United Kingdom : Safety by City
- Aberdeen
- Bath
- Belfast
- Birmingham
- Bradford
- Brighton
- Bristol
- Cambridge
- Canterbury
- Cardiff
- Coventry
- Dundee
- Edinburgh
- Exeter
- Glasgow
- Inverness
- Leeds
- Leicester
- Liverpool
- London
- Manchester
- Newcastle upon Tyne
- Northern Ireland
- Nottingham
- Oxford
- Peterborough
- Salford
- Scotland
- Sheffield
- Southampton
- Surrey
- York
Even though it’s not its capital, Glasgow is the biggest city in Scotland.
It’s so rich in culture that it recently received many honorable awards: the European title of the City of Culture, City of Architecture and Design, and Capital of Sport.
It’s also the second Scottish city to join the UNESCO Creative Cities initiative.
Glasgow was once a powerful center of industrial Britain but in time, it transformed itself into commercial, tourist and cultural center.
Not to mention that it’s one of the most visited cities in the British Isles, offering a mixture of nature, history, culture and the best shopping outside of London – bar none.
Warnings & Dangers in Glasgow
OVERALL RISK: LOW
Glasgow is a very safe city, especially for tourists. The most dangerous threats here are the petty thefts and the possible danger of a terrorist attack. Apart from that, you're pretty safe here.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
Transportation and taxis are generally safe and reliable in Glasgow, though you could get scammed by a taxi driver, or there can be some pickpockets on the subway, stations and other forms of public transport. Taxis are usually your safest bet.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: LOW
Even the petty crime in this city is of a lower level. That still doesn't mean that you shouldn't take precautions when in public places and take care of your belongings. If you do, the chances of someone stealing your valuables will be minimized.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
Flooding is the most prominent natural disaster that could hit Glasgow. It happened many times so far, more recently in 1998 and 2002.
MUGGING RISK: LOW
There are low chances of getting mugged or kidnapped in this city, although it is advised to remain cautious and avoid poorly lit and deserted streets and areas. If you find yourself in such a situation, hand over your belongings immediately.
TERRORISM RISK: HIGH
Since the UK has been targeted by terrorists numerous times, there is a reason to believe that this city can be targeted again. This is why it is important to remain aware of your surroundings at all times and report any suspicious activity.
SCAMS RISK: LOW
As in any city, especially a top tourist destination, there is risk of getting scammed. Be wary of people trying to distract you or offering you unwanted help, check your change twice and always negotiate every service beforehand.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW
Glasgow is very safe to travel to, if you are a female traveling solo. Apart from a few general precaution rules you should apply, such as not walking alone in poorly lit and deserted areas, not finding yourself in strange company at night, etc, you can relax because Glasgow is very safe in this respect.
So... How Safe Is Glasgow Really?
Glasgow, like the rest of Scotland, is very safe.
It’s very much like any other big city: it has safe areas and less safe areas, and the same reasoning applies – don’t do here what you wouldn’t do in your city.
The center of Glasgow is the safest and tourists can travel safely almost anywhere and visit all the landmarks and tourist sites without any fear of getting mugged or even stolen from.
All of the city centers and tourist areas are well policed – probably because Scotland is a possible target for terrorist attacks.
The only more danger is the fact that Scotland is a part of the United Kingdom, and as such – a target for terrorist attacks that have been happening often in the last couple of years.
Crime in the city center usually happens because of drunk people – the usual hotspots are at the southern end of Hope Street next to Central Station, and under the ‘Heilanman’s Umbrella’, the railway bridge over Argyle Street
Another thing to remember is that – if you buy any piece of Celtic or Rangers-related clothing – never wear it in public, especially in pubs or clubs, because it can cause trouble – particularly in the evenings.
How Does Glasgow Compare?
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Glasgow | 55 |
| London | 68 |
| Northern Ireland | 56 |
| Belfast | 56 |
| Edinburgh | 70 |
| Scotland | 71 |
| Liverpool | 56 |
| Belize City (Belize) | 37 |
| La Paz (Bolivia) | 52 |
| Sao Paulo (Brazil) | 45 |
| Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) | 43 |
| Sofia (Bulgaria) | 73 |
| Siem Reap (Cambodia) | 63 |
Useful Information
Visas
If you're from one of the EU countries, you don't need a visa to enter Glasgow. All you need is a passport valid for at least three months from the date of your departure. If you're not from the EU, you might need a visa. It depends on how long you are planning to stay and why you are visiting.
Currency
The British pound is the official currency in Glasgow. You can find ATMs at every airport, most train stations and on every other street corner in all towns and cities. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the city.
Weather
The weather in Glasgow belongs to a temperate and oceanic climate, but it isn't extreme. It does change swiftly though, in a matter of hours, and a bright morning can have a cold, wet and windy ending. Pack extra warm and rainproof clothing, regardless of the time of year.
Airports
Glasgow Airport often referred to as Glasgow International Airport is the busiest international airport in Scotland. Located in Paisley, Renfrewshire, it is situated around 1 km from Glasgow city center.
Travel Insurance
Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Glasgow, since it covers not only medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.
