Ashbourne Crime Rate

Ashbourne's crime rate of 68.4 per 1,000 residents is 24.8% below the UK average, yet public order offences stand out as 24% above the national benchmark. Despite a 21.9% year-on-year increase in overall crime, property crime remains 45.3% below the UK average, reflecting strong local safety measures. The sharp 82% rise in drugs offences highlights a concerning trend, warranting closer attention.

Ashbourne is a built-up area within Derbyshire Dales, characterised by a mix of residential and commercial properties. Its proximity to major roads and a moderate population density may influence crime patterns, particularly in areas with higher foot traffic or commuter activity. The area's relatively low property crime rate suggests strong community engagement and effective local policing, though public order issues remain a focus for improvement.

Ashbourne's most surprising finding is the 24% elevation in public order crimes compared to the UK average (7.8 vs 6.3 per 1,000). This may reflect local events or community dynamics, such as transient populations or unregulated public spaces. Property crime, however, is 45.3% below the UK average (17.5 vs 31.9), likely due to effective home security measures and lower economic deprivation. Violence and sexual offences, though rising by 16% YoY, remain 5% below the UK average, possibly due to strong community support networks. The sharp 82% YoY increase in drugs offences may indicate evolving patterns in substance use or policing strategies.

Ashbourne's crime rate has increased by 21.9% year-on-year, with a clear seasonal pattern. The peak in July 2025 (8.1 per 1,000/month) coincides with longer evenings and potential tourism activity, while the lowest point in April 2025 (4.2 per 1,000/month) aligns with reduced outdoor activity. The 82% surge in drugs offences is particularly alarming, possibly due to increased availability or shifts in policing focus. Violence and sexual offences have risen by 16%, while property crime remains 45.3% below the UK average, suggesting targeted efforts have mitigated certain risks.

How To Keep Safe in Ashbourne

Residents should prioritise securing communal spaces, as public order issues are 24% above the UK average. For property protection, ensure windows and doors are well-lit, particularly in areas near public pathways. Community engagement, such as reporting anti-social behaviour promptly, can help mitigate rising public order concerns. Given Ashbourne's low property crime rate, focus on targeted measures like secure parking for vehicles, which have seen an 8% YoY increase in offences.

Crime in Ashbourne follows distinct temporal patterns. Theft peaks in the afternoon (42% of incidents), aligning with retail activity and potential shoplifting opportunities. Vehicle crime spikes at night (25% of incidents), likely linked to unsecured parking and reduced visibility. Burglary is most common overnight (21% of incidents), suggesting opportunistic targeting during low-traffic hours. Other crimes dominate in the evening (61% of incidents), possibly tied to social gatherings or anti-social behaviour. These patterns reflect the area's mix of residential and commercial spaces, with weekday activity differing from weekend spikes in nightlife-related incidents.

Ashbourne's crime rate of 68.4 per 1,000 is 118% higher than Mayfield (East Staffordshire)'s 31.4 and 134% higher than Hulland Ward's 29.3. This contrast may stem from Ashbourne's larger population and mixed-use development, which can foster more opportunities for anti-social behaviour and public order issues compared to the more rural or less densely populated nearby areas.

For Ashbourne households, where public order crimes are 24% above the UK average, proactive security measures are essential, scOS's AI-powered boundary detection identifies threats at property perimeters before incidents occur, while DVLA vehicle verification flags suspicious vehicles near homes. Autonomous deterrence features, such as automated lighting and speakers, can disrupt potential intruders, aligning with Ashbourne's need to address rising public order concerns effectively.