Barnstaple Crime Rate July 2025 | Monthly Statistics

For a town of 29,465 residents, 331 crimes reported in July 2025 translates to 11.2 crimes per 1,000 people—30.2% higher than the UK average of 8.6. This rate reflects a pattern seen in coastal towns with seasonal fluctuations, where summer tourism and festivals may amplify certain crime types. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 31.7% of all incidents (105 cases), followed by anti-social behaviour (19.0%, 63 cases) and shoplifting (14.5%, 48 cases). The town’s position as a tourist hub in North Devon likely contributes to the sharp rise in shoplifting, which is 146% above the UK average. Anti-social behaviour, too, exceeds the national rate by 35%, potentially linked to the increased foot traffic and events typical of the summer season. While violent crime rates remain elevated, they decreased by 28.6% from June, reflecting the seasonal timing of festivals and events that might disperse crowds or alter patterns of interaction. The contrast between Barnstaple’s crime profile and the UK average underscores the influence of local demographics and geography, with tourism acting as a key driver of specific offence types.

July saw stark month-on-month changes, with possession of weapons surging by 800% (1 to 9 cases), a jump likely tied to increased public gatherings during festivals. Vehicle crime also rose sharply by 300% (2 to 8 cases), potentially linked to summer events that bring more vehicles into the town centre. Bicycle theft doubled to 4 cases, possibly reflecting the influx of tourists and visitors. In contrast, burglary fell by 53.8% (13 to 6 cases), a decline that may align with seasonal patterns where homes are vacated for holidays. Violent crime also dropped by 28.6% from June, though it remains 18% above the UK average. Shoplifting rates were 146% higher than the UK average, a figure that could concern local retailers preparing for the summer tourism peak. The town’s anti-social behaviour rate was 35% above the UK average, a statistic that may prompt local authorities to consider additional policing during high-traffic periods.

Barnstaple’s crime rate in July (11.2 per 1,000) was 0.4% lower than the previous month’s rate of 11.3, indicating a stable trend despite the sharp increases in specific crime types. On a daily basis, the town experienced approximately 11 crimes per day, a figure that, while manageable, highlights the need for vigilance during peak tourist times. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 89 residents, a monthly exposure rate that, while not extreme, underscores the frequency of incidents in a relatively small population. Compared to the UK average, Barnstaple’s crime rate is higher, with anti-social behaviour and shoplifting far exceeding national levels. This contrast may reflect the town’s unique characteristics as a coastal destination, where transient populations and seasonal events create conditions for certain crimes to flourish. For residents, the 1-in-89 monthly exposure figure serves as a reminder of the importance of community awareness and local policing initiatives in mitigating risks during busy periods.