The findings come from research commissioned by Ultion, a high-security lock manufacturer.
The study found regional differences in safety perceptions after dark, with Southampton, Liverpool, Bristol, and Wolverhampton among the cities with the highest levels of concern.
In contrast, Edinburgh, Cardiff and Wrexham reported the lowest.
The research also found that 69 per cent of UK women feel less safe outside after dark during the winter months, in comparison to 50 per cent of men.
The study found that 76 per cent of women change their behaviour at night to feel safer.
Annabel Mantel, managing director of Ultion, said: “Women are adjusting their daily routines and travel behaviours simply to feel safe after dark.
“When over 69 per cent of women report feeling unsafe in winter, this represents a significant and persistent social issue.
“Women are doing everything they can to stay safe – changing routes, booking taxis, calling friends on their walk home – yet the moment they should feel safest, when they reach their front door, is when anxiety peaks.
“Our research shows it is time to close this overlooked safety gap and make arriving home feel secure, not stressful.”
Around 40 per cent of women are reportedly avoiding going out at certain times, 26 per cent call someone while walking home, and 21 per cent take longer, better-lit routes.
A further 26 per cent choose public transport or taxis instead of walking, and 23 per cent have left events early due to feeling unsafe.
One in ten women have cancelled plans altogether.
The research also highlights concerns at the doorstep.
Around a third of women have worried someone was watching or following them to their door, 15 per cent feel most at risk while unlocking the door in the dark, and 22 per cent have felt unsafe approaching their home in the past year.