The 10 Most Dangerous Areas in London
London is an intoxicating blend of old-world charm and modern energy, with every street holding a story. It’s a city that’s seen it all, from royal weddings to raucous football matches.
But like any global metropolis, London has some areas that tourists—especially first-timers—might want to be a bit cautious of.
In this guide, we’ll help you navigate the areas to avoid in London, share some essential safety tips, and make sure your visit is as smooth as a perfect cup of English breakfast tea.
While London is generally safe, there are some neighborhoods where the crime rate is higher, particularly after dark.
So, let’s jump in and look at the 10 areas to avoid in London for a hassle-free adventure.
1. Hackney
If you’ve heard the term “up-and-coming” in relation to London neighborhoods, Hackney is probably the poster child.
Gentrification is sweeping through London, and places like Shoreditch and Elephant and Castle are now home to trendy bars and clubs.
But don’t get too comfortable—Hackney still has some rough spots where violent crime and petty theft are common, particularly near Hackney Central and Hackney Wick.
Hackney is one of the areas in London where both locals and visitors should stay cautious.
The borough has a high rate of burglary and vehicle crime, and crimes like pickpocketing tend to happen in crowded places.
While you might be eager to snap a picture of the famous street art, I recommend using a phone lanyard to keep your device secure and avoid it getting snatched out of your hands.
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2. Tower Hamlets
When you hear Tower Hamlets, you might think of historic Whitechapel, home of Jack the Ripper tours and a wealth of Victorian history.
But this London borough has another reputation—its crime rates are higher than many other parts of London, particularly when it comes to theft and vehicle crime.
Areas like Bethnal Green and Shadwell can be less safe, especially at night.
Tower Hamlets has improved thanks to revitalization projects, but the borough remains one of the areas of London to avoid if you’re not familiar with it.
Be cautious in crowded areas and around public transport hubs. If you plan to visit, a theft-proof backpack could be your best friend, as it’s easy for opportunists to slip in and out of bags when you’re not looking.
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3. Tottenham
Tottenham, located in North London, is best known for its Premier League football team, Tottenham Hotspur.
But once you stray from the football ground, you’ll find yourself in an area with higher levels of violent crime and street theft, particularly around Tottenham High Road and the nearby train stations.
For football fans, Tottenham is an exciting part of the London experience, but it’s one of those areas when visiting where you’ll want to be extra careful after dark.
A crossbody anti-theft bag can help keep your belongings secure while you’re cheering on the Spurs or exploring the area’s busy streets.
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4. Camden
Ah, Camden—famous for its quirky markets, live music venues, and alternative fashion scene. Honestly, I just love it here!
It’s one of the top tourist attractions in London and home to bustling crowds of both locals and tourists.
However, Camden also has a reputation for being one of the areas to avoid after hours.
The crime rate spikes here at night, and incidents like pickpocketing and even muggings aren’t uncommon.
If you’re planning a trip to Camden Market, it’s worth keeping an eye on your wallet. The crowded environment makes it a prime target for pickpockets.
Investing in a hidden money belt or a travel wallet can help you stay safe while exploring Camden’s maze of stalls and shops.
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5. Brixton
Once a gritty part of South London, Brixton is now a lively cultural hub. I love visiting Brixton for the absolutely AMAZING food!
It’s known for its vibrant food scene, music venues, and nightlife. But despite its charm, Brixton still has pockets of higher crime rates, particularly around Brixton High Street and some of the nearby estates.
For first-time visitors, it’s best to stick to the main roads and popular tourist attractions in Brixton.
The area comes alive with bars and clubs at night, so if you’re heading out after dark, stay alert. Brixton’s energy is infectious, but a theft-proof crossbody bag is a smart investment if you’re heading to a gig or one of its many street markets.
6. Bermondsey
Down in South London, Bermondsey is a rapidly changing neighborhood with cool new bars, restaurants, and even a craft beer mile.
But like many areas undergoing revitalization, it has its challenges, particularly in the less gentrified parts where burglaries and theft are more frequent.
Millwall FC’s ground is also located here, and match days can get pretty rowdy. Millwall fans are not the most – popular – in the UK.
If you’re visiting Bermondsey for its famous beer mile, make sure you don’t wander too far into the less-traveled areas after dark.
