Hadlow Crime Rate

Hadlow is a very safe urban settlement, recording an overall crime rate of 49.4 per 1,000 people. This is significantly lower than the UK national average of 91.6, contributing to its high safety score of 87/100. Recent data from January to December 2025 indicates that crime is on an increasing trend, with a 9.9% rise year-over-year. Property crime in Hadlow is particularly low at 12.5 per 1,000, well below the national average of 32.2. For the 3,360 residents, these statistics confirm that Hadlow remains one of the more secure villages in Kent, though the recent increase in reported incidents suggests that maintaining this high standard requires continued community awareness and proactive security.

Hadlow's crime landscape is heavily dominated by violence and sexual offences, which account for 49.4% of all reported incidents (82 crimes). Criminal damage and arson and anti-social behaviour are the next most frequent, both at 11.4%. When looking at property crime as a whole—including burglary, theft, vehicle crime, and shoplifting—Hadlow has a rate of 12.5 per 1,000 residents. This is exceptionally low compared to the UK average of 32.2. Within the property crime category, 'other theft' is the most common at 8.4%, with vehicle crime at 4.2%. For residents and homeowners, these figures indicate a very safe environment where property crime is much less of a concern than in most other urban areas. However, the high proportion of violent crime suggests that personal safety awareness remains important, even in a low-volume crime environment.

Crime in Hadlow is currently on an upward trend, with a 9.9% increase in total offences over the last year. Detailed monthly data for 2025 shows a volatile pattern; the crime rate peaked in March at 6.9 per 1,000 people, with other significant peaks in January (6.9) and October (4.8). The lowest rates were recorded in February, April, and August, all at 2.7 per 1,000. While the percentage increase seems high, it is important to note that it comes from a very low baseline of criminal activity. However, the fluctuations throughout the year, especially the peaks in the winter and spring months, suggest that residents should remain vigilant and consider enhancing their home security to counteract this trend.

How To Keep Safe in Hadlow

Violence and sexual offences are the most common crimes in Hadlow, accounting for nearly half of all reports. To stay safe, residents should be mindful when walking in less populated areas, particularly during the evening. Stick to well-lit main thoroughfares and avoid shortcuts through unlit paths or wooded areas after dark.

Criminal damage and anti-social behaviour are the next most common issues, often reported in the evenings. Staying connected with local community groups can help in addressing these concerns effectively. Property crime is another area for vigilance; with 'other theft' being the most common property-related issue, ensure that personal items are not left unattended in public spaces. Vehicle crime is a particular risk at night, when it accounts for 38% of all incidents. Always ensure your vehicle is locked, parked in a well-lit driveway or garage, and that no valuables are left inside. During the afternoon, when theft rates are higher (58% of incidents), double-check that all ground-floor windows and doors are secure, even if you are at home, as opportunistic thieves often look for easy entry points during these hours.

Hadlow's crime patterns show distinct shifts in risk throughout the day. During the morning (6am-12pm), theft-related offences are a primary concern, accounting for 49% of reports as local retail and commercial activity begins. This trend peaks in the afternoon (12pm-6pm), where theft-related offences rise to 58% of all incidents. The evening hours (6pm-12am) see a significant change, with 'other' crimes, including anti-social behaviour and criminal damage, dominating the statistics at 61%. At night (12am-6am), while the total number of crimes is lower, the risk to vehicles increases dramatically, with vehicle crime making up 38% of all reports during these hours. These patterns suggest that property and retail security are most critical during the day, while vehicle protection is the priority overnight.

In comparison to nearby areas, Hadlow's crime rate of 49.4 per 1,000 people highlights it as a secure urban choice. It is safer than East Peckham, which has a higher rate of 62.3. While it is more active than rural areas like Pittswood, Golden Green, and Hale Street, Hadlow offers a balanced urban environment with a safety record that far outperforms the national average. For those seeking a safe, community-focused village in Kent, Hadlow remains a top-tier choice for residential safety, despite the recent upward trend in reported crime.

With a property crime rate of 12.5 per 1,000, Hadlow is a very safe area. However, the prevalence of theft and criminal damage suggests that even in low-crime areas, opportunistic incidents can occur. Traditional security systems, such as standard CCTV or doorbell cameras, are reactive—they simply record an event as it happens. For homeowners in Hadlow who want to maintain their high level of safety, scOS offers a proactive alternative. This AI-powered operating system uses multi-camera intelligence to monitor your property's boundaries in real-time. Instead of just sending a notification after a visitor has reached your door, scOS can distinguish between a known family member and a potential threat. When a threat is detected, the system can autonomously trigger deterrents like lighting and speakers, stopping a burglar before they even attempt entry. In an area where vehicle crime spikes at night—accounting for 38% of night-time incidents—having an AI system that provides active deterrence is the most effective way to ensure your home remains a hard target.