Bourton-on-the-Water Crime Rate January 2024 | Monthly Statistics

In January 2024, Bourton-on-the-Water’s crime rate stood at 3.7 per 1,000 residents, placing it 50% below the UK average of 7.4. This marked contrast with national trends highlights the area’s unique profile as a built-up Cotswold village, where low population density and limited retail infrastructure shape crime patterns. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 54.6% of all reported crimes, significantly outpacing property crimes (45.4%)—a reversal of the typical UK balance, where property crime often dominates. The seasonal context of January—a post-holiday month with shorter days and reduced retail activity—likely contributed to this shift, as outdoor crimes typically associated with tourism and shopping declined. Meanwhile, the high proportion of violent offences may reflect the area’s social dynamics, including the presence of a mix of permanent residents and transient visitors during the holiday season. The UK average for violence and sexual offences is 2.6 per 1,000, but Bourton-on-the-Water’s rate of 2.0 per 1,000 is 23% below, suggesting local efforts in community engagement or policing may play a role. However, the area’s burglary rate of 0.5 per 1,000—39% above the UK average of 0.4—raises questions about specific vulnerabilities, linked to the concentration of historic homes and limited security measures in the built-up area. These patterns illustrate the combination of geographic features, seasonal rhythms, and local policing priorities that shape crime trends in this Cotswold village.

Violent crimes dominated January 2024, making up 54.6% of all reported incidents—double the share of property crimes. This shift contrasts with the UK average, where violence is 23% below the national rate. Burglary and criminal damage both surged by 100% and 200% respectively, while anti-social behaviour dropped by 75%. The area’s burglary rate of 0.5 per 1,000 is 39% above the UK average, suggesting local vulnerabilities in property security. Meanwhile, shoplifting and other theft rates were 65% below national averages, likely reflecting the area’s low retail density and seasonal footfall. Residents may find the 100% increase in burglary particularly concerning, given the built-up area’s historical low rates in this category.

Bourton-on-the-Water’s crime rate in January 2024 rose 29.3% from 2.9 to 3.7 per 1,000 residents compared to December 2023. This increase aligns with typical seasonal patterns in the Cotswolds, where post-holiday periods often see shifts in criminal activity. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for every 270 residents, a figure that contextualises the monthly exposure for local residents. On a daily basis, the area saw an average of one crime per day, a rate that reflects the low overall crime profile typical of the built-up area. While the population of 5,933 residents means individual risk remains minimal, the upward trend warrants attention to emerging patterns. The area’s crime picture contrasts sharply with national averages, yet local factors such as reduced retail footfall in January may contribute to fluctuations in specific crime types.