Bowes on the map
Location in County DurhamBowes sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Bowes
Bowes is a small village located in County Durham, in the north of England, within the DL12 postcode area. It lies in the Pennine foothills, close to the border with North Yorkshire, and is known for its historic market cross and the Bowes Museum, which houses a significant collection of art and artefacts. The village has a long history, with evidence of settlement dating back to Roman times, and it was once an important stop on the route between London and Edinburgh. The surrounding countryside offers walking and cycling opportunities, with the River Tees flowing nearby. Bowes retains a quiet, rural character, with traditional stone buildings and a community focused on local heritage and agriculture. Its proximity to the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty makes it a popular spot for those seeking peaceful countryside views.
School Ratings in Bowes
There are 7 schools in and around Bowes. Montalbo Nursery & Primary School and Teesdale School and Sixth Form are each rated Outstanding by Ofsted. A further 1 school holds a Good rating.
House Prices in Bowes
The average property price is £263K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £340K.
Deprivation and Employment in Bowes
Bowes sits around the middle of the national deprivation scale, according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment levels are broadly typical for the area, sitting close to the national average. Household incomes are generally above the national average.
Local Data for Bowes
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Property Prices 2,008 sales
Schools & Education 7 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the DL12 postcode area.
Household Income in Bowes ONS 2023
The average total household income in Bowes is approximately £43,915 a year before tax, 21% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £36,090. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £36,090.
Businesses in Bowes ONS 2025
There are approximately 837 active businesses based in Bowes, around 69 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 92% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 5 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Bowes IMD 2025
Bowes sits around the national average for deprivation according to the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation. Employment and income levels are broadly typical, reflecting a mixed local economy. The area offers a balance of residential and commercial activity common to most parts of England.
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Bowes
Of the 5,615 households in and around Bowes, 68% are owned, 13% are socially rented and 19% 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 Bowes.