Royal Tunbridge Wells Crime Rate February 2026 | Monthly Statistics

Royal Tunbridge Wells recorded a crime rate of 6.3 per 1,000 residents in February 2026, marking a 1.6% decrease compared to the UK average of 6.4 per 1,000. This figure places the area in a slightly safer position nationally, though the local crime profile remains distinct in its composition. Violence and sexual offences accounted for 30.5% of all crimes reported, making them the most prevalent category, followed by anti-social behaviour (20.5%) and shoplifting (14.8%). These patterns are consistent with the area’s built-up character, where high streets and community hubs may contribute to higher rates of anti-social behaviour and retail-related offences. The seasonal context of February—a winter month with reduced outdoor activity—may have played a role in shaping these figures, though the exact influence of weather and local rhythms on crime remains difficult to quantify. Violent crime rates have seen a marked decline compared to the previous month, a trend that may be linked to the pre-spring lull in activity or the area’s suburban nature, which differs from more densely populated urban centres. Meanwhile, shoplifting and anti-social behaviour remain areas of concern, with both categories significantly above the UK average. These findings suggest a combination of local factors and broader national trends, requiring further analysis to fully understand the drivers behind the area’s crime patterns.

February 2026 saw a significant 29.9% reduction in violence and sexual offences, the most common crime category, which fell from 144 to 101. This decline may be partly explained by the low outdoor activity typical of winter months. Meanwhile, theft from the person and robbery both saw sharp increases, rising by 200% and 100% respectively, suggesting a potential shift in criminal focus during the month. Anti-social behaviour and shoplifting rates were above the UK average, with anti-social behaviour 43% higher than the national figure. These trends highlight the complexity of crime patterns in a built-up area where retail and community spaces may attract different types of activity. For residents, the 12 crimes reported daily offer a tangible measure of local risk, though the overall rate remains below the UK average. The stark contrast between decreases in violent crime and increases in property-related offences illustrates the shifting dynamics that can occur within a single month.

Royal Tunbridge Wells' crime rate in February 2026 dropped by 10.7% compared to the previous month, falling from 7.0 to 6.3 per 1,000 residents. This decline aligns with the typical seasonal pattern observed in similar areas during winter, when outdoor activity and public gatherings decrease. On a daily basis, the area experienced an average of 12 crimes per day in February, a figure that reflects the local rhythm of a built-up area with a mix of residential and commercial zones. Over the course of the month, one reported crime occurred for roughly every 160 residents, a rate that underscores the relatively low exposure to crime in this part of the UK. When compared to the UK average, the area's crime rate remains 1.6% below the national figure, a consistent trend that may be influenced by the area’s suburban character and lower population density relative to larger urban centres. This context provides residents with a clearer picture of how their local crime experience compares to broader national patterns, offering reassurance that the area continues to perform slightly better than the average in terms of public safety.