Lewes Crime Rate

Lewes offers a high standard of safety, with an overall crime rate of 68.9 per 1,000 people per year. This is considerably lower than the UK national average of 93.1, resulting in a safety score of 84/100, which is well above the UK average of 78. The crime trend in the area is currently stable, showing a negligible increase of only 0.3% year-over-year. These figures reflect a district that is consistently safer than many of its urban counterparts, providing a secure environment for its diverse population across its market towns and rural villages. Detailed analysis of local crime types and trends follows to help you understand the specific safety profile of the Lewes area.

Lewes is a unique Local Authority District in East Sussex, characterised by its historic market town, the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park, and a stretch of the southern coast. This mix of rural, suburban, and coastal environments influences its crime profile. The area is a significant draw for tourism, particularly during the famous Bonfire Night celebrations, which can lead to transient population spikes. While Lewes is largely residential and affluent, its proximity to Brighton and Hove means it shares some regional transport links and economic pressures. The local economy is supported by a mix of independent retail, professional services, and agriculture. These factors contribute to a generally safe and stable environment, though seasonal visitors and commercial activity in the town centres naturally impact the reported crime statistics.

Crime in Lewes is dominated by violence and sexual offences, which account for 36.2% of all reports, or 25.0 per 1,000 residents. Anti-social behaviour is the second most common issue (19.1%), followed by shoplifting (8.6%). Property crime, which includes burglary, vehicle crime, and various theft categories, occurs at a total rate of 20.3 per 1,000 people. This is well below the UK average of 32.9, suggesting that Lewes is a relatively secure location for property owners. Within the property crime category, shoplifting and criminal damage are more prevalent than burglary or vehicle theft. For residents, this means that while the risk of a break-in is statistically low (1.7 per 1,000), basic security measures and vigilance in commercial areas remain important to maintain the district's high safety standards.

The crime trend in Lewes is remarkably stable, with a mere 0.3% change year-over-year. Monthly data reveals a consistent baseline, with rates typically hovering between 4.5 and 5.5 per 1,000 residents during the winter months. There was a noticeable increase during the spring and summer of 2025, with peaks of 6.9 in May and July. This seasonal rise is a common pattern in coastal and tourist-heavy districts as footfall increases. By September and October 2025, the rate had settled back to 5.5. For residents, this predictability is a positive sign, indicating that the local authority and police have a steady handle on crime levels without any emerging spikes in serious offences.

In the local regional context, Lewes's crime rate of 68.9 per 1,000 residents is notable when compared to its neighbours. Nearby areas such as Brighton and Hove, Wealden, Eastbourne, Adur, Mid Sussex, and Worthing all reported a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000 in this specific dataset. While this suggests these neighbouring areas have exceptionally low levels of reported crime, Lewes itself remains a very safe choice compared to national averages. For anyone looking to move to or invest in the East Sussex area, Lewes provides a secure and stable environment that compares favourably with the majority of the UK.

Lewes is home to many valuable properties, and while the burglary rate is low at 1.7 per 1,000, property crime overall sits at 20.3 per 1,000. For homeowners in this area, traditional reactive security—like standard CCTV—may feel insufficient. These systems often only provide footage after a crime has been committed. A more effective solution is proactive protection. scOS is an AI-powered home security operating system designed to prevent crime before it happens. By monitoring all your cameras simultaneously with boundary-detection intelligence, scOS can identify a potential intruder before they even reach your door. For the historic and often secluded properties found in the Lewes district, this autonomous response—where the system can engage lights or speakers to destroy the element of surprise—is a powerful deterrent. Choosing proactive AI protection means you aren't just recording a potential burglary; you are stopping it.

How To Keep Safe in Lewes

Violence and sexual offences are the most frequently reported crimes in the Lewes district. To stay safe in this varied area, consider these regional safety tips:

1. Be Mindful in Crowds: During major local events or in busy town centres, remain aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure to avoid opportunistic theft.
2. Safe Navigation: When walking at night, stick to well-lit main roads and familiar routes. If you are visiting coastal areas or the South Downs, ensure someone knows your expected return time.
3. Home Lighting: Use dusk-to-dawn lighting or smart timers on your property. A well-lit exterior is one of the simplest ways to deter anti-social behaviour and opportunistic property crime.
4. Vehicle Vigilance: Even in low-crime areas, always double-check that your vehicle is locked and that no bags or electronics are visible through the windows.
5. Community Connection: Engage with local community safety groups or social media pages to stay informed about any specific trends or issues in your immediate neighbourhood.