Bourton-on-the-Water Crime Rate

Bourton-on-the-Water boasts a safety score of 90/100, 11 points above the UK average, with a crime rate of 40.5 per 1,000 residents—55.5% below the national average. While the town is generally very safe, the sharp 466.7% YoY increase in 'Other crime' highlights an emerging concern. This category, which includes unclassified incidents, is 44% above the UK average, suggesting a need for local awareness and targeted interventions.

Bourton-on-the-Water is a picturesque market town in the Cotswolds, known for its historic charm and tranquil countryside setting. Its low population density and strong community networks likely contribute to its very safe profile. However, the presence of a small retail core and seasonal tourism may influence crime patterns, particularly in specific categories.

The most surprising finding in Bourton-on-the-Water's crime data is the elevated rate of 'Other crime'—44% above the UK average (2.9 vs 2.0 per 1,000). This category, which includes minor incidents like disorder or public nuisance, may reflect the town's unique character. While its overall property crime rate is 59.3% below the UK average, the rise in 'Other crime' suggests a need for targeted local interventions. Violence and sexual offences, though 56% below the UK average, have decreased by 27.6% YoY, likely due to effective community policing. Anti-social behaviour, though still below average, has risen by 25% YoY, possibly linked to increased foot traffic during peak tourism seasons. Vehicle crime, which is 56% below the UK average, has seen a 9% YoY increase, tied to temporary parking in the town centre during weekends.

Crime in Bourton-on-the-Water has decreased by 15.2% YoY, with most categories showing declines. However, 'Other crime' has surged by 466.7% YoY, far outpacing the UK average. This anomaly may reflect unclassified incidents or reporting changes. Monthly trends show a sharp peak in May 2025 (5.9 per 1,000) followed by a steady decline, likely influenced by seasonal tourism patterns. While overall crime is falling, the 'Other crime' spike underscores the need for localized monitoring and community engagement to address emerging concerns.

How To Keep Safe in Bourton-on-the-Water

Residents should focus on securing vehicles, as vehicle crime is 56% below the UK average but has increased by 9% YoY. Ensure cars are locked and not left unattended in residential areas. For 'Other crime,' which is 44% above the UK average, consider installing visible security measures like motion-sensor lights. While the area is very safe, awareness of seasonal fluctuations in 'Other crime'—particularly during peak tourism periods—can help maintain the town's low crime profile.

Crime in Bourton-on-the-Water follows distinct patterns tied to the area's daily rhythms. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm–6pm), likely linked to retail activity and foot traffic in the historic high street. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am–6am), possibly due to temporary parking in residential areas. 'Other crime' is most prevalent in the evening (6pm–12am), reflecting increased social interaction in the town's pubs and public spaces. Burglary, though rare, occurs more frequently at night, suggesting opportunistic targeting of unoccupied properties.

Compared to nearby areas, Bourton-on-the-Water's crime rate of 40.5 per 1,000 is 74% higher than Upper Rissington's 23.3 per 1,000 but 84% lower than Stow-on-the-Wold's 74.6 per 1,000. This reflects the broader Cotswold region's mix of historic market towns and more densely populated areas, with Bourton-on-the-Water benefiting from its low population density and strong community networks.

For Bourton-on-the-Water households, where 'Other crime' is 44% above the UK average, proactive security measures are essential, scOS's AI-powered boundary detection can identify potential threats at property perimeters, reducing the risk of unclassified incidents. Its DVLA vehicle verification feature helps flag stolen or cloned plates near homes, addressing the 9% YoY rise in vehicle crime. With property crime 59.3% below the UK average, scOS's real-time deterrence capabilities—like autonomous lighting and speaker activation—offer a meaningful upgrade over passive systems.