Discover the 9 Safest Areas to Stay in London for Tourists
If you’re planning a trip to London and want to stay in the safest areas, you might wonder which neighbourhoods are the best choices.
I’ve lived in London for two years, so I know a thing or two about where to stay to avoid any trouble.
London is generally a safe city, but, like any big city, some areas are known for being extra secure, quiet, and having a lower crime rate. Here are some of the safest places to stay in London:
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1. Kensington and Chelsea
Kensington and Chelsea are some of the fanciest neighbourhoods in London, located in West London.
The streets are lined with luxury houses, high-end shops, and cool places like the Natural History Museum and Victoria & Albert Museum. I used to walk around here and always felt safe, even at night.
The streets are well-lit, and there’s often police and CCTV around, which makes it one of the safest areas in London for tourists. Choosing accommodation in this area will give you peace of mind, especially if safety is your top priority.
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2. Notting Hill
Notting Hill is famous for its colourful houses and Portobello Road Market, and it’s also one of the safer parts of London.
It’s a nice, affluent neighbourhood with a relaxed vibe, great for families or solo travellers. Plus, walking past those pastel-coloured houses makes you feel like you’re in a movie (probably because you are—thanks, Hugh Grant!).
The low crime rate here gives you peace of mind while exploring. If you’re looking for a place to live in London that combines charm with safety, Notting Hill is a great option.
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3. Richmond
If you like a more suburban feel, Richmond is a great choice. It’s along the banks of the River Thames and has plenty of green spaces like Richmond Park.
Honestly, Richmond feels like a cosy English countryside town, but you’re still in London. The crime rate is low, and the community feel makes it perfect for those who want safety and security.
With its beautiful green spaces and calm atmosphere, it’s one of the safest places in London to stay or even call home.
Richmond is definitely an area that provides peace of mind for anyone staying there.
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4. Hampstead
Hampstead is in North London and feels like a calm escape from the busy city centre. It has cobblestone streets, cute shops, and Hampstead Heath, which is a huge green space.
It’s great for families or anyone wanting some peace and quiet. Who wouldn’t love a Sunday walk around Hampstead Heath?
It’s a wealthy area with a low crime rate, and you can really feel safe while exploring the beautiful tree-lined streets.
Hampstead is also known for its Victorian and Edwardian architecture, making it a picturesque place to stay in London.
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5. Greenwich
Greenwich is in southeast London and has a lot of history, like the Royal Observatory and Greenwich Park.
The neighbourhood is laid-back and has amazing views of the city from the park. It’s a safe area with a strong sense of community, making it a wonderful destination to explore without worrying about safety.
Greenwich also has excellent transport links, making it easy to get across the city while staying in one of London’s safest areas.
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6. Westminster
Westminster is where the UK government is, and it’s also a safe, central area for tourists. You can easily walk to famous places like Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey.
And let me tell you, nothing makes you feel safer than being surrounded by politicians and tourists. With all the government buildings and high-profile homes, there’s a high level of security here.
It is one of the safest areas of London, and you can feel the extra safety measures in place. Westminster is definitely one of the best neighbourhoods if you want to be close to popular tourist destinations while staying safe.
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7. Marylebone
Marylebone is another central London neighbourhood that is incredibly safe and fancy. It’s home to attractions like Madame Tussauds and the Sherlock Holmes Museum.
The area is beautiful, with old Georgian buildings, and it feels like a mix of a quiet residential area and easy access to London’s main sights.
It’s the kind of place where you can walk around late at night and still feel safe. Plus, it’s a great place if you want to feel like you’re in a classic British novel.
Marylebone also has excellent transport links, making it convenient for getting around.
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8. Belgravia
Belgravia is one of the most exclusive areas in London, with big fancy houses and embassies. It’s very safe because of all the security around the diplomatic buildings.
If your budget allows, it’s an elegant area to stay in—you might even end up neighbours with an ambassador.
The level of security here is high, making it one of the safest places in London to stay.
Belgravia also has beautiful Victorian architecture, and its quiet streets are perfect for those who want peace and luxury.
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9. Southbank
If you want to be in the middle of all the action but still feel safe, Southbank is a great choice.
There are lots of attractions, like the London Eye, Tate Modern, and the Southbank Centre. It’s busy, but in a fun way—you’ll never feel alone, and there’s always something going on.
Southbank has a lot of CCTV, which adds to the safety and security of the area, making it a great destination to stay in London.
The convenience of a hotel in Southbank means you can combine the excitement of the central areas of London with the safety of staying in a well-monitored neighbourhood.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the safest areas to stay in London for tourists?
Well, if you want to feel like royalty while avoiding any mischief, you might want to check out places like Knightsbridge or Harrow. They’re the crème de la crème of London safe areas, where you can sip tea without fear of a rogue pigeon stealing your scone!
Is London a safe city for tourists?
Absolutely! London is like that big, friendly giant—mostly safe but with a few quirky characters. Just keep your wits about you, stay away from those higher crime rates in certain boroughs, and you’ll be fine. Think of it as a game of hide and seek, but you’re the one hiding the whole time!
What type of accommodation should I choose to stay safe?
If you’re looking for the safest type of accommodation, consider a lovely apartment in one of the better neighbourhoods. Think of them as cozy little fortresses where you can hide from any pesky dangers. Just remember, the higher the security level, the more at ease you’ll be while you enjoy all that London has to offer!
Are there specific boroughs in London that are safer than others?
Definitely! Some boroughs in London are like a warm hug, while others are a bit more like that awkward uncle at family gatherings. Areas like Tower Hamlets and Hackney have their charms, but you might want to steer clear of the hustle and bustle of Oxford Street if you’re feeling a little less adventurous!
How can I ensure my safety while staying in London?
Staying safe in London is all about using common sense. You wouldn’t walk down a dark alley wearing a neon sign saying, “Rob me!” would you? Stick to well-lit areas, avoid those higher crime spots, and remember: it’s all fun and games until someone loses their way to the nearest pub!
What are the best neighbourhoods for tourists to stay in London?
The best neighbourhoods are like a box of chocolates—some are sweet, some are nutty, and some might pack a punch! Look into places like Chelsea and Hampstead for a safe and charming experience. They’re the kind of areas to live in London where you can stroll around and feel like you’re in a Jane Austen novel!
Should I consider staying in East London?
East London can be a mixed bag! Some areas like Hackney are trendy and vibrant, while others might make you feel like you’re on an episode of ‘Survivor.’ Just make sure to do your research and find the safe areas in London to enjoy all the local delights without any drama!
What if I want to stay for a month rather than just a few days?
If you’re planning to stay for a month, consider finding a flat in a safe area like Harrow. It’ll give you that homey feel and a chance to blend in with the locals. Plus, you’ll have a kitchen to whip up your own questionable culinary experiments instead of relying on takeout!
Do I need to worry about safety if I’m out late at night in London?
While London is an incredibly safe city, late-night escapades can be a bit dicey. If you find yourself out and about after dark, just stick to well-lit areas, avoid those higher crime spots, and remember: if things get too wild, it’s always a good idea to call it a night. Your bed will be waiting, and trust me, it misses you!
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