Safest & Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods In Bristol

Is Bristol a safe place to live? The truth is, yes, as long as you choose the right neighbourhood. Bristol is one of the UK’s most creative & student-friendly cities, but safety levels change a lot from one neighbourhood to another in Bristol. Some areas feel quiet, leafy, & community-focused, while others see more crime, & people need to stay more careful, especially after dark. That difference matters. The Bristol city guide gives you a deeper understanding.

From a student’s point of view, a young professional, or a first-time renter planning to live in Bristol city centre or nearby areas, this guide helps you make a smart decision. We study the safest & most dangerous neighbourhoods in Bristol using crime data, safety indexes, walkability scores, nearby universities, lifestyle insights, & real-world vibes, instead of only sharing surface-level information.
Because where you live shapes how safe you feel.

We cover the best neighbourhoods in Bristol and also point out the areas you should stay away from if safety matters to you. Not just on paper, but in everyday life.

Safest Neighbourhoods in Bristol

Locals often say these areas usually rank among the safest neighbourhoods in Bristol. They offer a better quality of life, a stronger sense of community, & lower crime rates compared to the city average.

1. Clifton

Stats at a glance:

Crime Index: ~32/100 (Low)

Safety Index: ~68/100

Walkability: 9/10

Average Rent: £850–£1,200/month

Nearest Universities: University of Bristol (main campus within walking distance)

Clifton is one of the most iconici areas in Bristol & is widely regarded as one of the safest. Known for its Georgian townhouses, village-like atmosphere, & academic crowd, Clifton attracts students, university staff, & professionals who prioritise safety & walkability.

Crime in Clifton is generally limited to minor incidents like bicycle theft, while violent crime rates remain well below the Bristol average. The neighbourhood benefits from consistent foot traffic, good lighting, & a strong sense of community, making it feel secure both during the day & at night.

Lifestyle & amenities:
Clifton has a premium lifestyle with access to Clifton Village, independent cafés, artisan bakeries, & classic brunch spots like Primrose Café. You’ll find quiet study-friendly spaces, boutique restaurants, & access to Christchurch Library. Proximity to Clifton Downs & the iconic Suspension Bridge adds to the area’s calm, upscale vibe, making it ideal for students who want safety without sacrificing aesthetics.

2. Redlands

Stats at a glance:

Crime Index: ~34/100

Safety Index: ~66/100

Walkability: 8.5/10

Average Rent: £750–£1,100/month

Nearest Universities: University of Bristol, BIMM Bristol

Redlands is a low-key residential neighbourhood that sits just north of the city centre & is a long-time favourite among students & families. It’s quieter than Clifton but still well-connected, making it one of the most balanced areas in Bristol to live.

Safety in Redlands is driven by its residential nature , fewer bars, limited nightlife, & wide streets reduce late-night disturbances. Crime rates here are mostly limited to non-violent offences, & the area usually performs better than the city average for safety.

Lifestyle & amenities:
Redland Green is the heart of the neighbourhood, offering open space for walks & study breaks. You’ll find local cafés, independent grocery stores, & quiet pubs rather than loud clubs. Libraries, community centres, & easy bus connections make Redland especially appealing for students who want a calm but connected lifestyle.

3. Bishopston

Stats at a glance:

Crime Index: ~38/100

Safety Index: ~62/100

Walkability: 9/10

Average Rent: £700–£1,050/month

Nearest Universities: University of Bristol, UWE Bristol (direct bus routes)

Bishopston blends safety with social energy, making it one of the best neighbourhoods in Bristol for students who want an active lifestyle without constant safety concerns. It’s lively without being chaotic.

The area benefits from high visibility, busy streets, & a wide range of resident population, which naturally discourages serious crime. While petty theft can occur, overall safety levels remain strong compared to other inner-city neighbourhoods.

Lifestyle & amenities:
Bishopston is centred around Gloucester Road, famous for being one of the longest independent shopping streets in the UK. Students love the abundance of cafés, vegan eateries, second-hand & bookstores, co-working cafés, & late-night dessert spots. Libraries & quiet study cafés are easy to find, making it a strong all-rounder neighbourhood.

4. Stoke Bishop

Stats at a glance:

Crime Index: ~30/100

Safety Index: ~70/100

Walkability: 7/10

Average Rent: £800–£1,200/month

Nearest Universities: University of Bristol

Stoke Bishop is one of the most peaceful & safest areas in Bristol UK, especially popular with postgraduate students & university staff. It’s home to several University of Bristol student residences, which adds to the area’s monitored & secure environment.

With limited nightlife & mostly residential streets, crime levels here are among the lowest in the city. Incidents are rare & typically non-violent.

Lifestyle & amenities:
Expect gardens, river walks, & small local cafés rather than busy high streets. It’s quiet, safe, & ideal for focused academic life. While nightlife is limited, transport links make it easy to reach the city centre when needed.

5. Henleaze

Stats at a glance:

Crime Index: ~29/100

Safety Index: ~71/100

Walkability: 7.5/10

Average Rent: £750–£1,100/month

Nearest Universities: University of Bristol, UWE Bristol

Henleaze is often overlooked but usually ranks as one of the safest neighbourhoods in Bristol. It has a village-like atmosphere with strong local engagement & minimal crime.

The area benefits from low population density, high owner-occupancy, & limited through-traffic, all factors that contribute to safety.

Lifestyle & amenities:
Henleaze High Street has independent cafés, bakeries, & essential stores. Libraries, parks, & quiet study-friendly cafés are easily accessible. It’s ideal for students or professionals who prioritise safety & calm over nightlife.

