Surrey, celebrated for its scenic landscapes and affluent neighborhoods, is frequently recognized as one of the most desirable places to reside in the UK. Beyond the charming villages and vibrant towns, a critical element that shapes the quality of life is safety. Examining crime statistics is essential for residents seeking assurance and for prospective homeowners aiming to make well-informed decisions regarding their future homes.
This article presents an in-depth, data-driven analysis of crime rates across Surrey's diverse locales. We will present a clear picture of crime rates across Surrey's diverse areas. Local figures will be juxtaposed with both Surrey averages and national benchmarks. Through a detailed area-by-area breakdown, you'll gain valuable insights into property crime, violent crime, and other offenses, arming you with the knowledge to assess risks and make confident choices regarding where to live, raise a family, or invest in property.
Leatherhead (KT24)
Located in the Mole Valley, Leatherhead provides a mix of suburban convenience and accessibility to Surrey's attractive countryside. The area is known for its historical background and growing neighborhood, attracting families and professionals seeking a calmer lifestyle. The overall safety and security of the neighborhood is a crucial element for residents.
Crime statistics indicate that Leatherhead benefits from considerably lower crime rates compared to both Surrey's average and national figures. Property crime occurs at a rate of 10.62 incidents per 1,000 households annually, approximately 68% lower than the county average and 73% lower than the national average. Violent crime is notably low at 14.42 incidents per 1,000 households, significantly lower than the Surrey average of 54.05 and the national figure of 78.89. Public order offences and theft also follow this pattern, with rates substantially below both county and national benchmarks. The presence of homes owned by affluent families may correlate with lower crime rates in the area.
For residents, these figures mean a greater sense of security and peace of mind. The lower crime rates reduce the risk of burglary, theft, or violent encounters, improving quality of life. While no area is entirely crime-free, Leatherhead's statistics indicate it is a safe place to live, offering reassurance for families and individuals.
Windlesham (GU20)
Windlesham, a geographically large village within the Surrey Heath borough, provides a combination of historic charm and modern living. The area is characterized by its accessibility to both London and Surrey's countryside, attracting residents seeking a balance between rural tranquility and urban convenience. Safety is an important factor for those choosing to call Windlesham home.
The crime statistics for Windlesham indicate a safer environment compared to the wider region and the nation. The area experiences 16.42 property crimes per 1,000 households annually, approximately 51% safer than the Surrey average and 58% safer than the national average. Violent crime is also notably low at 18.76 incidents per 1,000 households, 65% lower than the county and 76% lower than the national averages. Public order offences and theft demonstrate a similar pattern, with rates substantially below both county and national benchmarks, with overall weighted crime 71% lower than the national average. That Windlesham once contained the most expensive house in the world may affect crime rates.
For residents, these figures suggest a reduced risk of being affected by crime, increasing feelings of security and well-being. The low crime rates mean less concern about burglary, vehicle theft, or violent incidents. Windlesham is a safe and attractive place to live for families and individuals, with nearby areas like Lightwater having facilities and events, and open spaces attracting visitors.
Ashtead (KT21)
Ashtead, a village in the Mole Valley district of Surrey, offers a blend of rural charm and accessibility to London, promoting a community-oriented atmosphere. The area's appeal includes green spaces like Ashtead Common and Ashtead Park, which contribute to its tranquil environment. Safety and security are important factors for those drawn to this village.
Looking at the data, Ashtead presents reassuring crime rates that are considerably lower than both county and national averages. Property crime in Ashtead is 9.68 incidents per 1,000 households annually, approximately 71% lower than the Surrey average and 75% lower than the national average. Violent crime is reported at 23.83 incidents per 1,000 households, significantly lower than the Surrey average of 54.05 and the national average of 78.89. Public order offences and theft demonstrate a similar pattern, with rates substantially below both county and national benchmarks; the overall weighted crime rate is 69% lower than the national average.
These figures suggest a reduced risk of being a victim of crime for Ashtead residents. The lower crime rates likely contribute to a greater sense of community safety and well-being, offering reassurance for families and individuals. While benefiting from good connections to larger towns via the A24 and railway, the village maintains a sense of separation from urban issues, helping to lower crime rates. Areas closer to transport links sometimes experience higher incidents of theft due to mobility of criminals into other regions.
Thames Ditton (KT7)
Thames Ditton, a suburban village on the banks of the River Thames in the Elmbridge borough of Surrey, provides residents with a combination of historic character and modern amenities. With its village center clustered around a winding High Street and a riverside that faces Hampton Court Palace Gardens, the area provides a unique living environment for its community. The safety and security of this area is a key consideration for current and prospective residents.
The reported crime rates in Thames Ditton are lower when compared to both Surrey and national averages. The annual property crime rate is 19.60 incidents per 1,000 households, which is approximately 41% lower than elsewhere in the county and 50% lower than the national figure. Violent offences occur at 25.06 incidents per 1,000 households, significantly below the Surrey average by around 54% and 68% below the national average. Similar trends are observed in public order offences and theft, which are lower than both county and national benchmarks, contributing to an overall weighted crime rate that is 67% lower than the national average. The local Residents’ Association, formed in 1934 and holder of all three seats for the ward on Elmbridge Borough Council, and the Surrey County Council seat for the Dittons may affect lower crime rates.
These statistics suggest that residents of Thames Ditton experience a reduced risk of crime, enhancing overall well-being. While no area is entirely free of crime, lower rates mean residents may feel more secure in their homes and when out in the community, as well as less likely to be a victim of violence. Given Thames Ditton's location and transport connections, these low crime rates are reassuring for families and individuals seeking a safe environment close to London.
Hindhead (GU26)
Hindhead, Surrey, a village known as the highest in the county and bordering Hampshire, is known for the Devil's Punch Bowl. Sitting on the border of the two counties, a main road, the A3, used to intersect Hindhead, but since 2011 a tunnel has reduced the traffic directly through the village itself. For those considering making Hindhead their home, understanding the area's safety profile is important.
Crime statistics in Hindhead paint a reassuring picture, with lower rates than both Surrey and national averages across all categories. Property crime, at 16.72 incidents per 1,000 households annually, is nearly 50% lower than the county average and 58% lower than the national figure; violent crime, at 18.35 incidents, is 66% and 77% lower, respectively. Public order offences and theft are dramatically lower than typical figures, with the overall weighted crime rate approximately 66% lower than the national average. Elements of Hindhead were declared to have air quality once as pure as that in the Swiss alps, which may be a factor.
These data points mean a tangible sense of security for Hindhead's residents, indicating reduced risks concerning home security, personal safety, and disturbances. While not immune to crime, it has seen two murders in the early 20th century, current rates suggest a lower likelihood of encountering crime, making Hindhead an appealing option for families and individuals seeking a secure environment, and it may be more peaceful now due to the traffic decreasing.