Is York safe? What you should know

In a country with as rich and well-preserved a history as the UK, it takes something special to stand out. But York, situated in North Yorkshire in the north of England, has that something special that makes it one of the most fascinating historic cities anywhere in Europe.

This walled city is full of quaint medieval alleys that inspired the famous Harry Potter books and movies. Originally a Roman city, and the birthplace of a Roman Emperor, York later became one of the most important Viking settlements in Europe before entering its rich medieval period. Visiting here can give you a crash course in British and European history, and make you feel almost as if you have stepped back in time, thanks especially to York Minster Cathedral.

It's not surprising that York is one of the most visited cities in the UK, and where there are tourists, unfortunately, there are criminals looking to prey on them. If you do a quick search of destination forums, related stories on York crime will turn up tales of pickpocketing and scams. But this is the burning question: Is York safe? The truth is, York is very safe. York has a crime rate of 96 crimes per 1000 people, which makes it the 35th safest city in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Given that this is already one of the safest countries in the world, you can rest assured that your chances of being a victim of crime in York are not particularly high.

Still, you can make your trip both easier and safer by leaving your bags behind at a Bounce luggage storage right in York. We partner with local businesses operated by York residents to provide safe and secure luggage storage for bags of any size. Download our app to find your nearest Bounce location, and you can find luggage storage you need wherever you are and get on with enjoying your trip.

Safety tips to keep in mind during your time in York

York is one of the safest cities in the UK, but it’s always good to be prepared. Wherever there are tourists, there are people ready to prey on them, and while robberies and thefts are thankfully quite rare in York, it always pays to be aware of the risks that do exist.

Getting to York safely

York is well-connected to other major cities in the UK. Here are your travel options:

• Train: York Station is a major railway hub with direct trains from London, Edinburgh, and Manchester. It’s a safe and efficient way to reach the city. Both ticket inspectors and transit police regularly patrol trains, and your risk of a train being delayed or canceled is several times higher than your risk of being a victim of crime on one.
• Bus: National Express and Megabus services provide budget-friendly options to York. The main bus station is close to the city center, so if you're looking to save money, this can be a good way to reach the city.
• Driving: If you’re driving, be aware that parking in York can be limited and expensive. Use Park-and-Ride facilities for convenience and safety.

Tips to stay safe when you first arrive in York

• Pickpocketing: While York is very safe, petty theft can occur in crowded tourist areas. Keep your belongings secure, especially in the city center and during events. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the city, so there's no need to carry large amounts of cash on you. If you use your mobile phone as a wallet, that gives you one less thing to worry about, but it also means you're extremely vulnerable to that phone being stolen, so make sure that you have a phone that enables tracking technologies, locks your browsing data, and makes it impossible for thieves to access personal data if they do get hold of your device.
• Cycling: York is cyclist-friendly, but be cautious when navigating the busy streets and watch for pedestrians. Remember that in the UK, traffic comes from the right, so stay alert when riding a bike through the city.
• Walking: The cobbled streets can be uneven, so wear comfortable footwear and watch your step. Realistically, in this safe town, you are at far higher risk for a slip or fall than you are for any kind of violent crime.

Is tap water in York safe to drink?

Yes, tap water in York is safe to drink and is high quality. You can drink the tap water with no concerns. Carry a reusable water bottle to refill throughout your day.

Safe accommodation options in York

There are some of the safest and most convenient areas to stay:

• City Centre: Ideal for sightseeing, the city center has numerous hotels, guesthouses, and boutique accommodations within walking distance of major attractions, like York Minster. A far bigger worry than crime in the city center is the cost of staying here, as the popularity of this area makes it one of the more expensive in the city.
• Clifton: A quiet residential area just north of the city center, perfect for families or those seeking a peaceful stay. You can usually get some decent bargains here, and it's not too far from the heart of town if you don't mind using public transit.
• Fulford: Located to the south of York, this area offers a mix of modern and historic accommodations with easy access to the city.
• Heworth: A charming neighborhood with a village-like atmosphere, suitable for those wanting a quieter experience. You can take a day trip to York and enjoy the historical attractions, then retreat to the countryside to enjoy a slower pace of life.

Pro tip: If you arrive early or need to explore before checking in, remember that Bounce can store any size of bags for as long as you need for a flat daily fee. Leave your bags behind with us so that you can make the most of your time in York.

Cultural callouts & things to keep an eye out for

York’s rich history and vibrant culture make it an engaging destination. Here are some tips to enhance your visit:

• Etiquette: Greet locals with a friendly “hello” or “how are you?” and be polite in shops and restaurants.
• Language: English is the primary language, and the Yorkshire accent is warm and welcoming. They may use some slang terms you have never heard before, but once they realize you're not local, they can easily switch to more standard English. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if needed.
• Scams: Scams are rare, but always use official websites for tickets and avoid street vendors offering deals that seem too good to be true. Keep your wits about you, and you are very unlikely to be a victim of crime in this historic place.

Keeping safe when navigating the city

York is compact and best explored on foot, but here are some tips for safe navigation:

• Walking: Stick to well-lit streets at night and avoid secluded areas of the city walls after dark. That's a good general rule for any city.
• Cycling: Rent bikes from reputable providers and use designated cycling routes where available.
• Public transport: York’s buses are safe and reliable, providing easy access to surrounding areas.
• Taxis and ride-sharing: Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber for added safety and convenience. Always make sure that the driver is the one you booked on the app before you get into the car.

Nature and York: Safety tips to keep in mind

York’s natural beauty, from riverside walks to the nearby countryside, is a highlight of any visit. Here’s how to enjoy it safely:

• Riverside walks: The Ouse and Foss rivers offer scenic paths. Be cautious during wet weather, as paths can become slippery.
• Parks: Rowntree Park and the Museum Gardens are safe and family-friendly. Avoid secluded areas after sunset and note that Rowntree Park is in the Ouse floodplain.
• Weather: Yorkshire weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers and an umbrella to stay comfortable.
• Wildlife: Swans and ducks along the river are lovely but should not be fed bread, as it can harm them. Stick to feeding them grains or seeds if desired.

Last tips for emergencies

• Emergency numbers: Dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance services. For non-emergency police assistance, dial 101.
• Healthcare: York has excellent healthcare facilities, including York Hospital. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical care.
• Tourist assistance: Visit the York Visitor Information Centre for maps, advice, and support during your stay.

York’s rich history, friendly atmosphere, and stunning sights make it one of the UK’s most charming cities. Luckily, is York safe? Yes. The biggest city in North Yorkshire, York is still small enough to explore on foot and small enough that crime is rare. Leave your bags behind at a Bounce luggage storage, and you can take full advantage of everything historic and fun about this lovely city.