Holyhead Crime Rate

Holyhead’s crime rate of 126.1 per 1,000 residents is 38.3% above the UK average, driven by disproportionately high violence and anti-social behaviour. Despite a 13.6% year-on-year decline in overall crime, the area remains notably less safe than the UK average, with shoplifting and anti-social behaviour persisting at elevated levels.

Holyhead is a historic seaside resort on the Isle of Anglesey, known for its bustling port and tourist attractions. Its mix of residential and commercial areas, combined with a transient population from tourism and seasonal work, likely contributes to higher anti-social behaviour and shoplifting rates. The area’s proximity to major transport routes may also explain elevated vehicle crime, though this has decreased recently.

The most surprising finding is the stark contrast between Holyhead’s property crime rate (30.1 per 1,000, 5.9% below the UK average) and its overall crime rate (126.1 per 1,000, 38.3% above the UK average). Violence and sexual offences (52.7 per 1,000) remain disproportionately high, likely linked to the area’s nightlife and transient population. Anti-social behaviour (26.7 per 1,000) may stem from crowded public spaces during peak tourist seasons. Shoplifting (10.1 per 1,000) is elevated due to the concentration of retail outlets. Notably, bicycle theft has surged by 400% YoY, possibly due to increased cycling among tourists or students.

Crime in Holyhead decreased by 13.6% year-on-year, with violence and sexual offences falling by 10% and anti-social behaviour by 6%. However, bicycle theft surged by 400% YoY, likely due to increased tourism. The most notable trend is the sharp rise in vehicle crime (+85% YoY), despite its rate remaining below the UK average. Seasonal patterns show a peak in July (15.1 per 1,000) and a dip in December (7.2 per 1,000), likely tied to tourism and holiday activity.

How To Keep Safe in Holyhead

Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas after dark, especially near the port. Use well-lit routes and report anti-social behaviour promptly. Secure vehicles with alarms and visible deterrents, as vehicle crime has risen sharply. For shops, ensure CCTV coverage and staff training to address shoplifting, which remains 33% above the UK average.

Crime in Holyhead peaks in the afternoon (12pm–6pm), with theft (49% of incidents) and burglary (11%) most common during this period, likely tied to retail activity and daytime foot traffic. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am–6am), with 23% of incidents occurring during these hours, possibly due to unattended cars in residential areas. Other crime (63% of night-time incidents) suggests opportunistic activity, while theft from the person is rare, reflecting the area’s lower density of high-risk zones.

Holyhead’s crime rate (126.1 per 1,000) is 13% higher than Trearddur’s (111.4 per 1,000), reflecting differences in population density and tourism activity. Trearddur’s lower rate may be due to its more rural character and smaller transient population.

For Holyhead’s crime profile, scOS’s proactive boundary detection and multi-camera monitoring are critical. With violence and anti-social behaviour above the UK average, real-time alerts can deter intruders. Vehicle crime, though lower than average, has risen by 85% YoY, making DVLA vehicle registration checks essential for unattended cars. scOS’s behavioural pattern learning reduces false alarms, ensuring security systems focus on genuine threats.