Coltishall and Horstead Crime Rate

Coltishall and Horstead are highly secure riverside villages with an overall crime rate of 29.3 per 1,000 people, which is significantly lower than the UK average of 91.7. This earns the area an exceptional safety score of 92/100, indicating a peaceful environment for its residents. While the crime trend shows a 16.7% increase year-over-year, the absolute volume of crime remains very low. Data from December 2024 to November 2025 reveals that property crime rates are minimal, with burglary and vehicle crime being particularly rare. This analysis provides a detailed look at the local crime breakdown, time-based patterns, and practical safety advice to help the Coltishall and Horstead community stay informed and protected.

In Coltishall and Horstead, the crime breakdown is led by violence and sexual offences, which account for 51 incidents (17.8 per 1,000 residents), representing 60.7% of all recorded crime. Other theft is the second most common at 8.3% (7 crimes), followed by criminal damage and arson and anti-social behaviour, each at 7.1% (6 crimes each).

Property-related crime—which includes burglary, theft, vehicle crime, and criminal damage—occurs at an overall rate of 6.3 per 1,000 people. This includes 7 cases of 'other theft', 6 instances of criminal damage, 2 burglaries (2.4% of total crime), and 2 shoplifting incidents. Vehicle crime was not recorded in the latest period. While property crime is exceptionally low compared to the UK average, it still represents about a fifth of local offences. For residents, this means that while violent crime is the dominant category, the risk of property-related incidents is minimal, providing a high level of security for homes and assets in these riverside villages.

Coltishall and Horstead's crime rate has seen a 16.7% increase over the last year. However, it is important to note that because the overall volume of crime is so low, even a small number of additional incidents can result in a percentage increase. Looking at the monthly data from December 2024 to November 2025, the crime rate was consistently very low. It began at 2.4 in December and fluctuated slightly throughout the year.

The rate remained within a narrow range, with minor peaks in January and April (3.1) and a low of 2.1 in several months. The year ended with a rate of 2.4 in November 2025. These patterns are typical for smaller communities where a few incidents can impact the monthly rate, but the overall trend remains well within the range of an exceptionally safe village. The consistently low figures reinforce the area's reputation as a secure and peaceful residential hub.

How To Keep Safe in Coltishall and Horstead

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crime types in Coltishall and Horstead, though the actual volume is low. Residents should maintain personal awareness, especially when walking in less lit residential areas or near the river at night. It is always advisable to stick to well-lit routes and let someone know your plans if you are out alone.

Regarding property safety, theft is most common during the morning and afternoon (over 60% of crimes in those periods). Ensure that all outbuildings, such as sheds and garages, are securely locked, and avoid leaving valuable tools or bicycles on display. Since burglary percentages peak significantly at night (23%), always double-check that your home is fully secured before bed. Anti-social behaviour and criminal damage are also factors; if you experience these, report them to the local authorities to help maintain the area's exceptional safety standards. Finally, although shoplifting is very low, local businesses should remain vigilant during peak afternoon hours when retail activity is highest.

Crime in Coltishall and Horstead follows distinct patterns throughout the day. Morning and afternoon hours are heavily dominated by theft-related offences, accounting for 61% and 60% of crimes during these periods respectively. This likely correlates with daytime residential and tourist activity along the river. As evening approaches, the nature of crime shifts toward public order and anti-social behaviour, which are grouped under 'Other' crimes, peaking at 58% in the evening. The night period (12am - 6am) sees a significant change, with the percentage of burglaries (23%) reaching its highest point. Overall crime volume is typically lowest in the early morning hours, with activity increasing as the day progresses and peaking in the late afternoon and evening.

Coltishall and Horstead are located in a very safe part of Broadland. When compared to nearby Frettenham, which has a higher crime rate of 32.8 per 1,000, and Hoveton and Wroxham at 49.5, these villages are notably more secure. While Badersfield reported an even lower rate of 13.9, Coltishall and Horstead's rate of 29.3 is excellent for their population size and popularity with tourists. Very small settlements like Hainford reported no crimes during this period. Overall, Coltishall and Horstead remain premier choices for residents seeking a low-crime riverside environment with a safety profile far superior to the national average.

Coltishall and Horstead have an exceptionally low property crime rate of 6.3 per 1,000 people, which includes theft and burglary. Vehicle crime was notably absent from the recent data. However, the psychological impact of any property crime in such a quiet area can be significant. Traditional security systems, such as basic CCTV or video doorbells, are often reactive—they record footage of a crime but do not intervene to stop it.

For real protection, residents should consider a proactive AI-powered system like scOS. By monitoring all cameras simultaneously, scOS can detect potential threats at the property boundary before a crime occurs. If an intruder is identified, the system can autonomously activate lights and speakers to deter them. This proactive approach destroys the element of surprise and encourages criminals to move on to easier targets. In an area like Coltishall and Horstead, where burglary risk peaks at night, the visible presence of a professional-grade security system like scOS is a highly effective way to ensure your property remains safe and secure.