Ludlow Crime Rate

Ludlow's most striking crime statistic is its 99% above-average rate of criminal damage and arson (13.1 per 1,000 vs 6.6 UK average). Despite this, the area maintains a safety score of 80/100, 1 point above the UK average. Crime overall is stable at 88.5 per 1,000, 2.8% below the UK average, with robbery surging by 150% YoY but remaining below national levels.

Ludlow is a historic market town in Shropshire, known for its medieval architecture and proximity to the Welsh border. Its mix of residential, retail, and tourist areas creates a unique crime profile. The town's compact layout and high foot traffic may contribute to anti-social behaviour, while its heritage buildings could explain elevated criminal damage rates. Economic factors, such as seasonal tourism, also influence patterns.

Ludlow's most surprising finding is the 99% above-average rate of criminal damage and arson (13.1 vs 6.6 per 1,000), nearly double the UK average. This may stem from the town's historic buildings, which are vulnerable to vandalism. Burglary, 22% above average (4.0 vs 3.3 per 1,000), likely reflects its compact residential areas and limited street lighting. Anti-social behaviour, 19% above UK average, may correlate with the town's tourist season and market activity. Shoplifting has fallen by 24% YoY but remains 21% above the UK average, suggesting ongoing retail security challenges.

Crime in Ludlow has remained stable by 1.6% YoY, with a notable 150% surge in robbery (from 0.9 to 1.7 per 1,000). This sharp increase may be linked to specific incidents or seasonal factors during the 2025-2026 period. Shoplifting has declined by 24% YoY but remains 21% above the UK average, while criminal damage and arson have risen by 62% YoY. These trends contrast with falling rates for public order (34% YoY) and drugs (9.1% YoY). Monthly crime peaks in February (10.0 per 1,000/month), possibly influenced by post-Christmas retail activity and university term patterns.

How To Keep Safe in Ludlow

For residents concerned about burglary (4.0 per 1,000, 22% above UK average), secure historic buildings with motion-sensor lighting and consider community watch initiatives. To address anti-social behaviour (17.5 per 1,000, 19% above UK average), engage with local authorities during market seasons. For criminal damage and arson, ensure property boundaries are clearly marked and install perimeter sensors. Avoid leaving valuables in vehicles during evening hours, as vehicle crime peaks between 11pm and 5am. Regularly update home security systems to counteract rising robbery rates (1.7 per 1,000, 22% below UK average).

Crime in Ludlow follows distinct patterns: theft peaks in the afternoon (31% of cases), aligning with retail hours and tourist activity. Burglary spikes at night (22% of cases), likely linked to unoccupied homes during evening hours. Vehicle crime rises between 11pm and 5am, possibly due to parked cars in poorly lit areas. Other crimes dominate late at night, reflecting isolated incidents in less monitored zones. These patterns suggest targeted prevention efforts during peak times.

Ludlow's crime rate of 88.5 per 1,000 is 2.8% below the UK average, making it one of the safer areas in England. Its property crime rate (33.5 per 1,000) is 5.1% above the UK average, reflecting challenges with shoplifting and burglary. This suggests a balance between overall safety and specific vulnerabilities in retail and residential sectors.

For Ludlow households facing elevated criminal damage and arson risks (13.1 per 1,000, 99% above UK average), proactive security measures are vital, scOS's AI-powered boundary detection identifies threats at the property perimeter before damage occurs, distinguishing between harmless wildlife and intentional vandalism. Automated lights and speakers activate instantly when suspicious activity is detected, deterring intruders without requiring resident intervention. Ethernet-connected cameras ensure evidence integrity, while behavioural pattern learning reduces false alarms from legitimate visitors. These features directly address Ludlow's specific vulnerability to targeted damage.