Barnard Castle Crime Rate

Barnard Castle exhibits a crime rate of 67.8 incidents per 1,000 residents annually, between January 2025 and December 2025. This rate is lower than the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000, suggesting a comparatively safer environment. However, it is important to consider the specific types of crimes occurring and their impact on the community. Overall, there has been a significant decrease in crime rates over the reporting period, a trend which warrants further examination. While the overall figures are encouraging, understanding the nuances of local crime patterns remains crucial for ensuring community safety and well-being.

The crime landscape in Barnard Castle presents a mixed picture. Violence and sexual offences constitute the largest proportion of reported crimes, accounting for 36.3% (113 incidents) over the period from January 2025 to December 2025. Shoplifting follows as the second most prevalent crime type, representing 15.8% of incidents (49 crimes). Anti-social behaviour contributes another 11.6% (36 crimes), highlighting potential issues within the community. Criminal damage and arson are also notable, making up 11.2% (35 crimes). Overall, property crime accounts for 25.8 per 1,000 residents, indicating a moderate level of risk in this regard. The presence of these varied crime types suggests a need for targeted interventions and community engagement to address specific concerns.

Crime rates in Barnard Castle have experienced a significant decrease since January 2025. Monthly data reveals a fluctuating pattern, with notable lows in February (4.4 per 1,000/month) and November (3.9 per 1,000/month). December 2025 saw the lowest rate of the year (3.3 per 1,000/month), indicating a continuing downward trend. While fluctuations occur, the overall direction suggests a positive shift in community safety. This decrease is encouraging and warrants continued monitoring and analysis to understand the underlying factors contributing to this improvement.

How To Keep Safe in Barnard Castle

Given the prevalence of violence and sexual offences, it's advisable to avoid walking alone late at night, particularly in poorly lit areas. Be mindful of your surroundings and consider travelling with a friend or using a taxi service. Shoplifting incidents suggest a need for vigilance in public spaces; keep valuables secure and be aware of your environment. With criminal damage also being a factor, securing your property and reporting suspicious activity can help deter potential offenders. Finally, always lock your doors and windows, even when you're home, to prevent burglaries.

Criminal activity in Barnard Castle exhibits varying patterns throughout the day. Burglary incidents are most likely to occur in the afternoon (21%) and overnight (21%), suggesting a need for enhanced security measures during these periods. Vehicle crime tends to peak during the night (26%), underscoring the importance of secure parking. Theft is prevalent during commercial hours in the afternoon (35%), highlighting the vulnerability of businesses and public spaces. Overall, the evening hours (6pm - 12am) see a concentration of incidents, demanding heightened awareness and preventative measures.

When comparing Barnard Castle to its neighbours, crime rates vary. Startforth has a considerably higher rate at 118.0 per 1,000, while Cotherstone is notably safer with a rate of 46.8 per 1,000. Staindrop (56.8 per 1,000) and Cockfield (58.3 per 1,000) also have higher rates than Barnard Castle. These comparisons highlight that Barnard Castle sits within a region experiencing a range of crime levels, and understanding local context is vital.

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