Bolam on the map
Location in County DurhamBolam sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Bolam
Bolam is a small village located in County Durham, in the north of England. It lies within the DL2 postcode area and is situated near the River Wear, offering views of the surrounding countryside. The village has a rural character, with a mix of traditional stone and brick houses, and a small number of local amenities. It is close to the town of Chester-le-Street and lies within easy reach of larger centres such as Durham and Newcastle upon Tyne. The area is known for its agricultural land and peaceful environment, with walking paths along the river and nearby woodland. Bolam has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back to medieval times. The village church, St Mary's, is a notable local landmark and reflects the area’s historical roots.
School Ratings in Bolam
Bolam is served by 45 schools. Pear Tree School and Hurworth House School Aspris Children's services are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 9 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Bolam
Property prices average £280K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £320K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Bolam
Local crime rates sit higher than national averages. Anti-social behaviour accounts for the highest share in Bolam, with 132 incidents logged in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Bolam
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Bolam falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels locally sit close to the national average.
Healthcare in Bolam
There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Bolam, the nearest being Evenwood Medical Practice (2.8 miles away).
Local Data for Bolam
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Property Prices 3,958 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the DL2 postcode area.
Household Income in Bolam ONS 2023
The average total household income in Bolam is approximately £54,094 a year before tax, in line with the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £41,144. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £41,144.
Businesses in Bolam ONS 2025
There are approximately 925 active businesses based in Bolam, around 47 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 89% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 23 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Bolam IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Bolam in the mid-range nationally. Employment and income levels are close to the England average, with a mix of opportunities across sectors. Overall living conditions are comparable to similar areas across the country.
Crime in Bolam 538 crimes · May 2026
Reported crime in Bolam is above the national average when measured per capita. Violence & sexual offences dominates the figures, a trend mirrored in many urban centres. Local policing teams work actively in the area, and community initiatives continue to address key concerns.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 5 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Bolam
Of the 8,433 households in and around Bolam, 76% are owned, 8% are socially rented and 17% are privately rented. Home ownership here is higher than the England and Wales average of 63%.
Tenure from the 2021 Census (ONS), for the postcode districts covering Bolam.