Before knowing the most dangerous areas in Lancashire, learn the county details. Nestled in the North West of England, Lancashire is a county rich in history, offering a blend of vibrant urban centres and scenic rural landscapes. With a population of over one million, it has earned a reputation as a safe place to live, supported by surveys indicating that 87% of residents feel secure in their communities.
However, this positive image is contradicted by reports highlighting serious issues in certain towns within the county. These areas have been identified as among the most dangerous in the UK, struggling with high crime rates, drug problems, and severe deprivation. Such findings cast doubt on Lancashire’s broader reputation for safety. So, what is the real story behind crime in Lancashire?
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Is Lancashire a Good Area?
Lancashire remains one of the safer counties in the North West overall. Recent figures from CrimeRate show an overall crime rate of 71 crimes per 1,000 people as of January 2026. Violence and sexual offences continue to be the most reported incidents, affecting around 35 in every 1,000 residents.
Although crime levels remain lower than the wider regional average, the county has seen a small rise in reported offences over the past year. Some locations, including Blackpool and Accrington, experience higher crime concentration than quieter areas. In contrast, places such as Ormskirk, Longton, and Aughton continue to maintain a strong reputation for safety, attracting families, commuters, and retirees looking for a calmer environment.
The Most Dangerous Areas in Lancashire
To better understand crime levels in Lancashire, we have identified the areas with the highest crime rates in the county.
| Town/City | Crime Count | Crime Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Blackpool | 21,274 | 133 |
| Burnley | 8,460 | 106 |
| Accrington | 4,089 | 105 |
| Morecambe | 3,599 | 100 |
| Fleetwood | 2,667 | 92 |
| Preston | 13,689 | 89 |
| Padiham | 1,025 | 89 |
| Colne | 1,865 | 88 |
| Oswaldtwistle | 953 | 81 |
| Great Harwood | 863 | 78 |
The data shows that Blackpool is the most dangerous town in Lancashire, reporting 21,274 crimes. This high ranking is driven by a crime rate of 133 crimes per 1,000 people, which is significantly higher than the county average.
A Breakdown of Common Crimes in Lancashire
The statistics show that Lancashire experiences relatively low level of crime. However, it’s not just the number of crimes that matters, but the type of crimes being committed.
By understanding which crimes cause the most harm, we can better assess how dangerous an area truly is. Comparing areas based on crime rates alone may lead to different conclusions once the nature of the crimes is considered.
A report by Crimerate highlights the types of crimes recorded in Lancashire.
| Crime | Crime Count | Crime Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Violence and Sexual Offences | 60,744 | 34.63 |
| Anti-Social Behaviour | 51,957 | 29.63 |
| Criminal Damage and Arson | 12,539 | 7.15 |
| Shoplifting | 9,246 | 5.27 |
| Other Theft | 9,045 | 5.15 |
| Public Order | 8,245 | 4.70 |
| Vehicle Crime | 6,402 | 3.64 |
| Burglary | 5,795 | 3.29 |
| Other Crime | 4,195 | 2.39 |
| Drugs | 4,058 | 2.32 |
| Possession of Weapons | 1,745 | 0.99 |
| Robbery | 1,185 | 0.68 |
| Bicycle Theft | 933 | 0.53 |
| Theft from the Person | 659 | 0.38 |
Violence and sexual offences are some of the most common crimes in Lancashire, with anti-social behaviour also being a frequent issue. For this reason, it’s essential to stay aware of your surroundings and take the necessary precautions to stay safe.
So, What Are the Top 10 Most Dangerous Areas in Lancashire?
Lancashire is generally considered one of the safer counties in the UK, with an average crime rate. However, some towns and cities within the county report higher crime rates, while others experience much lower levels. As with any region, certain areas of Lancashire are more dangerous than others, so it’s always important to take precautions to stay safe.
To protect your business and employees from crime, investing in security measures is crucial. Hiring a professional security company is an effective way to minimise the risk of criminal activity. Our services include deploying security guards to deter criminals and monitoring your property through CCTV. We can also assess your current security practices and provide advice on how to improve overall safety.
For the latest updates on Lancashire and the North West region, explore our recent articles, such as the Top 10 Most Dangerous Areas in Manchester and Is Liverpool Safer Than Manchester?
If you want more security tips, visit our Region Security Guarding YouTube channel for the latest advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lancashire a good place to live?
For many people, yes. Lancashire has a mix of busy towns, quieter villages, and coastal areas. Some parts see more crime than others, but many areas still feel calm and settled.
What is the most common crime in Lancashire?
Violence and sexual offences are reported more than any other crime type in the county. Anti-social behaviour is also common in some town centres and public areas.
Which towns in Lancashire have higher crime rates?
Blackpool, Burnley, and Accrington tend to record higher crime levels than other parts of Lancashire. Busier locations often experience more reported incidents.
Are there safe areas in Lancashire for families?
Yes. Places like Ormskirk, Longton, and Aughton are often viewed as safer areas with a quieter atmosphere and lower crime levels.
Has crime in Lancashire gone up recently?
Recent figures show a small increase over the past year. Even so, Lancashire still compares well with many other areas across the North West.
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