7. Islington
Islington is another borough that has a mix of affluence and pockets of higher crime.
While the area is known for its pubs, restaurants, and proximity to Central London, some parts like Finsbury Park and Holloway have a reputation for pickpocketing and theft after dark.
This is one of the London areas where you need to be particularly cautious in crowded spots like bars and clubs. Keep an eye on your belongings at all times.
8. Stratford and Canning Town
Stratford was put on the map thanks to the 2012 Olympics, and its regeneration has been impressive. But the area still has spots, especially in Canning Town, that suffer from higher crime rates.
The modern Olympic Park and Westfield Shopping Centre are safe enough, but venture off the beaten track, and things get a bit dicier.
If you’re exploring Stratford, particularly its quieter streets, be cautious and avoid walking around alone late at night.
9. Croydon
In South London, Croydon is another area with a higher overall crime rate.
Although it’s not often on the tourist radar, it’s an area that some visitors pass through, especially if they’re connecting via public transport.
Croydon’s crime stats, including burglaries and street theft, remain some of the highest in London.
When passing through Croydon, make sure you keep your phone and wallet close.
10. Lewisham
Lewisham is an affordable option for locals, but for tourists, it’s one of the areas in London to avoid if you don’t know it well.
Deptford and Catford, in particular, have higher crime rates, although the borough has been slowly improving.
Lewisham might not be packed with major attractions, but if you’re exploring the London borough of Lewisham, stick to daylight hours.
General Tips for Staying Safe in London
- Avoid Crowded Areas After Dark: Stick to busy, well-lit streets, especially in areas with higher crime rates.
- Public Transportation: Always be aware of your surroundings when using public transport, especially at night.
- Pickpocket Prevention: In crowded areas, a theft-proof backpack or money belt can save you a lot of stress.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most dangerous areas in London to avoid.
Some of the most dangerous areas in London to steer clear of include Peckham, Haringey, Newham, and Elephant and Castle – Although Elephant and Castle has been improving rapidly.
These areas have higher crime rates compared to others (but it is still overall quite safe), so it’s wise to be cautious in London when visiting these spots and to keep your belongings close.
Is London safe for tourists?
Overall, London is relatively safe for tourists, but like any big city, there are parts of London that are better to avoid.
Stay in well-lit, populated areas and keep an eye on your belongings, especially in neighborhoods known for being dangerous.
What’s the crime rate like in London?
The overall crime rate in London fluctuates, but certain parts, like the London Borough of Southwark and the London Borough of Lambeth, tend to have higher crimes per 1000 people.
It’s a good idea to check the latest statistics and be aware of the areas to avoid in London.
Are there specific neighborhoods to avoid in London?
Yes, some neighborhoods to avoid include certain parts of Peckham, Haringey, and Newham.
These areas have earned a reputation for being dangerous, so it’s best to plan your visit accordingly.
How can I stay safe at night in London?
To stay safe at night in London, avoid walking through deserted areas, especially in known dangerous places.
Stick to well-lit streets, use reputable transport options, and always be aware of your surroundings.
Is it expensive to live in the dangerous areas of London?
The cost of living in some of the dangerous areas in London can be surprisingly high.
For example, while places like Brixton are vibrant – but not always the safest, they also have a high cost of living because they are popular with young people.
It’s important to weigh the risks and benefits if considering living there. Overall it is quite safe – but you need to have your head screwed on!
What should I do if I encounter crime while in London?
If you witness or become a victim of crime in London, contact the UK’s emergency services immediately on 101 for non-emergencies or 999 for emergencies (immediate danger to life, violence, or a crime that is happening right now).
It’s important to report any incidents, especially in dangerous areas, so that they can take action and help keep everyone safe.
Are there any safe neighborhoods in London?
Definitely! While there are dangerous areas in London, there are also plenty of safe neighborhoods.
Areas like Kensington, Chelsea, and Hampstead are known for being much safer and can be great options for living or visiting.
How do I find the best neighborhoods in London?
To find the best neighborhoods in London, consider factors like crime rates, cost of living, and local amenities.
Research online, read reviews from locals or expats, and visit different areas to get a feel for what they have to offer.
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