Bath is a beautiful city located in the county of Somerset, South West England. It has a population of around 90,000 people and is renowned for its stunning Georgian architecture, Roman baths, and historic landmarks. Bath attracts a large number of tourists every year, which can lead to concerns about safety. However, Bath is generally considered to be a safe city with low crime rates.
Crime Rates:
According to the latest crime statistics available from the UK government, Bath has a relatively low crime rate compared to other cities in the UK. In the year ending December 2020, there were 5,764 crimes reported in Bath and North East Somerset, the council area that includes Bath. This is equivalent to a rate of 64 crimes per 1,000 residents, which is below the national average.
Historic Crime Records:
Bath has a long and fascinating history, and crime has been a part of that history. One of the most infamous crimes in Bath's history is the murder of William Beckford, a wealthy landowner, and art collector, in 1779. The killer was never caught, and the crime remains a mystery to this day.
Dangerous Areas to Avoid:
While Bath is generally a safe city, there are some areas that visitors and residents should avoid. The Walcot Street area, in particular, can be a bit rough at night, and there have been reports of theft and anti-social behavior. The Riverside area can also be dangerous, especially late at night. Visitors should take care when walking alone and should avoid carrying valuables or large amounts of cash.
Safe Times of Day:
Bath is generally safe during the day, with most of the city's attractions open during daylight hours. Visitors should take care when walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. The city center is well-lit and busy, which can deter criminals. Visitors should stick to well-lit streets and avoid shortcuts through dark alleys or parks.
Other Safety Advice:
Visitors and residents should take care when using ATMs, particularly those located in quiet areas or down side streets. Criminals sometimes target people withdrawing cash, so it's important to be aware of your surroundings and to avoid using ATMs that look suspicious or poorly maintained.
It's also important to keep your belongings secure when walking around the city. Pickpocketing can occur in busy areas, particularly around the Christmas Market, which is a popular attraction. Visitors should keep their bags and wallets close to them and avoid leaving them unattended.
Bath has a large student population, and there have been reports of anti-social behavior and noise disturbances in student areas. Visitors should be prepared for noise late at night, especially during the academic year.
Overall, Bath is a relatively safe city with low crime rates. Visitors and residents should take the usual precautions to ensure their safety, such as sticking to well-lit areas, avoiding shortcuts through dark alleys or parks, and keeping their belongings secure. By following these simple rules, visitors can enjoy all that Bath has to offer without any safety concerns.