Is Leicester Safe for International Students: Honest Guide 2025

Thinking about studying in Leicester but worried about safety? You're not alone. As a student, moving to a new country makes you feel nervous, but don't stress. Universities and student accommodation in Leicester are equipped with robust security measures to ensure student well-being. Students can choose areas that are safe and known for their low crime rate. In addition, the city offers reliable and accessible public transport, helping students get around safely and conveniently. The city guide of Leicester will provide you with honest facts about the city’s safety for students. 

Leicester Safety Reality Check

Leicester sits in the mid-range for UK university cities and is generally considered safer than cities like Birmingham or Nottingham. Before booking any housing, it’s important to check the safety features provided. There are several top student accommodation in Leicester that offer CCTV, secure entry systems, and on-site security teams to ensure students have a safe and comfortable living experience. 

University Campus Safety

University of Leicester Security

The University of Leicester takes students' safety seriously. They consistently work efficiently to keep all students safe, especially intentionally, students who might not be familiar with how things work in the UK. This educational centre belongs to one of the top universities in Leicester, which offers 

• 24/7 professional security team in high-vis uniforms
• CCTV coverage across all campus buildings and outdoor areas
• Emergency call points are every 100 meters on campus
• Safezone app with GPS tracking and emergency alerts
• Security escort service for students working late
• Regular safety patrols in student housing areas

Security response time on campus averages 3-5 minutes. They work directly with Leicestershire Police for off-campus incidents. The Safezone app is genuinely useful. It connects directly to university security, lets you share your location with friends, and sends emergency alerts about campus incidents. Considering student accommodation near the University of Leicester will add an extra security and peace of mind. 

De Montfort University Safety Support

De Montfort University (DMU) is located in the heart of Leicester and is known for its creative and career-focused courses. If you think why De Montfort University is the best for international students, it is because of its strong focus on student safety. The university offers

• 24/7 security across all three campuses
• Modern CCTV network covering the campus and surrounding streets
• Emergency phones are throughout the campus and the car parks
• Secure card access to all buildings
• Regular security briefings for international students

Specific support for International students:

• Mandatory safety orientation explaining UK laws and customs
• Safety maps showing recommended routes and areas to avoid
• Emergency contact cards in multiple languages
• Cultural integration support to prevent misunderstandings
• Direct liaison with local police for student issues

Area-by-Area Safety Breakdown

Safe Areas for Students

Planning to stay longer? Choose the best areas to live in Leicester. They’re safe, well-lit, and close to buses and shops. Leicester is an ideal student destination with great places to live and everything you need close by.

New Walk/University Area:

• Well-lit Victorian streets with regular foot traffic
• Heavy police and security presence
• Close to both universities
• Good mix of students and professionals
• Minimal serious crime incidents

Cultural Quarter:

• Well-maintained and regularly monitored
• Lots of evening activity from theatres and restaurants
• Good street lighting and CCTV coverage
• Safe for walking even late at night

Clarendon Park:

• Popular with postgraduate students
• Residential area with active community watch
• Good bus connections to universities
• Lower crime rates than the city centre

Areas Requiring Extra Caution

Parts of Westcotes:

• Higher incidents of drug-related crime
• Some streets have poor lighting
• Avoid walking alone after 10 pm
• Stick to the main roads while travelling

Late-night city centre:

• Safe during the day, busier at night
• Use licensed taxis rather than walking
• Stay in groups when possible

Areas near the train station:

• Higher theft incidents, especially late evening
• Lots of people are passing through
• Keep valuables secure and stay alert

The key thing to understand: Leicester's crime concentrates in specific areas and times. Most student areas are genuinely safe with basic precautions.

Student Accommodation Safety

University Halls Security

Both universities guarantee first-year international students accommodation, which generally offers the highest safety standards. Thestudent accommodation guide for Leicester will assist in choosing the best options suiting your preferences. 

Standard security features:

• 24/7 reception staff
• Controlled access requiring student ID cards
• CCTV in all common areas and entrances
• Regular safety inspections
• On-site residential advisors
• Clear emergency procedures

Private Student Accommodation (PBSA)

Many students prefer Purpose-Built Student Accommodation for the additional amenities and independence. Students looking for luxury student accommodation in Leicester can find high-end options with modern rooms, great locations, and premium facilities

Essential PBSA security features to look for:

• 24/7 concierge or security presence
• Controlled building access with card systems
• CCTV coverage in all common areas
• Secure bike storage (bike theft is common)
• Emergency contact systems in every room
• Regular maintenance of safety equipment

Students can consider residing in iQ Opal Court, Castle Court or Newarke Point. These are listed housing options that ensure safety throughout the academic year. 

Private House Shares

For affordable student accommodation in Leicester, private houses are ideal options. Before you book, make sure to look over crucial aspects. 

Safety checklist for private rentals:

• Check whether all locks work properly on doors and windows
• Verify that smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms function
• Confirm that gas and electrical safety certificates are still valid 
• Research the specific street using crime mapping websites
• Meet other tenants before moving in
• Get the landlord's emergency contact details

Safer neighbourhoods for private housing:

• Oadby: Popular with Leicester University students, suburban feel
• Knighton: Good transport links, established residential area
• Queens Road area: Close to both universities, active student community

Getting Around Safely

Public Transport Reality

Leicester's public transport system is decent,  but requires some awareness for safety. If you are planning things to do in Leicester, make sure to include travel time and stay alert while exploring the city.

