How safe is Durham

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 11/10/2024

Is Durham Safe to Visit in 2023?

Tourist reading map
A solo traveler navigates through the city streets with a map, exemplifying the importance of staying orientated to ensure personal safety.

Stepping into Durham is like turning a page into a living history book. Wrapped in a cocoon of medieval charm, punctuated by cobbled lanes, castle towers and the iconic Durham Cathedral. Now I know your mind is buzzing with questions like "Is it safe?" especially in these changing times. Well, dear traveller, let's dive right into the heart of the matter.

Transport & Taxis Risk

Navigating Durham is quite a breeze, thanks to the reliable and efficient public transport system. Buses are frequent and have many routes covering the city. Taxis come in two flavours, Hackney Carriages (Black Cabs) and private hire vehicles. Ensure you only use licenced taxis, easily identified by Durham city council stickers. Generally, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings will serve you well in avoiding any unforeseen taxi risks.

Pickpockets Risk

Fire safety equipment
The image captures essential fire safety equipment, including an extinguisher and a coiled fire hose, ready for emergency use in a red-painted hallway.

No city is immune to pickpockets, and Durham is no exception. While Durham has lower than average crime rates compared to other UK cities, it never hurts to take precautions. Keep your belongings close, and ensure your bags are securely closed. Better still, take a leaf out of the good old marmoset's book - the "eyes in the back of your head". In simpler terms, stay alert!

Natural Disasters Risk

If you're imagining Durham being swept away by hurricanes or torn apart by volcanos, you're far off track. The city is largely sheltered from major natural disasters, being more prone to grey skies and short bursts of rain. So, unless you consider forgetting an umbrella a calamity, there's really no cause for alarm.

Terrorism Risk

Bungee jumping scene
An adrenaline seeker bungee jumps from a platform, demonstrating both the thrill and necessary safety measures of the sport with a scenic mountainous backdrop.

The global threat of terrorism is a reality we all grapple with today. The UK's terrorism threat level is currently set to "substantial", meaning an attack is likely. But rest assured, Durham is generally a peaceful city. So breathe easy but stay informed. The government's website regularly updates the information.

Scams Risk

Durham, though mostly scam-free, isn't entirely devoid of tricky situations. Watch out for suspicious reservations or phantom event tickets online. Your best bet against scams? Be a sceptic! When deals seem too good to be true, they probably are.

Women Travelers Risk

Women travelers in Durham can generally breathe easy. Durham is a welcoming city known for its friendly locals. However, this is not a blanket statement; staying cautious and exercising the usual travel safety measures is advised.

So, is Durham safe to visit in 2023? Most certainly. All roads, or rather, all cobblestones, lead to Durham. Just remember, be it Durham or elsewhere, balance adventure with caution, and always keep travel insurance in your pocket. It covers unexpected costs from cancelled flights to medical emergencies, giving you peace of mind as you chase the sun, the historical sights, or the thrill ride of your choice.

Enjoy your visit to Durham and may your only worries be about whether to have your scone with clotted cream or butter.

Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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