Most Dangerous Neighbourhoods in Bristol

These dangerous neighbourhoods in Bristol record higher crime rates than the city's average. While many residents live here without incident, students & newcomers should be more cautious. Crime is street-specific. Many residents live here safely. Safety varies by time of day.

1. Hartcliffe

Hartcliffe usually records some of the highest crime rates in Bristol, particularly related to anti-social behaviour & violent offences.

Stats at a glance:

• Crime Index: ~72/100 (High)
• Safety Index: ~28/100
• Walkability: 6/10
• Nearest Universities: None nearby

Why caution is needed: Limited amenities, weaker transport links, & fewer student-friendly spaces make Hartcliffe less suitable for students despite lower rents.

2. Lawrence Hill

Lawrence Hill’s central location makes it busy, but crime levels remain a concern, particularly after dark.

Stats at a glance:

• Crime Index: ~75/100
• Safety Index: ~25/100
• Walkability: 8/10
• Nearest Universities: University of Bristol (bus access)

Why caution is needed: High-density housing & frequent reports of theft & drug-related incidents impact overall safety.

3. St Paul’s

St Paul’s is culturally rich but has long struggled with safety issues.

Stats at a glance:

• Crime Index: ~70/100
• Safety Index: ~30/100
• Walkability: 8.5/10
• Nearest Universities: University of Bristol

Why caution is needed: Night-time incidents & higher violent crime rates require increased awareness.

4. Knowle West

Knowle West remains in transition due to redevelopment efforts but still faces safety challenges.

Stats at a glance:

• Crime Index: ~68/100
• Safety Index: ~32/100
• Walkability: 6.5/10
• Nearest Universities: Limited access

Why caution is needed: Higher burglary & vehicle crime rates compared to other areas in Bristol.

5. Easton

Easton is amazing & wide-ranging, but experiences fluctuating safety levels.

Stats at a glance:

• Crime Index: ~65/100
• Safety Index: ~35/100
• Walkability: 9/10
• Nearest Universities: University of Bristol, UWE Bristol

Why caution is needed: Busy nightlife & high foot traffic contribute to higher incident reports.

Bristol as a City: What Living Here Really Feels Like

Bristol is more than a map of safe & unsafe postcodes. As one of the UK’s most progressive & creative cities, Bristol offers a lifestyle shaped by academic excellence, cultural diversity, & strong job opportunities. When people ask is Bristol a safe place to live or is Bristol safe to live, the answer depends more on how individual Bristol neighbourhoods work than on the city as a whole. It’s about context.

The city hosts two major universities, the University of Bristol & UWE Bristol, and they attract a large student population each year. This student presence strengthens safety infrastructure, improves public transport coverage, & supports late-night services & policing in student-heavy areas in Bristol. Neighbourhoods near campuses & city hubs benefit from better lighting, more CCTV, & higher footfall, and this improves safety. Student presence changes how areas operate.

Bristol also performs well for walkability & public transport, especially in central & north Bristol. Many neighbourhoods in Bristol centre around high streets, community parks, & mixed-use spaces, and this makes daily life easier without using cars. Areas like Clifton, Redland &, Bishopston, & the city centre stay active throughout the day, and this helps residents feel more secure. Activity brings visibility.

However, rapid growth has created clear contrasts. Some areas in Bristol to live benefit from regeneration & rising dem&, while other areas still face social inequality. These differences appear in crime data and matter when choosing where to stay, especially if you plan to stay in Bristol city centre or rent long-term.

Tips for Staying Safe in Bristol

Bristol is a lively and welcoming city, but like any major urban hub, a little awareness goes a long way. Always stay alert in busy areas such as Broadmead, Harbourside, and around major transport hubs, especially during late evenings. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid using your phone excessively while walking. When using public transport, keep your belongings close and be mindful of your surroundings. It’s a good idea to save emergency contacts and use trusted taxi or ride-hailing services when travelling at night. If you’re cycling, very popular in Bristol, lock your bike securely using a sturdy D-lock. For students, staying connected with university safety services and local community alerts can be extremely helpful. Most importantly, trust your instincts, if something doesn’t feel right, move to a safer, more populated space.

Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Neighbourhood in Bristol

Bristol is a dynamic, creative, & student-friendly city, but your experience depends strongly on the neighbourhood you choose. Neighbourhoods in Bristol vary a lot in safety, lifestyle, & affordability, from quiet residential areas to busy inner-city districts. This choice affects your daily routine more than most people expect.

If safety comes first, areas like Clifton, Redland, Henleaze, Stoke Bishop, & Bishopston stand out as the safest neighbourhoods in Bristol. These areas offer lower crime rates, strong walkability, reliable transport links, & easy access to cafés, libraries, gardens, & universities. Many students choose these locations for peace of mind & daily convenience. Most people realise this only after they’ve lived in Bristol for a few months.

In contrast, areas such as Hartcliffe, Lawrence Hill, St Paul’s, Knowle West, & parts of Easton report higher crime levels. Although rents may cost less, many students & first-time renters list these areas among the places to avoid in Bristol, especially without prior knowledge of the city. Lower rent can look tempting at first, but it often comes with trade-offs.

So, is Bristol safe to live in? Yes, when you choose wisely. Bristol remains one of the UK’s most desirable cities, but choosing the right area in Bristol UK makes all the difference. Use this guide to compare crime trends, walkability, nearby universities, & daily lifestyle factors before you decide where to live. No neighbourhood is perfect, but some make daily life feel much easier.

Whether you move for studies, work, or your first independent home, understanding the safest & most dangerous neighbourhoods in Bristol helps you make a smarter & safer choice. With the right neighbourhood, Bristol offers an exciting, secure, & rewarding city experience. That peace of mind is what people usually remember long after moving in.

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