Bus safety basics:

• Leicester buses are generally safe and reliable
• Sit near the front when travelling alone at night
• Have exact change ready to minimise cash handling
• Download the First Bus app for real-time updates
• Last buses can be less supervised - plan alternative transport

Train safety considerations:

• Leicester station is well-monitored, but stay alert for pickpockets
• Late-night trains have fewer staff around
• Book tickets online when possible to reduce cash transactions
• Keep bags zipped and valuables secure

Walking and Cycling

Most students walk or cycle around the city to explore the fun facts about Leicester. It's generally safe with proper awareness. 

Walking safety rules:

• Stick to well-lit main roads when possible
• Avoid wearing headphones late at night
• Don't display expensive items like the latest iPhones
• Walk confidently and stay aware of your surroundings
• Trust your instincts - if something feels off, find a busy area

Cycling safety:

• Invest in a proper D-lock plus security chain
• Register your bike with the police through BikeRegister (free)
• Use cycle lanes where available
• Wear lights and reflective gear at night
• Never leave bikes in isolated spots, even when locked

Bike theft is genuinely common in Leicester, so proper security is essential.

Cultural Safety for International Students

Understanding UK Laws and Norms

Some safety issues stem from cultural misunderstandings rather than actual crime. This may leave you feeling isolated or even trigger homesickness. Don’t stress, our blog on how to overcome homesickness as a student in the UK offers practical tips to help you feel more comfortable. 

Legal stuff that trips up international students:

• Alcohol laws: Must be 18+ to buy alcohol; public drunkenness can lead to arrest
• Drug laws: All recreational drugs are illegal, with serious consequences
• Harassment laws: Behaviour acceptable in some cultures might be considered harassment here
• Property laws: Taking anything without permission is theft, even if it seems abandoned

Dealing with Discrimination

In case of discrimination, knowing how to handle this is crucial, as it not only protects your rights but also helps you access the necessary support systems

If you experience discrimination:

• Report incidents to the university's international student services immediately
• Contact police on 101 (non-emergency) or 999 if you feel threatened
• Document everything with dates, times, and witness information
• Reach out to cultural societies or international student groups

Support resources:

• University counselling services (free and confidential)
• International student advisors at both universities
• Students' union support services
• Local community groups and religious organisations

Emergency Resources 

Essential Contact Numbers

For a better student life in Leicester, it’s important to save these essential contacts in your phone immediately. Having them handy ensures you’re prepared for any situation and can quickly access support when needed

Emergency Services:

• 999: Police, Fire, Ambulance (works from any phone, even without credit)
• 101: Non-emergency police for reporting minor crimes
• 111: NHS health advice line (24/7)

University Emergency Contacts:

• University of Leicester Security: 0116 252 5444
• DMU Security: 0116 207 8888
• Leicester Uni International Support: 0116 252 5894
• DMU International Services: 0116 250 6070

Other Useful Numbers:

• Samaritans: 116 123 (free emotional support, 24/7)
• Leicestershire Police: 0116 222 2222
• Leicester City Council: 0116 454 1000

Healthcare and Mental Health

Healthcare basics for international students:

• Register with a local GP (doctor) immediately upon arrival
• Emergency treatment is free, but some services require payment
• Keep any medical prescriptions and health records accessible

Mental health support:

• University counselling is confidential and free
• Student Health App provides 24/7 support
• Mind charity helpline: 0300 123 3393
• Crisis text line: Text SHOUT to 85258

Daily Safety Practices That Work

Technology for Safety

Useful safety apps:

• Safezone: Your university's official safety app
• What3Words: Helps emergency services find your exact location
• First Bus: Real-time bus information
• Citymapper: Navigation and public transport planning

Nightlife Safety Guide

Safe Clubbing and Drinking

Clubs in Leicester have an active student nightlife, with many venues taking steps to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for everyone. 

 Popular student venues with good security:

• O2 Academy Leicester: University-affiliated, good security
• Mosh: Popular with students, well-managed
• Club Republic: Regular security checks, central location

Drinking safety basics:

• Stick with your group and set meeting points
• Pre-book taxis rather than walking late at night
• Keep emergency money separate from your main cash
• Know your limits - Leicester's alcohol is strong

Getting home safely:

• Book taxis through apps like Uber or local companies
• Share ride details with friends
• Use well-lit main roads if walking
• Stay in groups when possible
• Avoid shortcuts through parks or quiet areas

Financial Safety

Banking and Money Safety

Protect yourself financially:

• Use ATMs inside banks or busy shopping areas
• Never share PINs or banking details
• Set up account alerts for all transactions
• Report lost/stolen cards immediately
• Be suspicious of people offering help at ATMs

Avoiding student-targeted scams:

• Universities never ask for payment over the phone
• Be wary of too-good-to-be-true job offers
• Never pay upfront fees for job opportunities
• Verify landlord credentials before paying deposits
• Use official university accommodation booking systems

Long-term Safety Considerations

Building Safe Social Networks

Joining student societies and clubs in Leicester is a great way to meet supportive peers, build lasting friendships, and create a sense of community away from home.

Safe ways to build community:

• Join official university societies and clubs
• Participate in organised sports or fitness activities
• Attend cultural events and festivals
• Volunteer with established charities
• Connect through academic study groups

Final Words

Leicester is reasonably safe for international students who take sensible precautions. It offers robust support systems and has welcomed thousands of international students successfully. As an international student, it is important to know the pros and cons of living in Leicester to make informed decisions that suit your lifestyle and needs. Students' safety largely depends on making informed choices about accommodation, activities, and daily habits rather than avoiding Leicester entirely.

Both universities provide extensive safety resources designed specifically for international students. Use them, stay connected with other students, and don't hesitate to ask for help.