Bowlees on the map
Location in County DurhamBowlees sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Bowlees
Bowlees is a small settlement located in County Durham, within the north of England. It lies in a rural area, surrounded by open countryside and rolling hills typical of the region. The village is situated near the River Tees, which flows through the valley and contributes to the area’s natural character. Bowlees is part of the DL12 postcode area, placing it within the broader Darlington district. The landscape is largely agricultural, with fields and farmland dominating the surroundings. There are a few scattered homes and farmhouses, reflecting the quiet, countryside nature of the locality. The area is accessible by road, with the A689 running nearby, connecting it to nearby towns such as Darlington and Barnard Castle. While not a large community, Bowlees offers a peaceful environment for those seeking a rural lifestyle.
House Prices in Bowlees
Property prices average £263K across the area, and detached homes are the most common property type, typically selling for £340K.
Deprivation and Employment in Bowlees
Based on the 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation, Bowlees falls within the mid-range nationally for overall deprivation. Working-age employment is around the national average for the area. Income levels across the area tend to be higher than the national average.
Local Data for Bowlees
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Property Prices 2,008 sales
Schools & Education 1 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the DL12 postcode area.
Household Income in Bowlees ONS 2023
The average total household income in Bowlees 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 Bowlees ONS 2025
There are approximately 837 active businesses based in Bowlees, 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 Bowlees IMD 2025
The 2025 Index of Multiple Deprivation places Bowlees 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.
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Bowlees
Of the 5,615 households in and around Bowlees, 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 Bowlees.