Knowing The Safest And Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods In Guildford For Students

Recognized for its heritage, picturesque scenery, good transport links to London by train, and student lifestyle. Guildford hosts 26,000 to 27,000 students every year from around the world. Being home to the prestigious University of Surrey with a QS ranking of #262 and growing numbers of international students, Guildford is recognized as one of the best student cities in the UK. Apart from being an academic institution, the city provides an exciting social life for its numerous students through its shopping centres, cafés, pubs, nightclubs, as well as parks, including Stoke Park and the nearby Surrey Hills. Despite Guildford's reputation as one of the safest UK cities for students, some areas in Guildford are noted for higher antisocial behaviour, petty crimes, robberies, and late-night nuisance than others. Therefore, knowing about the safest and most dangerous neighbourhoods in Guildford before choosing accommodation is necessary.

The cost of living in Guildford is relatively moderate, especially when compared to that of London, with an average cost of living for students ranging from £1,300 to £1,750 monthly. A large proportion of these costs is associated with student accommodation in Guildford, since rent per week usually ranges between £180 and £250 per week. Guildford stands out in terms of job opportunities with an employment index of 78.4%, benefiting from its proximity to London and its South East business zone. Guildford also features very highly on local happiness indices with a score of 7.75 / 10. 

Regarding safety, Guildford is relatively safer compared to other university towns in the UK, but it is important to know the safest and most dangerous neighbourhoods in Guildford as a precaution. As indicated by recent crime statistics provided by the Surrey Police and the UK, the crime rate in Guildford is around 85 crimes committed per 1,000 individuals each year, where the most frequently committed criminal offenses include stealing from shops, bicycle theft, vehicle crime, antisocial behaviour, and burglary.

5 Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods In Guildford, UK

Although Guildford is regarded as a relatively safe town, certain districts within it have reported instances of anti-social behaviour, robbery, and violent crimes more frequently. Such areas include Guildford Town Centre, Park Barn, and Bellfields because of their reputation for nightlife, shoplifting, and crime in general.

On the other hand, even the “tougher” areas in Guildford are perceived as safer compared to most UK university towns. The majority of issues encountered by students in Guildford are mainly caused by late-night disturbances and cycle thefts.

1. Guildford Town Centre

Crime Rate: 115-125 crimes per 1,000 residents

Guildford Town Centre registers as a dangerous neighbourhood in Guildford with a high crime rate due to activities such as nightlife crimes, theft at retail stores, and public disorder cases. Bars and clubs, as well as the High Street, are common areas where students may encounter crime due to drunk and disorderly conduct, assaults, and robberies for phones on weekends. 

2. Stoke

Crime Rate: 85-95 crimes per 1,000 residents

The crime rate in Stoke is generally high compared to other areas of Guildford, given that it is closer to the town centre, the railway station, and the pubs. Crime cases registered in Stoke include antisocial behaviour, theft, drunkenness, and the theft of bicycles. While Stoke is a dangerous neighbourhood in Guildford, it has continued to attract students due to its proximity to the University of Surrey. Students must be vigilant while moving around late at night.

3. Westborough

Crime Rate: 80-90 crimes per 1,000 residents

Crime rates are typically high in Westborough when compared to other areas in Guildford. Crimes related to car crime, burglary, and anti-social behaviour happen much more frequently in this particular dangerous neighbourhood in Guildford. Although development and policing efforts have enhanced the conditions in some of the locations, students who are new to Guildford are advised to be extra careful at night.

4. Onslow Village 

Crime Rate: 75-85 crimes per 1,000 residents

Onslow Village are dangerous neighbourhood in Guildford located near the University of Surrey campus, and has experienced many student-related crimes. Most cases are about stealing and antisocial behaviours. Crime prevails in ways like burglaries in HMOs when students are away on their holidays from university and shed break-ins.

5. Bellfields

Crime Rate: 70-78 crimes per 1,000 residents

Bellfields has a relatively high level of property crime as well as antisocial behaviour, compared to some other areas of Guildford that are more suburban. Incidents of vandalism, burglary, and vehicle crimes are reported more often in Bellfields than in other dangerous neighbourhoods in Guildford.

