Cotswold Crime Rate

The Cotswold recorded a crime rate of 59.0 per 1,000 residents between January 2025 and December 2025. This figure is lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting the area is comparatively safer. While crime has remained stable over the data period, understanding the specific types of offences and trends is crucial for residents. This report provides a detailed breakdown of crime statistics and offers practical safety advice to help residents feel secure within the Cotswold.

The Cotswold’s rural nature and dispersed population contribute significantly to its crime statistics. The area comprises numerous villages and small towns, with varying levels of activity and infrastructure. Demographics include a mix of families, retirees, and agricultural workers, each potentially influencing crime patterns. The relative isolation of some properties and the reliance on rural roads for transport may also present unique security challenges. Economic factors and the prevalence of tourism can further shape the types of crimes experienced within the Cotswold.

Violence and sexual offences represent the largest proportion of crimes in the Cotswold, accounting for 34.6% (1872 crimes) of the total. Anti-social behaviour follows, comprising 21.7% (1176 crimes). Other theft makes up 7.4% (400 crimes), while criminal damage and arson account for 6.7% (363 crimes). Property crime, in total, stands at 19.1 per 1,000, encompassing burglary (334 crimes), vehicle crime (257 crimes), and various forms of theft. Understanding the nuances within each category provides a more comprehensive picture of the criminal landscape within the Cotswold.

Crime in the Cotswold has remained stable, showing a slight decrease of -0.9% year-on-year. Monthly data from January 2025 to December 2025 reveals fluctuations, with higher crime rates observed in May (5.7 per 1,000) and July (5.4 per 1,000) compared to the lower rates in February (4.0 per 1,000) and September (4.8 per 1,000). These variations may be linked to seasonal factors, such as increased tourism or changes in community activity.

Compared to surrounding areas, the Cotswold generally exhibits a lower crime rate. Cheltenham, Gloucester, Tewkesbury, Stroud, and Swindon all have recorded crime rates of 0.0 per 1,000. This suggests that the Cotswold, while not completely crime-free, benefits from a comparatively safer environment than many of its neighbours. However, it is important to remember that crime rates can fluctuate and local conditions may vary.

Traditional CCTV systems often record incidents after they’ve occurred, offering little preventative value. scOS offers a proactive approach to home security, utilizing AI to detect potential threats at your property boundary before they escalate. Its multi-camera intelligence watches all cameras simultaneously, instantly verifying vehicle registrations with the DVLA and learning your family's routines to filter out normal activity. This means that instead of just recording a burglary, scOS actively prevents it by activating lights and speakers, creating an element of surprise and deterring potential criminals. Reading crime statistics is one thing. Actually stopping threats at your property line is another.

How To Keep Safe in the Cotswold

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, being aware of your surroundings and avoiding isolated areas, particularly at night, is essential. With anti-social behaviour also being a significant concern, reporting incidents to the authorities can help address these issues. Considering the risk of burglary, ensure your property is securely locked and well-lit. Finally, be vigilant regarding vehicle crime by parking in well-lit areas and securing your vehicles appropriately.