The vibrant lifestyle, boosting economy, and high-quality education offering universities call out many international students to study in London city. However, it is said that there are many areas to avoid in London, especially for students. But why? Because of robbery and high crime rates. But don’t you worry, as there are many places in London that are safest for students. Thus, to make you aware of this, we have shared the top 10 areas to avoid living in London. Therefore, read our blog to explore these areas in detail. So let’s explore them one by one.
Table of Contents
It is important to avoid some places in London that are considered unsafe for the students. A new country and here you meet hundreds of new faces every day. It is vital to know places because of safety and overall living experience. Thus, before choosing a university or student accommodation in London, you must know some areas to avoid in London because of many whys and wherefores. In this section, we have shared the reasons for the same.
These are some of the factors to consider about London zones which should be avoided. So keep these factors in mind before you decide to go to any specific area.
You might have heard that London is the safest city in the UK, but there are many areas to avoid in London. A few of the reasons are small-time crimes like burglaries, petty theft, pickpocketing, and crimes that might occur in many London neighbourhood areas. However, there are certain dangerous areas to avoid in London as you may report violent incidents or gang activity. Thus, if you remain sharp in this condition, you must know some areas to avoid. Therefore, in this section, we have shared the top 10 Areas to avoid in London. Let’s explore them one by one.
Westminster is a famous area in London for its tourist flocks, history meeting the streets of shopping, and students passing through this to their college. However, it may look like a tourist place, but it tops in dangerous areas to avoid in London. This place is always packed with people, clubs and restaurants at night, which means higher chances of robbery, phone snatchers, small-time scams, and, pickpockets. Thus, if you desire to cross this London underground area, keep your phone tucked away, and protect your valuables in the crowded streets of Westminster. So being alert can save you from any setbacks.
It is said that Camden is a beautiful place to visit, loud, colorful, and full of life. This London street are so attractive and flamboyant. It is a multi-cultural area situated at the heart of London. Streets draw attention to their foods, vintage items, and more. This is the reason why students love this. However, it is also a disgraced area to be avoided in London because of its petty crime. It’s a small place where small scams and pickpockets can be easily done. Also, many bad customs are provided to robbers in the nightlife. So, avoiding this place in crowded times would be beneficial for students.
Southwark is a mix of modern and historical life new modern buildings beside the old history denoting architecture. Moreover, Borough Market is a student magnet for its delicious food stalls. However, even with all the attractive corners, some of the areas to avoid staying in London, because of the high rates of petty crimes, mobile snatching, cycle theft and shoplifting are considered. Also, there are gang-related activity happens many times. Thus, if you decide to live near this area be aware of this and try to protect your important things such as phones, bags, and more.
Hammersmith & Fulham this area in London, has a specific charm that draws the attention of many students. If you are a football lover, then welcome to the heart of it, as this place is famous for playing football. However, this is one of the areas in London to avoid as the major concern arises that it is robbery can be happened any time of the day, car breaks and violent wrongdoing. Mostly, when there is a match in the areas, these types of happenings are considered normal, especially done by drunk people who are violent. Therefore, being alert, especially on game days.
Tower Hamlets is located in the core of the London east end. It is where culture strikes, thrilling food stalls, and famous tourist places like Whitechapel and Canary Wharf stand shoulder to shoulder by their side. Thus, students often find it difficult to resist because of its thrilling energy. However, due to the high burglary rates, this place is one of the areas to avoid staying in London. Thus, after evening, be sure to lock your doors, keep an eye on your stuff, and take safety precautions, no matter where you live in or roam outside on the street.
The Brixton is a famous place for its cultural tapestry, street markets, and variety of food stalls. Also, it's well-known for its rich musical heritage, street art and more. However, it has created a reputation in areas to avoid in central London for its high crime rates as well. The Brixton faced challenges like pickpocketing, small scams and drug-related issues. But after taking some precautions, this area has now become a safe place for students.
Elephant and Castle is situated beside the exquisite Thames River, located in the core of Southwark. This area blends traditional and historic customs with the contemporary style. It creates a lively fusion of culture. However, in the nighttime, most crime scenes are experienced by locals, tourists, and students, such as theft, robbery, small scams and drug-related setbacks. Therefore, many, if you are living in this area ensure to be alert and protect your belongings. Also, be aware of the scams involving the wrong accommodation.
Hackney is a well-known place in London as here you will find an indie café, bold street art, and vintage markets, which give a vibe of 19’s era. This area is loved by many students due to its creativity and people with sweet gestures. However, this area is also counted in the places to avoid in London. The major concern here is muggings, car thefts, and drug-related crime, especially in the nightlife. Therefore, by being a little cautious, you can protect yourself from robbery.
Greenwich is a famous area near the city of London with its riverside view, iconic Royal Observatory, and sprawling parks. This place is a blend of history with nature and is mostly loved by students and tourists. However, many people find trouble here because of the high crime setbacks. Thus, rising robbery, mugging, stealing and anti-social behaviour occur mostly, in nearby busy places. What you can do is to be alert, and keep your belongings such as phones, wallet, and other essentials protected.
The last places to avoid in London are the London Eye and Tower Bridge renowned tourist spots for both students and travelers. This place is famous for the Tower Bridge, and Elizabeth Tower for its clock and cantilevered observation wheel. But this place must be avoided in extreme crowds as there are higher chances of small scams such as theft, mobile snatching, pickpocketing more. Thus, if you go on this street or nearby protect your essentials, keep your phone tucked, and more.
In a nutshell, there are several areas to avoid in London but know that there are numerous areas which are secured and protected for students. These places are considered insecure because of the rate of crime, robbery, burglary, pickpocketing, gang activity, and more. Therefore, it is important to be aware of such things and protect yourself in City of London. Moreover, for security, you must use some safety guards. Thus, now, we believe that you are ready to choose the right Student accommodation in UK. If not, then you can get help from us by visiting GraddingHome.com. They will provide you with secure and the best housing options in the safest areas in London.
Yes, London does have many dangerous areas with high crime rates, robbery, and safety concerns, especially in some neighbourhood areas and regions. However, it is said that London is a very safe city, but some areas have spoiled the name due to high crime rates. Thus, it is vital to be aware of and take early precautions.
There are many areas in London to be cautious about, such as Westminster, Newham, Camden, and Lambeth. These areas are well known for their high crime rates and robbery. It is because of busy streets, full of people and nightlife. Therefore, unfamiliar areas and certain housing can be particularly risky.
Students who are looking for the safest areas in London are Bloomsbury, Ealing, Richmond, and Greenwich, which are often recommended for having a combination of safety, students-friendly amenities and more.
No, cheaper areas in London are safe, while some areas may have higher crime rates or a low reputation for not being safe. However, many affordable areas are safe and well-maintained.
Gradding Homes helps students find safe accommodation by verifying housing properties, following local housing rules, hygienic, and government-registered. Also, they offer many housing options such as hostels, apartments, short-term rentals and more. They all are certified, reduce the risk of scams and meet standard quality.
13 People watching now
Chat with Expert
13 People watching now
Let us shortlist and book accommodations that match your preferences—all for a small amount
Service charge
Chat with Expert
Most Affordable
Get 24x7 Facilities
Convenience & Comfort
Clean & Hygienic
We are available in :
LondonBirminghamNewcastleManchesterLiverpoolLutonPortsmouthPrestonLeicesterSheffieldBristolReadingDerbyEdinburghGlasgowNottinghamLeedsCanterburyBathSunderlandDisclaimer:logos and other registered trademarks of universities and properties used on this platform are held by their respective owners. Gradding Homes does not claim ownership or association on them, and their use is purely for informational and illustrative purposes.