Baytree,
Once you are able to access police.uk you will see that the roads in that area are very safe, with few crimes.

Bird in Hand is probably quite safe, although I don't think anybody on the forum has been in for many years - there are plenty of nice pubs in the area to choose from.

But I would suggest that you judge for yourself by spending an evening in the local area, maybe go for a drink at the Dartmouth Arms or the Question Bar and walk up to Thorpewood, you'll find it a pleasant way to spend an evening, and you can provide an unbiased report.