Halesworth Crime Rate

Halesworth's crime rate of 60.0 per 1,000 residents is 34% below the UK average, but the area faces a sharp rise in bicycle theft—300% higher than last year. This stark increase, despite overall safety, highlights the need for targeted prevention strategies in a community otherwise marked by low crime and strong local ties.

Halesworth is a built-up area in East Suffolk, known for its historic charm and proximity to natural landscapes. As a small commuter hub, it balances rural tranquility with access to larger towns. The area's lower population density may contribute to lower overall crime rates, though localized factors like cycling infrastructure and community dynamics influence specific crime types, such as bicycle theft.

The most surprising finding is that bicycle theft in Halesworth is 102% above the UK average, with a 300% year-on-year increase. This stark rise may be linked to the area's growing cycling culture, limited secure parking, or increased foot traffic during events. Possession of weapons, 36% above UK average, could reflect local socioeconomic factors, though no specific data on demographics is available. Property crime overall is 48% below the UK average, with burglary, vehicle crime, and theft all significantly lower. This may stem from Halesworth's compact size, which reduces opportunities for large-scale property crime. Anti-social behaviour, though rising by 26% YoY, remains 39% below the UK average, likely due to the area's tight-knit community and lower population density.

Crime in Halesworth has increased by 28.1% year-on-year, with bicycle theft rising 300% YoY. This sharp increase may be linked to warmer months and increased cycling activity. Other crimes like burglary and possession of weapons have also risen. The peak in August 2025 (7.3 per 1,000/month) aligns with summer tourism and longer evenings, which may contribute to higher crime rates during this period.

How To Keep Safe in Halesworth

Given the 300% year-on-year increase in bicycle theft, always lock bikes to fixed objects and use high-security U-locks. Store bikes in sheds or garages when possible. For possession of weapons, which is 36% above the UK average, report suspicious behaviour to local authorities promptly. Community engagement through Neighbourhood Watch can also strengthen local safety networks. Avoid leaving valuables visible in vehicles, as vehicle crime spikes at night.

Crime in Halesworth exhibits distinct patterns by time of day. Vehicle crime peaks at night (12am-6am), likely due to isolated parking areas and reduced visibility. Burglary is most frequent in the evening (6pm-12am), aligning with periods when homes are unoccupied. Theft, including bicycle theft, spikes in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), possibly linked to retail activity and outdoor events. Other crimes, like anti-social behaviour, are more common in the morning (6am-12pm), which may reflect early commuter activity or local routines.

Halesworth's crime rate is 21% higher than Wenhaston's 49.4 per 1,000, but both areas maintain safety scores above the UK average. This contrast may stem from Wenhaston's lower population density and fewer commercial hubs, which could reduce opportunities for certain crimes like shoplifting.

For Halesworth households, securing bicycles is critical given the 102% above-average rate of bicycle theft, scOS's AI-powered perimeter detection can identify suspicious activity near bike storage, while DVLA vehicle verification helps flag stolen or cloned plates. Its multi-camera system learns local patterns to distinguish regular cyclists from potential offenders, reducing false alarms and improving deterrence.