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In a new study conducted by Howden Insurance, Padstow, Cornwall is identified as one of the safest seaside staycation spots in England and Wales.
Drawing data from CrimeRate, this study examines the crime rates and average crime count across England and Wales’ most sought-after seaside staycation destinations, to identify the most and least safe destinations.
The crime rate shows how crime levels compare to the national average, with 1 equating to the average, 2 meaning double, and 0.25 a quarter.
The analysis encompasses various crime categories, including vehicle crime, theft, robbery, arson, and more, which are then combined to find an overall average.
In the summertime, many opt for a staycation over venturing abroad due to convenience, affordability, or personal preference. With staycations increasing in popularity, knowing the safest places to visit can aid in decision-making.
Padstow stands out as the top choice for a secure seaside staycation. Located in Cornwall, this town reports an average of five incidents across the analysed crimes and boasts an overall crime rate of just 1.2 – slightly above the national average.
Another Cornish town finds itself near the top of the ranking, with St Ives taking second place with an average crime count of 25 and an average crime rate of 2.15.
Hornsea, a small seaside town in the East Riding of Yorkshire, holds third place as one of the UK’s safest staycation spots, with an average crime count of 24 and a crime rate of 3.24 – which is still significantly lower than most other spots.
Taking fourth place in the ranking is Ilfracombe, a seaside town in North Devon, where the average crime count is 39 and the overall crime rate is 3.61.
Fifth on the list is Falmouth, yet another Cornish coastal town, with an average crime count of 79 and a crime rate of 3.8.
The top ten safest seaside staycation spots in the UK
| Location | Average Crime Count | Average Crime Rate |
| Padstow | 5 | 1.2 |
| St Ives | 25 | 2.15 |
| Hornsea | 24 | 3.24 |
| Ilfracombe | 39 | 3.61 |
| Falmouth | 79 | 3.8 |
| Plymouth | 1,338 | 5.07 |
| Newquay | 131 | 7.17 |
| Filey | 47 | 7.33 |
| Bournemouth | 2,766 | 7.83 |
| Burnham on Sea | 159 | 8.43 |
On the other side of the ranking is Skegness, a popular seaside spot on the coast of Lincolnshire. The crime count here is 332 and the crime rate is a huge 16.67.
In the ranking, Blackpool lands second to last, emerging as one of the less secure seaside staycation destinations, with an average crime count of 2,357 and an overall rate of 16.32.
Scarborough is third to last in the ranking, with an average crime count of 754 and an average crime rate of 15.33. Just before this is Dover, a seaside town on the coast of Kent, where the crime count is 487 and the crime rate is 15.13.
Cleethorpes lands in fifth place among the ranking’s riskier destinations, averaging a crime count of 324 and a crime rate of 14.33.
The ten most dangerous seaside staycation spots
| Location | Average Crime Count | Average Crime Rate |
| Skegness | 332 | 16.67 |
| Blackpool | 2,357 | 16.32 |
| Scarborough | 754 | 15.33 |
| Dover | 487 | 15.13 |
| Cleethorpes | 324 | 14.33 |
| Margate | 675 | 14.07 |
| Morecambe | 422 | 13.04 |
| Colwyn Bay | 146 | 12.24 |
| Weston-Super-Mare | 783 | 10.9 |
| Llandudno | 249 | 10.86 |
Discussing the findings, a spokesperson from Howden Insurance said, “Our latest research sheds light on the safety of seaside staycation spots, offering crucial insights for travellers – especially those travelling solo or with young children. Informed decision-making is key for those seeking a secure getaway this summer.
“As for ensuring safety during staycations, it’s wise to research destination safety ratings, choose accommodations with reliable security measures, stay in well-lit areas, and stay aware of your surroundings. Investing in comprehensive travel insurance can also offer peace of mind for any unexpected situations.”
