Safest And Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods In Bath 2026

Moving away to university is not only exciting but also a major change; safety is one of those practical issues that parents and students alike think of first. For students planning to relocate, it is very useful to know the safest and most dangerous neighbourhoods. In Bath if they want to find an accommodation that will be conducive to their studies as well as provide a good level of security. International students, first-year undergraduates, and postgraduates looking for quiet private student accommodation in Bath are all in agreement that the neighbourhoods one chooses to live in are very important for the overall university experience.

Bath has a reputation of being one of the safest cities in the UK and a low crime rate is one of the reasons why a large number of students choose to study there. However, it is important to know that no city is 100% safe and therefore, there will always be some differences in the levels of safety from one neighbourhood to another. Some areas have more streetlights, better transport links and are cosier for students than others. This article looks at the safest and most dangerous neighbourhoods in Bath through the eyes of a student, helping you to come to the right conclusion without having to check several websites.

Why Neighbourhood Safety Matters for Students in Bath

Students are often on tight schedules, which consist of early morning lectures, late night study sessions, part-time jobs, and social outings. This leads to travelling during off-peak hours, sometimes alone, thus making neighborhood safety an essential point. Residing in one of the Safest and Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods in Bath can determine not only your comfort but also your daily routine and stress levels.

For international students who are not familiar with the city, safety is also one of the factors that significantly affects their confidence and independence. Selecting accommodation in areas that are known for a strong community presence, student footfall, and good transport facilities can significantly help the transition. Therefore, it is a good idea to look into the Safest and Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods in Bath before signing a lease.

How Safety Is Measured in Bath (From a Student Perspective)

In assessing the Safest and Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods in Bath, it is crucial to comprehend the methods of measuring safety. This guide considers safety primarily from a student's perspective rather than basing it exclusively on general crime statistics.

Key factors include:

• Frequency of student-related incidents such as bike theft or pickpocketing
• Visibility of police patrols and community monitoring
• Street lighting, especially on routes that students commonly walk
• Proximity to nightlife and late-night venues
• Local student population density

Rather than labelling areas negatively, this guide aims to help students recognise patterns and make informed choices about the safest and most dangerous neighbourhoods in Bath.

Safest Neighbourhoods in Bath for Students

Several areas consistently stand out as the safest neighbourhoods in Bath, especially for students who value security, convenience, and accessibility. The below given are known as the Low crime districts in Bath.

1. Oldfield Park

Population: 7,000–8,000 residents

Crime Rate: Low to moderate (mainly petty theft and student-related incidents)

Safety Index: 75–78 (considered very safe for students)

Average Rent:

• £160–£200 per week
• £650–£850 per month

Oldfield Park is generally known as one of the safest areas in Bath for students. A lot of student accommodation is located there, which naturally leads to more people around and thus more awareness. Moreover, the area is well-lit, served by regular bus services, and has local shops that stay open late, all factors that make one feel more secure.

Students living in this area often say they feel safe when walking home after evening lectures or social events. Oldfield Park appeals mainly to undergraduates because it is cheap and close to both universities, making it one of the best Bath crime-free neighbourhoods.

2.Widcombe

Population: 4,000–5,000 residents

Crime Rate: Low

Safety Index: 78–82 (one of the safest student-friendly areas)

Average Rent:

• £180–£220 per week
• £750–£950 per month

Widcombe is frequently listed among the low-crime districts that Bath students prefer. Located near the city centre, it combines residential calm with excellent connectivity. The neighbourhood has well-maintained streets, a strong community presence, and a reputation for being welcoming to students.

Its proximity to the University of Bath makes Widcombe particularly attractive for students who want to minimise commute time while still living in a secure environment.

3.Bathwick

Population: ~3,500–4,500 residents

Crime Rate: Very low

Safety Index: ~80–85 (highly secure and peaceful)

Average Rent:

• £190–£240 per week
• £800–£1,000 per month

Bathwick is often associated with Bath crime-free neighbourhoods, especially when compared to more nightlife-heavy areas. This neighbourhood is ideal for students who prefer quieter surroundings, scenic walks, and a more residential atmosphere.

It is especially popular among postgraduate and international students who prioritise peace and stability over nightlife access. The area’s layout and lighting also contribute to its strong safety perception.

4.Combe Down

Population: ~5,000–6,000 residents

Crime Rate: Very low

Safety Index: ~82–88 (one of Bath’s safest neighbourhoods)

Average Rent:

• £170–£210 per week
• £700–£900 per month

Combe Down is one of the low-crime areas in Bath that is recognised by several sources and is famous for its cosy village atmosphere. Although it is a bit further out from the city centre, it provides a peaceful setting that attracts students who like to have their privacy and be undisturbed.

PGR students and those working on demanding academic schedules usually opt for Combe Down because of its quiet nights and the strong bonds between neighbours.

Areas Students Should Be More Cautious About

There are parts of Bath that may require extra caution. Some areas are occasionally mentioned as high-crime areas that Bath residents keep an eye on, mainly because of a higher number of minor offences reported.

Moreover, some areas in the city centre of Bath may become crime hotspots during the weekends when nightlife activity is at its peak. These parts are not inherently dangerous, but the combination of large crowds and alcohol consumption increases the risk of petty crime.

Generally, a couple of the Bath streets considered dangerous are those that most probably have poor lighting or are deserted at night. Students living there or nearby should be careful and follow measures like always taking the main roads, not using shortcuts, and travelling in groups.

Student Safety Tips for Living in Bath

Understanding the Safest and Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods in Bath is only part of staying secure. Students should also adopt everyday safety habits that make city living easier.

Practical tips include:

• Walking on main roads instead of secluded shortcuts
• Using late-night bus services rather than walking long distances
• Locking bicycles and securing valuables at all times
• Staying aware of surroundings, especially after dark

These habits are especially useful for students new to Bath or unfamiliar with local routes.

Cost of Living vs Safety: What Should Students Prioritise?

Many students juggle affordability and safety when picking accommodation. Areas linked to cheaper rent might look appealing, but it's equally essential to take Bath crime statistics and, safest areas into account, besides just budget constraints.

Spending a little extra on lodging in a safer area can be quite beneficial as it may lessen stress, boost your overall living conditions, and even give you better access to the campus and transport facilities. According to a lot of students, putting money into safety is something that really brings dividends later on and helps in the cost of living in Bath.

What Students Commonly Say About Living in Bath

Most students say that Bath is a very friendly place for students, easy to get around on foot, and generally very student-friendly. Students who look into the Safest and Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods in Bath before moving say that it helped them feel more confident and settled during their university life.

International students usually focus their attention on areas where there are lots of students, whereas postgraduates prefer quieter areas. However, no matter who they are, student groups all share the safety concern.

Quick Comparison of Student-Friendly Areas

While Bath offers a range of neighbourhoods, the safest options consistently provide:

• Strong lighting and public transport
• High student footfall
• Low disturbance levels
• Easy access to essential services

Choosing wisely within the Safest and Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods in Bath ensures a smoother university experience.

Final Verdict: Where Should Students Live in Bath?

In comparison to bigger cities, Bath continues to be one of the UK's safer cities for students. Once students know the Safest and Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods in Bath, they can choose homes that not only help their studies but also their overall well-being.

Oldfield Park, Widcombe, Bathwick, and Combe Down are some of the areas that are safe, easily accessible, and attractive to students. If you take the time to prepare and stay aware, Bath can be a great and cosy place to live during your university years.

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