Holyhead Crime Rate

Holyhead's crime rate of 124.6 per 1,000 residents is 37% above the UK average, yet the area has seen a 16.8% decrease in overall crime year-on-year. The most striking development is the 200% YoY surge in bicycle theft, a sharp contrast to the decline in other categories. This mixed trend highlights both progress in addressing certain crimes and emerging challenges, particularly for an area defined by its coastal tourism and commuter traffic.

Holyhead is a coastal resort town on the Isle of Anglesey, known for its historic port and tourist attractions. As a built-up area with a mix of residential and commercial zones, it experiences crime patterns influenced by seasonal tourism, retail activity, and commuter traffic. The proximity to waterways and the presence of public spaces may contribute to anti-social behaviour and vehicle crime, while the town's role as a transport hub could explain elevated shoplifting rates.

The most surprising finding is the 80% exceedance in anti-social behaviour, which is 26.4 per 1,000 compared to the UK average of 14.7. This likely stems from the town's public spaces and transient population linked to tourism. Violence and sexual offences, at 52.3 per 1,000 (63% above UK average), may be tied to late-night activity in the town centre. Shoplifting, at 10.6 per 1,000 (42% above UK average), aligns with retail density and tourist footfall. Vehicle crime is 50% below UK average, possibly due to limited commuter parking or effective policing in key areas.

Holyhead's crime rate has decreased by 16.8% year-on-year, with notable declines in violence (-12%), anti-social behaviour (-10%), and shoplifting (-15%). However, bicycle theft has surged by 200% YoY, likely due to increased tourism and cycling infrastructure. The peak in July 2025 (15.1 per 1,000/month) aligns with summer tourism, while December saw a low of 7.2 per 1,000/month, possibly due to fewer visitors. This mixed trend reflects both successful crime reduction strategies and emerging challenges in specific areas.

How To Keep Safe in Holyhead

Residents should focus on mitigating anti-social behaviour, which is 80% above the UK average. Avoid prolonged stays in public spaces after 10pm, when such incidents peak. For bicycle theft (up 200% YoY), secure bikes with locks in designated parking areas. During the afternoon (12pm-6pm), when shoplifting is common, avoid carrying valuables in visible pockets. Report disturbances promptly to local authorities to help address patterns of anti-social behaviour.

Crime in Holyhead follows distinct time-of-day patterns. Theft peaks in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), likely tied to retail activity and tourist shopping. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am-6am), possibly due to unsecured parking in residential areas. Anti-social behaviour is most common in the evening (6pm-12am), reflecting social activity in the town centre. Other crimes, such as burglary, are more prevalent at night, aligning with opportunistic activity in low-traffic areas.

Holyhead's crime rate of 124.6 per 1,000 is 15% higher than nearby Trearddur's 108.5 per 1,000. This difference may stem from Holyhead's larger tourist footprint and denser built-up areas, which could contribute to higher rates of anti-social behaviour and shoplifting. Trearddur, being a smaller, more rural area, may experience fewer opportunities for certain crimes.

For residents in Holyhead, where anti-social behaviour is 80% above the UK average, proactive security solutions are essential, scOS offers AI-driven boundary monitoring that distinguishes between everyday activity and concerning behaviour, triggering automated lights and speakers to deter disturbances. Its cloud storage of two weeks' footage supports evidence collection for local authorities. Tailored configurations by an scOS Architect ensure the system aligns with Holyhead's specific challenges, such as managing anti-social behaviour in public spaces.