5 Safest Neighbourhoods In Guildford, UK

Several of Guildford's neighbourhoods are very quiet and family-oriented, making them extremely safe for students. The neighbourhoods such as Merrow, Burpham, Shalford, and Onslow Village have earned recognition for having extremely low rates of crime and creating a very relaxed and community-oriented environment.

The reason why these neighbourhoods have become so popular is due to the safety of the roads within them, while still having easy access to the centre of town and the University of Surrey's campus. Locals also refer to Guildford as one of the safest university towns in England.

1. Merrow

Safety Index: 90/100 (35 to 40 crimes per 1,000 residents)
Nearest University: University of Surrey (15-minute drive)

Merrow is considered to be one of the safest neighbourhoods in Guildford. This area is famous for its child-friendly surroundings, low crime rate, peaceful roads, and individual houses. As compared to central Guildford, the number of robberies and antisocial activities is much lower in Merrow. The residential nature of the area makes it suitable for postgraduate and international students.

2. Burpham

Safety Index: 88/100 (40 crimes per 1,000 residents)
Nearest University: University of Surrey (15-minute drive)

Burpham is one of the safest neighbourhoods in Guildford because of the minimal violence that occurs there, along with the residential nature of the area. The area is quite appealing to both families and professionals who value the quality of life and access to amenities provided in Burpham.

3. Pewley Down

Safety Index: 86/100 (25 crimes per 1000 residents)
Nearest University: University of Surrey (8-minute drive)

Pewley Down is one of the best suburbs in Guildford as it is both upscale and picturesque, and is located close to the Surrey Hills. Due to little traffic passing through, well-preserved residential roads, and high community involvement, crime rates are kept low. Even though the rent is quite expensive, it is still among the safest neighbourhoods in Guildford for students.

4. Shalford

Safety Index: 84/100 (30 crimes per 1,000 residents)
Nearest University: University of Surrey (9-minute drive)

This safest neighbourhoods in Guildford, Shalford is a tranquil village-like suburb that is characterized by quietness and minimal crime. This suburban place has an excellent railway network and greenery, yet it remains close enough to the university. Many students who want to live in quiet residential areas see Shalford as an ideal choice. 

5. Charlotteville

Safety Index: 81/100 (50 to 55 crimes per 1,000 residents)
Nearest University: University of Surrey (7-minute drive)

Charlotteville is known for maintaining lower crime rates than more populated student areas. Charlotteville’s quiet roads and cafés attract students seeking an opportunity to enjoy the centre of Guildford without residing in more lively student areas. Charlotteville is one of the safest neighbourhoods in Guildford and the most student-centric one. 

How amber Helps Students Find Safe Accommodation

Finding safe student accommodation in an unfamiliar city can be difficult, especially for first-year and international students. Amber helps students secure verified student housing in safer and student-friendly areas across Guildford and other major UK cities. Some popular and cheap student accommodation in Guildford includes:

• Bankside Student Living, Guildford: Starting from £255/week - For security, includes CCTV and bike storage. 
• The Bridge, Guildford: Starting from £245/week - For security, the property includes CCTV, bike storage, and on-site maintenance. 
• Ash Grove Court, Guildford: Starting from £320/week - For security, the property includes CCTV, bike storage, and maintenance.

Emergency Hotlines And Student Support Services In Guildford, UK

Student Safety Tips In Guildford

• Avoid walking alone late at night where possible, especially in areas close to nightlife hotspots and railway tunnels.
• Make sure that bicycles are properly locked using sturdy locks because bicycle theft is prevalent in student-populated locations.
• Select accommodations for students with a CCTV camera, security access system, and proper outdoor lighting.
• Take licensed taxis or university transport service vehicles after night-time events.
• Never display valuables when traveling to high-traffic commercial and nightlife districts.

Final Thoughts

Guildford is still one of the safest UK cities for students, with outstanding educational prospects, good connectivity, and a high standard of living. The Guildford neighbourhoods of Merrow, Burpham, and Shalford present among the safest places to live for the students, whereas the areas of Stoke, Westborough, and Guildford Town Centre are relatively more prone to crime. It is helpful for a student to research the safest and most dangerous neighbourhoods in Guildford, select legitimate housing, and know about local facilities.

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