Is Birmingham Safe for Travel in 2024?

Birmingham, United Kingdom
Safety Score
57

Birmingham is a city and metropolitan borough in the West Midlands, England. It is the second-largest city, urban area, and metropolitan area in England and the United Kingdom, with roughly 1.1 million inhabitants within the city area, 2.9 million inhabitants within the urban area, and 4.3 million inhabitants within the metropolitan area. The city proper is the most populated English local government district.

Warnings & Dangers in Birmingham

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM

Birmingham is not the safest place for travelers, but you can avoid most of the troubles if you use common sense and take precautions.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : LOW

Public transport is well-developed and safe. Taxis are convenient for getting around, but sometimes drivers can rip off tourists at exorbitant prices. Make sure the taxi has a taximeter.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM

Like any major city in Birmingham, pickpockets do happen. Especially on public transport during rush hour. Keep track of your belongings, and do not leave bags and wallets unattended on the tables in the cafe.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : LOW

Birmingham is not exposed to any serious risks of natural disasters.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM

Attacks and kidnappings can take place in districts of the city center. Avoid places like this. Travel in a group at night, don't be alone. Use a taxi to return to your hotel.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK : MEDIUM

In the past, the United Kingdom has become a target for terrorist attacks, so this risk cannot be completely ruled out. Study the political environment and news before your visit here.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM

Fraud is commonly associated with street vendors offering counterfeit goods to tourists. Don't buy them even if the price is very attractive. Also, only withdraw money from ATMs at banks with cameras to avoid skimming your card.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW

Women traveling alone can feel quite safe in Birmingham. The main thing is to adhere to the usual precautions and monitor your surroundings.

How Safe Is Birmingham for Tourists?

Birmingham is not the safest city to travel to.

The crime index here ranges from medium to high.

The main problems are related to attacks, vandalism, and drug trafficking.

As with most major cities, there are fewer safe areas here.

It is advisable to stay away from the city center when football matches occur between the city’s two professional teams.

The suburbs have had their own problems with gun crime, but they are unlikely to affect you unless you become a part of the larger drug gang problem.

Avoid any relationship with drugs – this is illegal here and can lead to severe penalties.

Be considerate of those who ask or offer you help.

They can often be scammers or robbers.

The city center is usually quite safe.

As usual, common sense will keep you safe and avoid walking alone in deserted or poorly lit areas, especially at night.

Withdraw money only in ATMs with banks with cameras.

Every Friday and Saturday night, informal auto races occur around the city center ring road (Queensway).

Be aware of the danger it poses to other road users.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Birmingham?

The visa policy of the United Kingdom is the policy by which Her Majesty’s Government determines visa requirements for visitors to the United Kingdom, and the Crown dependencies of Guernsey, Jersey, and the Isle of Man and those seeking to work, study or reside there. All intended entrants must obtain a visa unless they are exempt.

Which Currency Is Used in Birmingham?

The pound sterling is known in some contexts simply as the pound or sterling is the official currency of the United Kingdom. It is subdivided into 100 pence (singular: penny, abbreviated: p).

How's the Weather like in Birmingham?

In Birmingham, the summers are long, hot, and muggy; the winters are short, cold​, and wet, and it is partly cloudy year-round. The best times to visit Birmingham are spring and fall, from March through May or September through November.

What Do I Need to Know about Airports in Birmingham?

Birmingham International Airport is an international airport located 10.2 km southeast of downtown Birmingham, in Solihull County, West Midlands, England.

Should I Get Travel Insurance for My Travels?

A travel insurance policy is a must when visiting a foreign country or city. Make sure you got it before starting your journey; the customs officer may ask for it.

What Are Some Things to Do in Birmingham?

Birmingham is a city in the English county of West Midlands. In the 18th century, it was the largest industrial center, so you can see many sights of the era of the industrial revolution here. The city has a network of canals, many of which originate in the Sherborne Wharf area. There are trendy cafes and bars along the canals. In the city center are the Birmingham Museum and the Pre-Raphaelite Art Gallery.

Is the Water in Birmingham Safe to Drink?

Tap water is safe to drink.

Is Uber Safe in Birmingham?

There is an Uber taxi in the city; you can call a taxi from your smartphone application. The fare will depend on the time of day, and the distance traveled.

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