Godalming Crime Rate

Godalming's crime profile reveals a striking contrast: while the area's overall rate is 45.8% below the UK average, possession of weapons has surged 500% YoY — a sharp anomaly. This built-up area, home to 11,597 residents, balances low overall crime with specific spikes that warrant closer examination. The data suggests a generally safe environment, but targeted attention to weapon-related incidents may be necessary.

Godalming is a commuter town within the Waverley local authority, known for its historic buildings, retail centres, and proximity to Surrey's countryside. Its mixed residential and commercial character influences crime patterns: retail hubs may contribute to shoplifting, while commuter parking areas could explain vehicle crime trends. The area's strong sense of community and economic stability likely contribute to its consistently low crime rates compared to the UK average.

Godalming's most surprising finding is the 500% year-on-year increase in possession of weapons, despite overall rates being 45.8% below the UK average. This sharp rise may reflect unexplained local factors, though the area's low crime profile suggests limited connection to broader violence trends. Shoplifting remains the third-most common crime, rising 12% YoY but still 34% below the UK average — likely linked to its retail centres. Anti-social behaviour (down 18% YoY) and violence (down 7.5% YoY) are both below UK averages, possibly due to community cohesion. Vehicle crime, up 18% YoY, may reflect increased commuter parking activity. Burglary is 61% below the UK average, suggesting effective property security measures in residential areas.

Godalming's crime rate remained stable (-2.1% YoY) over the past year, but specific categories show stark contrasts. Possession of weapons surged 500% YoY — a sharp anomaly in an otherwise low-crime area. This spike may reflect unexplained local factors, though the area's overall safety remains strong. Other crimes like theft from the person (up 75% YoY) and other theft (up 42% YoY) rose but remain below UK averages. The May 2025 peak (8.0 per 1,000/month) likely reflects seasonal activity, with longer evenings and increased foot traffic in retail areas contributing to temporary spikes.

How To Keep Safe in Godalming

Godalming's low crime rate means most residents need only basic precautions. For vehicle crime, park in well-lit areas with CCTV coverage, as rates are rising 18% YoY. To address the sharp 500% increase in weapon possession, report suspicious behaviour to police promptly. Theft from the person has risen 75% YoY — avoid carrying valuables in public. For shoplifting concerns, retail areas may benefit from visible security measures. Overall, Godalming's safety score of 89/100 means targeted steps, not drastic changes, are needed to maintain the area's strong profile.

Crime in Godalming peaks during afternoon hours (12pm-6pm), with theft accounting for 57% of incidents, likely linked to retail activity. Vehicle crime spikes at night (12am-6am), reaching 37% of daily incidents, possibly due to parked vehicles in residential areas. Evening hours (6pm-12am) see a 14% share of vehicle crime, potentially tied to nightlife activity. Theft remains high in the afternoon, while other crimes like burglary are most common in the evening. The area's low overall rates suggest that even when crimes occur, they are often opportunistic rather than targeted.

Compared to Farncombe (42.2 per 1,000), Godalming has a 17% higher crime rate, likely due to its larger retail and commuter hubs. Farncombe's lower rate may reflect its more rural character and fewer commercial spaces. Both areas are significantly safer than the UK average, but Godalming's proximity to Surrey's urban centres likely contributes to its slightly higher rates.

In Godalming's low-crime environment, proactive measures can reinforce existing safety. For instance, vehicle crime is rising 18% YoY — consider secure parking solutions or visible deterrents like lights. The area's 18.3 per 1,000 property crime rate, 42.7% below the UK average, suggests that basic security (like locking windows) is sufficient for most homes. For those seeking additional reassurance, AI-powered systems like scOS can monitor perimeters and detect threats before they escalate, aligning with the area's emphasis on maintaining its already high safety standards.