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Not a trip report per se... but a resource for folks who think London is dangerous

Hi!

I'm a relative newbie here, but I have noted that in the England section of the forum, there are often questions about London and personal safety. I live in London and think it is VERY safe. And so I was pleased to have that backed up by this fun YouTube video from a creator I trust to be rational and fact based.

His brand of snark might not be for everyone here, but he makes some excellent points. If you are headed to London and worried about phone snatchers and crime on the tube and whatnot, I urge you to give this a watch. :-)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uDkyP37JgY0

Posted by
10036 posts

Readily admit didn’t watch the video and only posting to say I’ve visited London for over 50 years. Not once have I ever felt unsafe.

Recall only one incident of theft but it happened to a friend I was traveling with. Her wallet was stolen out of her purse in a small cafe where we were having coffee.

In 2023 I chose to stay at the Richmond Premiere Inn. Been of a jaunt via the tube or by bus to the theatre district. Long story short, attended a play, tubed back to Richmond Station and then walked back to the PI. About a 1/2 mile.

Streets were well lit, there was still minimal traffic. Did I worry about my safety. I did not. Never wear earbuds when walking so was very aware of sounds, had my regular glasses on so my sight was fine, shoes were comfy …. Born when Truman was in office.

My point is always stay aware of your surroundings, don’t look at your phone while walking or standing in a crowd or leave it on a table if dinning.

Know where you are going. Be focused.

Great city. Appreciate it.

Posted by
808 posts

As a two-time visitor to London, I have found the British capital to be very safe. If safety is a concern, Americans should leave for London tomorrow. Gun ownership in the British capital is strictly regulated and treated as a privilege.

As a side note, one of the best accounts I have read from a frequent visitor to London came from the late film critic and author Roger Ebert in his memoir "Life Itself", which was published in 2011. It's a great read for avid travelers because of Ebert's boundless love for London. He also wrote an difficult-to-find book called "The Perfect London Walk" with more about it here: https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/books-movies/the-perfect-london-walk