Is Exeter Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Exeter has a location in Devon that is truly sweet; the city has an environment that includes rolling hills, and it’s also close to the stunning coastline, which means the city has something for everyone.

Surrounded by green spaces, you discover activities for all ages, inclinations, and abilities.

Exeter Quayside has something for everyone to enjoy, from independent boutiques to visiting the Custom House to exploring the quay’s fascinating history.

Then relax on the waterway, and perhaps enjoy a meal at one of the area’s wonderful eateries as you watch the world go by.

Warnings & Dangers in Exeter

OVERALL RISK: LOW

It's always wise to be cautious, so Exeter presents few problems, including occasional heavy rainfall leading to localized flooding, especially during winter. Be aware of your surroundings in busy areas to lower the odds of being pickpocketed. Stay up to the minute with local news and travel advisories. Respect traffic rules when driving. That left/right side of the road thing is essential. And be mindful of cultural nuances. Be aware, polite, kind, and everything else we were taught in kindergarten. It still works.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW

Be aware of any security concerns or disruptions if you're using public transportation. It's wise to stay vigilant. While taxis are generally considered a safe mode of transport, employing licensed and reputable services is crucial. Ensure that the taxi you choose adheres to local regulations.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW

Exeter has a relatively low pickpocket risk, but it's still wise to stay alert, especially in tourist spots, crowded areas, and public transit. Keep valuables secure, don't flash cash, and be cautious in overcrowded environments. Stay aware of your surroundings. Following common-sense precautions lowers the risk of pickpocketing.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

Natural disasters? Not really. It experiences occasional heavy rainfall and flooding, especially in winter, but the city isn't prone to earthquakes, hurricanes, or other significant geological events.

MUGGING RISK: LOW

Exeter experiences a relatively low mugging risk, but it's prudent to remain cautious, especially in dimly lit areas and at night. Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit shortcuts, and travel in groups when possible. Keep valuables secure, and don't flash cash. Practice basic safety and reduce the risk of mugging.

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Exeter faces a low terrorism risk but keeps informed about current events and adheres to local advisories. The UK has a robust security infrastructure, and authorities prioritize public safety. Remain alert in crowded places. While the overall risk is low, being aware and following recommended safety measures is always good.

SCAMS RISK: LOW

Like anywhere else, some scams to be aware of are cryptocurrency, HMRC, identity, investment, ticketing, payment in advance, and romance, among the many frauds regularly occurring. Romance? All right. Sad but understandable. But ticketing? Have these monsters no decency?

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW

Devon and Cornwall have the third-lowest crime rate out of the country's 42 police forces. "Victim-based crime has decreased by 0.6%, yet there was a 1% increase in recorded crime. However, the Office for National Statistics crime figures reported a 15.5% increase in sexual offenses for the South West force, which has also increased nationally, partly due to more media coverage relating to violence against women and girls.

TAP WATER RISK: LOW

Can You Drink Tap Water in Exeter? Yes, absolutely. The tap water is drinkable, according to Tap Safe, which bases its current findings on data from publicly available sources, including the WHO (World Health Organization), CDC (Center for Disease Control), and other databases.

Safest Places to Visit in Exeter

What’s the best area of Exeter?

An interesting question.

Exeter is a vibrant city with a rich history and fascinating attractions, including the award-winning Royal Albert Memorial Museum, the unique Underground Passages, a beautiful Cathedral, a cool Quayside, and an impressive Roman wall.

So, what are the “fashionable” and fun areas to visit in Exeter?

Visitors, guests, and locals will all agree that immersing themselves in the city’s rich history, vibrant culture, and lovely surroundings is a wonderful experience.

Explore the stunning Exeter Cathedral, delve into local history at the Royal Albert Memorial Museum, and stroll along the quayside for lovely waterfront views.

Embrace the culinary scene with a visit to local eateries.

Engage with the locals and attend cultural events to get a taste of Exeter’s vibe.

Take advantage of accessible public transportation to explore nearby attractions, including Dartmoor National Park.

