively rare and unlikely to impact travelers.

Where should I avoid in London?

While much of London is considered safe, some areas are more prone to opportunistic crime, like pickpocketing. It’s not about avoiding these spots entirely, but rather staying aware of your surroundings.

Here are some tourist-heavy areas where you should be extra cautious:

• Leicester Square
• Piccadilly Circus
• Oxford Street

These spots are buzzing with people, making them prime targets for pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure, and avoid putting your phone or wallet in your back pocket.

Other areas to be mindful of:

• Camden and Shoreditch (especially at night)
• Elephant & Castle, Lewisham, and Peckham (higher crime rates, less touristy)

If you’re planning to explore outside central London, it’s a good idea to research the area beforehand.

Is London safe at night?

Much of London feels safe at night, especially in well-lit areas like the West End or South Bank. These parts of the city are alive with restaurants, theaters, and bars, making them vibrant places to explore even after dark.

However, some neighborhoods become sketchier at night. Camden and Shoreditch are popular nightlife hubs, but they also have dark alleys and poor lighting, which can feel less safe after hours. If you’re heading to these areas, stick to well-lit streets and avoid wandering off alone.

Pro tip: London has a night transport system, including night buses and Night Tube services on Fridays and Saturdays. These options make it easier (and safer) to get home after a night out.

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

When it comes to choosing where to stay, central London is your best bet for safety and convenience. Here are a few safe neighborhoods to consider:

• Russell Square
• King's Cross
• South Kensington
• Notting Hill
• Westminster

These areas are well-lit, well-connected, and popular with tourists, making them good options for travelers. If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations, Wombat's City Hostel near Tower Bridge is a solid choice. It’s on a safe street and close to major attractions.

Is Russell Square Safe?

A lot of questions were directed at Russell Square in specific, so I want to take the time to address this question in specific.

If you're looking for a central, convenient, and safe area to stay in London, Russell Square is a solid choice. Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, it's a popular spot for both tourists and locals due to its proximity to major attractions like the British Museum, King's Cross Station, and Covent Garden.

So, is Russell Square safe? Yes, it’s considered one of the safer neighborhoods in central London. The area is well-lit, well-connected, and has a low crime rate, especially compared to busier areas like Leicester Square or Camden.

Russell Square is particularly appealing to solo travelers and families because of its laid-back vibe and residential feel, while still being close to tourist hotspots. You’ll find hotels, cafes, and parks, making it a pleasant area to explore or return to after a day of sightseeing.

That said, as with any busy urban area, it’s still essential to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping your belongings secure and being mindful at Russell Square Tube Station, especially during peak travel hours when it can get crowded.

Is London dangerous for tourists?

The biggest risk for tourists in London is opportunistic crime, like pickpocketing or scams. But violent crime is uncommon in tourist areas.

Here are some common scams to watch out for:

1. Fake charity collectors asking for donations.
2. Street performers or "magicians" trying to distract you while someone else steals your belongings.
3. Unlicensed taxi drivers charging outrageous fares.

In general, terrorism and knife crime get a lot of attention in the media, but they’re not something the average tourist needs to worry about. You may notice extra security measures, like barriers on bridges or fewer public trash bins, but these won’t impact your trip.

Police presence is usually high in popular tourist destinations in efforts to deter these scams, but unfortunately these scams/cons still quite frequent.

Tips for staying safe in London

Here are some practical tips I personally practiced to help you stay safe while exploring London:

1. Keep your belongings secure.
   • Use a crossbody bag and keep it zipped up.
   • Never leave your bag unattended.
   • Place your bag between your legs at restaurants.
2. Avoid putting your phone or wallet in your back pocket.
3. Plan your routes in advance.
   • Avoid pulling out a paper map on the street.
   • Use your phone discreetly to navigate.
4. Blend in.
   • Dress casually and avoid looking like an obvious tourist.
5. Be aware of events.
   • Large events like Notting Hill Carnival or Royal celebrations can be fun but also attract crowds (and pickpockets).

Is London safe for solo travelers?

Absolutely! London is a great city for solo travelers, but you’ll want to take a few extra precautions:

• Stick to well-lit areas.
• Stay on the lower level of buses at night to be closer to the driver and exit.
• Be mindful at train stations. These can get crowded, especially during peak hours.

If you’re looking to meet new people while traveling solo, apps like Meetup or Eventbrite can connect you with locals and other travelers.

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

What About Public Transport?

London’s public transport system is one of the safest ways to get around, even at night. Here’s what you need to know:

• Night buses run seven days a week.
• The Night Tube and Night Overground services operate on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Licensed black cabs are a reliable option if you prefer taking a taxi.

Pro tip: Avoid unlicensed taxis or ride-hailing services that don’t have proper identification.

Is the Drinking Culture in London a Safety Concern?

London’s pub culture is a huge part of its identity, but it’s important to be aware that alcohol-related rowdiness can occur, especially on weekends.

If you’re heading out for a night on the town, stick to well-lit areas and travel with friends when possible.

Keep Calm and Enjoy London!

London is a fantastic city to explore, with endless sights, activities, and cultural experiences. By staying aware of your surroundings and following some basic safety tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip.

The key? Stay alert, blend in, and don’t let fear ruin your trip. London has so much to offer—get out there and enjoy it!

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