Cheltenham’s crime rate in November 2024 stood at 8.5 per 1,000 residents, placing it 11.8% above the UK average of 7.6 per 1,000. This figure underscores the town’s ongoing challenges with violent and property-related offences, which together accounted for over 60% of all reported crimes. Violence and sexual offences were the most prevalent category, contributing 31.3% of total incidents, followed by anti-social behaviour at 19.6% and shoplifting at 11.3%. These patterns align with Cheltenham’s identity as a tourist destination and a hub for higher education, where seasonal events such as Bonfire Night and Black Friday shopping may amplify opportunities for anti-social behaviour and retail crime. The month’s darker evenings and colder weather likely contributed to the lower-than-expected rates of public order offences and vehicle crime, which saw an 18% and 14% deficit respectively compared to the UK average. While the overall rate remains elevated, the data also reveals pockets of improvement, such as the 29% reduction in criminal damage and arson compared to the UK average, which may reflect effective local policing or community engagement strategies. This interplay between seasonal dynamics and local initiatives paints a complex picture of Cheltenham’s crime profile, one that requires careful analysis to identify both persistent challenges and emerging trends.