Glasgow Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C | 5 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 17 | 19 | 18 | 16 | 13 | 9 | 6 |
| Low °C | 1 | 1 | 2 | 3 | 6 | 9 | 11 | 11 | 9 | 7 | 3 | 2 |
| High °F | 41 | 43 | 48 | 54 | 59 | 63 | 66 | 64 | 61 | 55 | 48 | 43 |
| Low °F | 34 | 34 | 36 | 37 | 43 | 48 | 52 | 52 | 48 | 45 | 37 | 36 |
United Kingdom - Safety by City
| City | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Aberdeen | 63 |
| Bath | 81 |
| Belfast | 56 |
| Birmingham | 44 |
| Bradford | 42 |
| Brighton | 67 |
| Bristol | 58 |
| Cambridge | 78 |
| Canterbury | 79 |
| Cardiff | 64 |
| Coventry | 41 |
| Dundee | 60 |
| Edinburgh | 70 |
| Exeter | 77 |
| Glasgow | 55 |
| Inverness | 73 |
| Leeds | 56 |
| Leicester | 43 |
| Liverpool | 56 |
| London | 68 |
| Manchester | 44 |
| Newcastle upon Tyne | 72 |
| Northern Ireland | 56 |
| Nottingham | 56 |
| Oxford | 66 |
| Peterborough | 70 |
| Salford | 43 |
| Scotland | 71 |
| Sheffield | 74 |
| Southampton | 65 |
| Surrey | 77 |
| York | 83 |
Review from someone who lived here his entire life.
As someone who literally lives here for his entire life, risks of terrorism is so low you might as well just don’t even consider it. The part about Celtic and Rangers is correct btw – so do be cautious. However, don’t worry if you walk into a Rangers fan while wearing a green shirt or whatever, it’s not that extreme. Other than that, stay out of dim lit areas and crap and you should be fine and have a pleasant holiday here. As of Friday, 26 June 2020, it is boiling over here (29 degrees celsius earlier, it is currently 19 degrees celsius now), but do bring raincoats as the weather can literally turn tables rather quickly (it is set to rain in a day or 2).
Glasgow
I have lived in Scotland all of my 34 years. I have also worked in the bars and clubs in Glasgow.
Glasgow is a very safe place, we are very friendly if you need directions just ask, we will probably show you the way 👍.
As far a places to avoid at night I would Avoid Glasgow central station as it can be a bit rough on a Saturday night.
If you want to have a nice cocktail, there are lots of nice bars and restaurants are in Merchant City.
sauchiehall street Is where a lot of clubs are especially if your a student.
Glaswegians as very Friendly, warm and funny. Wee bit of advice, if we slag (take the piss) out of you it’s because we like you.
Avoid taking about rangers or Celtic it’s not as bad as it was but it can stir up trouble.
But yeah enjoy and have fun and again if you are lost or need help finding something just ask we don’t bite.
Sadly Glasgow is an utter dump. Full of Weegie scum who think they are hilarious but are actually undereducated alchoholic. The bars are dodgy except for the excellent 3 Judges on Dumbarton Road in the West End. Never ever venture South of the river as it will result in instant death and mugging.
Hahaha
Friendly Glasgow.
Obviously an Edinbuger. Someone who likes overpriced drinks.
You are 100% safe in Glasgow unless you say Ken every 2nd word.
Glasgow's miles better!
Bongo has an unusual but also very clear social problem? Why would anyone criticise with such venom? Quite extraordinary.
It’s a fact that Glasgow is one of the friendliest – if not *the* friendliest – cities in the world. What a petty remark Bongo makes re the Glaswegian sense of humour? Every city in the world has its own sense of what’s witty and what’s not witty; Glasgow is no different. I know many people from all parts of the city and all share a welcome for travellers, without exception. I am personally from the east-end of Glasgow, and was raised in the Gallowgate area during the time of the older style tenement housing. This period in Glasgow’s history seemed to bond neighbour with neighbour, stranger with stranger and stranger with overseas stranger; we found an escape from hardship in the lives and stories of others – this is the heart of our city.
It’s true what is said of all nationalities: some find the bad in people where many find the good. We in Glasgow like to think we find the good.
Recommended city for a weekend break, clean, and the people are very friendly. Only 30 mins from the airport which is quite small but efficient. Good transport links, however public transport does not run 24 hours, so would recommend taking a taxi.
Park benches matter
Glasgow can be great fun but they have 2 rubbish soccer teams. When one team wins a game their supporters smash up park benches, the other team tend to not win many games. A local delicacy is ” electric soup” which can be ordered from most East end taverns. Glasgowiens speak with a methanol infected accent but they can be quite funny. Best to avoid the big shops as they are crowded with shoplifters.
I don’t think it’s very good to comment on people’s accents because it doesn’t affect the overall safety of the country, but I respect your opinion. I have lived in Scotland all my life in a smaller village but I go there quite often. I have never felt too unsafe but some parts can be a bit sketchy. Just follow general safety precautions and you will have an awesome time! It’s a true gem.
Be cautious, it isn't always safe
i’ve been here for two months and got jumped by two guys (one of them is probably mentally unstable ) trying to pick up a fight. Fortunately I managed to escape. This have never happened to me before and honestly I don’t feel safe anymore.
Beach bums
The beach here is excellent but beware of hidden needles in the sand.
No beaches in Glasgow
There’s a beach in Glasgow? I never knew!
Frankly, this comment is clearly from someone who’s never looked at a picture of the city, never mind visited it.
Machete city
Glasgow is far from safe 2 machete attacks in recent weeks deliveroo and Uber eats riders propositioning young girls. Class A drugs coming out barrowlands sold by wee chavs on pish bikes. Girls raped in sauchiehall alleyways and parks , various scams from fake monks to people asking to borrow your phone also junkies shooting up middle of Buchannan street gas cans being used to get high, constantly being asked for changed. Refugees filling hotels and causing issues from knife fights to overdoses. No idea why they think Glasgow is safe lived here and worked in centre for a long time it is an absolute hell hole half the crap that happens never reaches local news because the government and council don’t want to tarnish Glasgow and send it back to dangerous as it was in the 90s.
Dream city.
I’ve been to lots of countries and Glasgow is the safest and friendliest City I have ever visited .What a beautiful place .