Scotland's 'pickpocket capital' named as busy tourist trap tops list

Daily Record

2 days ago

Two cities in the country have been named the worst for pickpocketing.
Scotland's"most pickpocketed" cities have been revealed, with one also named the second worst for pickpocketing in the UK after London.
With the summer holidays in full swing and staycations on the rise, it is important that Scots are careful when out and about. If you are not mindful, it is easy to fall foul of light-fingered thieves and lose your valuables.
On Tuesday, July 29, Ripe Valuables Insurance revealed the UK's top pickpocket hotspots. London dominates the national pickpocket rankings, but two Scottish cities appear on the list of hotspots outside of the English capital.
Ranking as the number one pickpocket destination outside of London in the UK is Edinburgh. In particular, the Royal Mile was singled out as a hotspot for theft.
The Royal Mile is the name given to the historic collection of streets that form the primary thoroughfare of Edinburgh's Old Town. Dating back hundreds of years, it is a popular place to visit among tourists.
The Daily Record previously reported that the Royal Mile is the "worst tourist trap" in Scotland. The historic destination is home to more than 70 shops, many of which are specifically catered to holidaymakers.
Elsewhere, Glasgow placed at number five on the list of the UK pickpocket hotspots outside of London. The city's Buchanan Street was named as a particularly common destination for pickpocketing.
Buchanan Street is one of the biggest and most famous shopping thoroughfares in Scotland's biggest city. Forming the central stretch of Glasgow's shopping district, it is home to many big-name brands and chains.
Elsewhere, Market Street in Manchester came in at number two on Ripe Valuables' list. Rounding out the top five are The Lanes and Brighton Palace Pier—both in Brighton.
To put together their roundup, the experts investigated thousands of Tripadvisor reviews. They compiled reviews that mentioned the word 'pickpocket' across tourist attractions nationwide.
CEO of Ripe Valuables Insurance Alan Thomas commented: "We conducted this research to help travellers stay safe while enjoying the UK's attractions.
"Whether you're visiting a museum, shopping district or historic landmark, protecting your valuables should be top of mind."
The experts also shared a number of tips to help keep valuables safe when visiting Scotland's biggest cities. According to Ripe Valuables, holidaymakers should use anti-theft bags or backpacks, not flash expensive items, and avoid keeping everything in one place.
See below for the full list of the UK pickpocket hotspots outside of London.
UK pickpocket hotspots outside of London
Royal Mile, Edinburgh
Market Street, Manchester
The Lanes, Brighton
Brighton Palace Pier, Brighton
Buchanan Street, Glasgow
Shambles, York
Piccadilly Gardens, Manchester