The question of whether Hartley Wintney is safe to walk around at night is complex and requires examining available data. While the village enjoys a generally positive safety profile compared to the UK average, the specific rating for nighttime safety provides a cautionary note.
Hartley Wintney, classified as a Built-Up Area (BUA) within the Hart district, has a population of 3835. Its overall crime rate stands at 61.5 incidents per 1,000 residents, which is notably lower than the UK national average of 91.6 per 1,000. This suggests that, in terms of overall crime, Hartley Wintney is relatively safer than many other areas in the United Kingdom. The area also boasts a safety score of 85/100, again exceeding the UK average of 79.
However, a crucial element to consider is the 'Night Safety Score,' which is significantly lower at 10/100. This score specifically reflects residents’ perceptions and experiences of safety during nighttime hours. While the violent crime rate is 22.9 per 1,000, it’s the low night safety score that raises concerns regarding personal safety when walking alone after dark. This could be due to factors like limited street lighting, fewer people on the streets, or perceived vulnerability.
It’s important to remember that safety scores are subjective and based on a combination of reported crime and perceived risk. While the lower overall crime rate is encouraging, the low night safety score indicates that residents feel less secure after dark. Therefore, while Hartley Wintney isn’t inherently dangerous, exercising caution when walking alone at night is advisable. Consider sticking to well-lit and populated routes, and being particularly aware of your surroundings. Exploring alternative transportation options or walking with a companion can further enhance personal safety during nighttime hours.