The question of whether the White Cliffs of Dover are safe at night is a common one, and understanding the local crime statistics can help inform your decision. The Local Authority District (LAD) of Dover has a population of 119,768 people. When considering safety, it’s helpful to compare local figures to national averages. Dover’s crime rate stands at 91.4 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is remarkably close to the UK average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that the area's overall crime levels aren’t significantly higher or lower than the rest of the country.
However, a deeper look at the specifics is important. The violent crime rate in Dover is 38.0 per 1,000 residents. While this isn’t drastically different from some areas, it's a factor to consider, especially when visiting at night. Dover’s safety score is 78 out of 100, slightly below the UK average of 79. This score reflects a combination of factors, including crime rates, perceptions of safety, and other local conditions.
It's crucial to understand that these figures represent overall crime statistics for the LAD of Dover, which includes areas beyond just the White Cliffs themselves. While the cliffs themselves are a popular tourist destination, the surrounding areas contribute to the overall statistics. At night, visibility is reduced, and fewer people are around, which can potentially increase the risk of incidents. Therefore, while the overall crime rate isn't alarming, it's always wise to be vigilant, regardless of the time of day. Always be aware of your surroundings, stick to well-lit paths, and avoid venturing into isolated areas alone after dark. Reporting any suspicious activity to the authorities is also a sensible precaution.