Be weather-ready and flexible with plans, as the weather will be unpredictable.

(Yes, we can predict that!) Whether enjoying the lush greenery of Northernhay Gardens or attending events at Exeter Phoenix, visitors can create lasting memories by embracing the city’s diverse offerings and welcoming atmosphere.

Anyplace you visit will, by definition, be fantastic, by dint of appreciation.

Now, if you want to know some other trending, fun, fashionable areas in Exeter, consider:

• St Leonards.
• Topsham.
• Whimple.
• The Quay.

Places to Avoid in Exeter

The crime rate in Exeter is 2.6 crimes per annum per 1000 people.

Predictably, much of the crime in Exeter occurs in the city center.

Most crimes were reported in or near the shopping area near the High Street, the nightclub area around Little Castle and Bailey Street, and Sidwell Street.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Exeter

So... How Safe Is Exeter Really?

That is an excellent question.

They say context is everything, so let’s put the local crime statistics in context.

As of 2023, the crime rate in Exeter is 0.86% lower than in the South West and 26% lower than the overall figures for England, Wales & Northern Ireland.

Exeter is Devon’s most dangerous central town and is among the top 20 most hazardous out of Devon’s 403 towns, villages, and cities.

The overall crime rate in Exeter in 2022 was 61 crimes per 1,000 people.

This compares poorly to Devon’s overall crime rate, which is 32% higher than the Devon rate of 46 per 1,000 residents.

For England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, Exeter is among the top 10 safest important towns and the 2,548th most dangerous location out of all villages, towns, and cities.

Sadly, according to several news sources, the most common crimes in Exeter are violence and sexual offenses, with 3,512 offenses during 2022, giving a crime rate of 28.

This is 11% lower than 2021’s figure of 3,928 offenses Exeter’s least common crime is robbery, with 34 offenses recorded in 2022, a decrease of 45% of 62 crimes.

How Does Exeter Compare?

Useful Information

Visas

Check that your passport is going to be valid for your entire stay, and apply for the appropriate visa in advance. Check the specific visa requirements and processing times on the official UK government website, or consult the nearest UK embassy or consulate for accurate and up-to-date information. A standard visitor visa is required for most visitors to Exeter from non-European Union countries.

Currency

The official currency in Exeter, UK, is the British Pound Sterling. Ensure you have local currency for small transactions, and credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Currency exchange services are found at banks and exchange bureaus. ATMs are common and dispense pounds. Inform your bank about your travel dates to avoid any issues with card transactions, and be aware of current exchange rates to make informed financial decisions.

Weather

Exeter has a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. The weather is changeable, so check the forecast. Winters (December to February) are cool with temperatures ranging from 36°F to 46°F, while summers (June to August) are mild, averaging around 54°F to 70°F. What to Pack: Winter (December to February): Bring layers, including a warm coat, sweater, and a waterproof jacket. Plus, all the accessories to stay warm, including hats, gloves, and scarves. Summer (June to August): Pack light layers like T-shirts, shorts, jeans, and light dresses for the day, and a light jacket, sweater, or wrap for evenings and indoor events.

Airports

Exeter Airport (EXT) is approximately 6 miles east of the city center. The airport offers domestic flights and limited international services. Facilities include car rentals, cafes, and shops. For broader international travel, Bristol Airport and London airports, such as Heathrow or Gatwick, are other options, and there are straightforward transportation links connecting Exeter to these major airports.

Travel Insurance

Purchasing comprehensive travel insurance is a good idea for feeling confident and secure about your upcoming trip to Exeter. This is because travel insurance brings you that exceptional security founded on actuality. You'll want to be sure that the policy covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen belongings. Keep a copy of your insurance details, emergency contacts, and policy documents. Travel insurance protects you against unexpected circumstances, providing priceless peace of mind. Check policy specifics and consult your insurance provider to tailor coverage according to your needs and the activities you plan to undertake in Exeter.

Exeter Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Average High/Low Temperature

United Kingdom - Safety by City