Is Cambridge safe? What you should know

Cambridge is one of the UK's most famous cities. For the most part, that's thanks to the presence of Cambridge University which, along with Oxford University, is one of the oldest and best regarded in the world.

When most people think of Cambridge, they think of tweedy professors, ancient buildings, and green lawns along the River Cam. What they don't think of is pickpockets, muggers, and violent criminals.

That's because these kinds of crimes are very rare in this small city. Cambridge has an overall crime rate of 97 crimes per 1000 people, which is positively quaint compared to most major European and American cities, to say nothing of the rest of the world. Cambridge ranks as the 36th safest town in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, which is pretty impressive when you consider that the country as a whole has a fairly low crime rate to begin with.

In other words, you don't need to worry too much about your safety in Cambridge like you might in other cities. This is a safe place to explore, and what crime there is mostly consists of petty crimes including pickpocketing and bike theft. Thanks to its youthful student population, the streets of Cambridge stay busy at night, helping to make them less dangerous. You can explore the city without worry for your safety.

Still, if you want the safest experience possible, consider leaving your bags behind with a Bounce luggage storage spot in Cambridge. Not only can we keep your belongings safe in our secure facilities, but our luggage storage service also allows you to explore hands-free without being weighed down. We have multiple locations throughout this very safe place, so you can always find somewhere to leave your things.

Safety tips to keep in mind during your time in Cambridge

Cambridge is one of the safest cities in the UK, but it’s always wise to be prepared and aware of your surroundings. Pickpockets and scammers exist here like everywhere else, along with the occasional drunken fistfight, but as long as you practice basic personal safety precautions, you should be fine.

Getting to Cambridge safely

Cambridge is well-connected to London and other major cities in the UK. Here are your transportation options:

• Train: Trains from London King’s Cross or Liverpool Street to Cambridge are fast and reliable, taking about 45 minutes to an hour. The train station is about a mile from the city center, and taxis or buses are readily available. Trains are regularly patrolled by ticket inspectors and public transport police, and there are emergency telephone systems in the train carriages and in the train stations so you can contact law enforcement if you need to.
• Bus: Coaches from major cities like London are more budget-friendly but take longer. Services like National Express and Megabus are safe and convenient.
• Driving: If you’re driving, be aware that parking in central Cambridge can be limited and expensive. Park-and-ride facilities on the outskirts offer a safer and more practical alternative. Don't forget that in the UK, cars drive on the right-hand side of the road.

Tips to stay safe when you first arrive in Cambridge

• Pickpocketing: Petty theft is rare but can happen in busy areas like the market square or at Cambridge Station. Keep your belongings secure by leaving them behind with Bounce.
• Cycling: Cambridge is a cyclist-friendly city, but traffic can be tricky for first-timers. Use designated bike lanes and always wear a helmet.
• Crossing roads: Be mindful of cyclists and buses when crossing streets, especially in the city center where traffic is dense. Remember that traffic in the UK comes from the right, not the left as it does in most countries, so always check both ways before crossing the street.

Is tap water in Cambridge safe to drink?

Yes, tap water in Cambridge is safe to drink and of excellent quality. Carry a reusable bottle to refill at public water fountains or cafes.

Safe accommodation options in Cambridge

Cambridge offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the safest and most convenient areas to stay:

• City Centre: Perfect for accessing major attractions, the city center has plenty of hotels, guesthouses, and boutique accommodations. This is where you'll find the best museums and the gorgeous colleges of the University, so it makes sense that you may want to stay here and avoid having to rely on public transportation to get around and see the sights. Also, most of the best restaurants and pubs are in this area, and it's fairly close to the railway station.
• Newnham: A peaceful, leafy neighborhood close to the River Cam, ideal for families or those seeking tranquility. Staying here is a great way to get a sense of the more relaxed side of the city.
• Chesterton: Located slightly north of the city center, this area offers a quieter atmosphere with good transport links.
• Trumpington: On the outskirts of Cambridge, this area is perfect for those looking for modern amenities and easy access to the countryside. While it's not exactly a nightlife hotspot, it is a good place to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

Pro tip: If you arrive early or need to explore before checking in, consider using luggage storage services like Bounce to roam the city hands-free. We can store any size of bag for as long as you need so that you never have to worry about who is taking care of your things while you explore.

Cultural callouts & things to keep an eye out for

Cambridge’s rich history and academic legacy come with cultural quirks that are worth noting:

• Etiquette: Locals are polite and reserved. Greet with a smile and a “hello” or “how are you?” to make a good impression. Remember that in England, "Alright?" is also a perfectly acceptable greeting, and it does not actually mean that someone is asking if you're okay.
• Dress code: Casual attire is acceptable in most places, but formal dress may be required for certain university events or fine dining. Some nightclubs in the city also insist on some level of formalwear including dress shoes, so if you plan to go out, be aware of that.
• Language: English is the primary language, but you’ll often hear other languages spoken due to Cambridge’s international student population.
• Scams: Scams are uncommon, but always use official ticketing sites for attractions and avoid unsolicited offers from street vendors. Remain vigilant of anyone offering you reduced tickets to attractions.

Keeping safe when navigating the city

Cambridge is compact and easy to navigate on foot or by bike. Here’s how to get around safely:

• Walking: Stick to well-lit streets at night, especially if you’re exploring quieter areas.
• Cycling: Cambridge is known for its cycling culture. Rent a bike from reputable providers and always lock it securely when not in use.
• Public transport: Buses are safe and reliable, with regular services connecting the city center to outer neighborhoods.
• Taxis and ride-sharing: Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps like Uber for added safety and convenience.

Nature and Cambridge: Safety tips for travelers

Cambridge’s idyllic green spaces and river walks are highlights of the city, but they require some caution:

• Punting: If you’re punting on the River Cam, opt for a guided tour if you’re inexperienced. Avoid standing up in the punt to prevent tipping over. You may want to leave your mobile phone and other water-sensitive items behind with a Bounce luggage storage before you head out on the water.
• Parks: The city’s parks, like Parker’s Piece and Jesus Green, are safe during the day. Avoid secluded areas after dark.
• Weather: The UK’s weather can be unpredictable. Carry an umbrella and wear layers to stay comfortable.
• Wildlife: Swans and geese along the river are generally harmless but can become aggressive if provoked. Maintain a safe distance.

Last tips in case of an emergency

• Emergency numbers: Dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance services. For non-emergencies, contact the local police at 101.
• Healthcare: Cambridge has excellent healthcare facilities, including Addenbrooke’s Hospital. Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical care.
• Tourist assistance: Visit the Cambridge Tourist Information Centre for maps, advice, and support during your stay.

So, is Cambridge safe enough for the average traveler? Yes, Cambridge is a charming and safe city with a wonderful blend of history, culture, nightlife, and nature. Visiting the city will put you in touch with hundreds of years of British history, but it will also show you what life is like in a modern British town with a high population of students. Whether you've never been to the UK before or you live in the country, a visit to Cambridge can show you some of the best of British culture.

Leave your bags behind with Bounce not just for security but also to make your trip easier. With your belongings safely stowed away, you can focus on everything there is to do and see here.