The London tube and train stations that are the worst for pickpocketing

• According to the British Transport Police (BTP), just under 14,000 pickpocketing offences were recorded in train stations under their jurisdiction in 2024.
• King’s Cross, St Pancras has been named the worst underground station for pickpocketing thefts in London.
• Pickpockets are opportunistic thieves who take advantage of busy train station crowds.

The worst train and tube stations for pickpocketing in London have been revealed. These are the stations where opportunistic thieves steal phones and wallets from passengers’ bags and pockets.

Unsurprisingly, many of the worst hit stations are commuter hotspots with King’s Cross St. Pancras Underground Station seeing more pickpocketing than anywhere else in Britain, with 506 reported incidents.

According to the information provided by the British Transport Police, just under 14,000 pickpocketing offenses were recorded in 2024, across all stations under the jurisdiction of the BTP. This means that around one in 25 pickpocketing incidents occurred at King’s Cross St. Pancras Underground Station.

Oxford Circus Underground Station isn’t far behind, with just 8% fewer reported offenses than King’s Cross St. Pancras, at 467. Sitting in the heart of London’s busiest shopping district, it’s always packed with commuters, shoppers, and tourists heading to Oxford Street.

Finsbury Park Railway Station takes third place with 433 reported pickpocketing incidents, proving that theft is a concern beyond central London. This station is a major interchange for National Rail, the Underground, and several bus routes, meaning thousands of people pass through daily. With so many commuters switching between services, it’s easy for pickpockets to blend into the crowd.

10 worst train and tube stations for pickpocketing in London

1. Kings Cross St Pancras Underground Station - 506

2. Oxford Circus Underground Station - 467

3. Finsbury Park Railway Station - 433

4. Euston Railway Station - 424

5. Tottenham Court Road Underground Station - 347

6. Green Park Underground Station - 300

7. Liverpool Street Station - 296

8. Leicester Square Underground Station - 287

9. London Bridge Railway Station - 284

10. Victoria Railway Station - 272

Keeping safe from pick pocketers in London

Cody Candee, CEO and Founder of Bounce.com shares his tips on protecting your belongings in train stations: “Train stations are some of the busiest public spaces, making them a prime target for opportunistic thieves. Extra precautions can make all the difference in keeping your personal belongings safe.

“A secure luggage storage service can help prevent theft, especially when exploring crowded areas. Using a trusted luggage storage service means you can travel around the city hands-free without worrying about keeping an eye on your bags. Bounce offers secure storage at over 10,000 locations in over 2,000 cities, making it easy to find a safe spot near major train stations worldwide.

“If you're carrying your bags, always keep them within sight. Wear backpacks on your front in crowded areas, and keep suitcases close, especially near escalators and ticket barriers. Avoid leaving bags on the floor or unattended on a seat when waiting for a train. If you do put your bag down, loop a bag strap around your arm or leg to prevent quick grabs.

“Scammers and pickpockets often work in teams, using distraction tactics to steal valuables. Be wary of anyone causing a scene, and stay alert in crowded spaces. Whether storing your bags securely or keeping them close, a little extra caution can result in a stress-free journey.”