Bowden on the map
Location in DorsetBowden sits where the marker shows within the county.
About Bowden
Bowden is a small village located in the county of Dorset, in the south of England. It lies within the postal area of SP8 and is situated in a rural part of the countryside. The village is surrounded by open fields and farmland, typical of the Dorset landscape. While it is not a large settlement, Bowden has a quiet, peaceful character with a mix of traditional and modern homes. The area is known for its agricultural activity and proximity to the River Stour, which flows nearby. There are a few local amenities, including a village hall and a small shop, serving the needs of residents. The community is close-knit, with regular events and gatherings taking place throughout the year. Bowden offers a calm and rural lifestyle, with easy access to the wider Dorset countryside and nearby towns.
School Ratings in Bowden
There are 19 schools in and around Bowden. A further 2 schools hold a Good rating.
House Prices in Bowden
The average property price is £337K, with detached homes making up the majority of the housing stock at around £415K.
Crime and Anti-Social Behaviour in Bowden
Recorded crime levels are lower than the national average. Anti-social behaviour is prevalent across Bowden, with 21 recorded incidents in May 2026.
Deprivation and Employment in Bowden
Bowden 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 broadly in line with the national average.
Healthcare in Bowden
There is 1 GP surgery within three miles of Bowden, the nearest being Gillingham Medical Practice (2.9 miles away).
Local Data for Bowden
Dig deeper into the area around Bowden with our free postcode tools.
Property Prices 2,577 sales
Schools & Education 12 nearby View all schools
Ofsted ratings for schools in the SP8 postcode area.
Household Income in Bowden ONS 2023
The average total household income in Bowden is approximately £51,083 a year before tax, 8% below the national average of £55,302. After tax and benefits, the average disposable (net) household income is around £39,130. These are modelled estimates from the Office for National Statistics for the financial year ending 2023.
Net (after tax) household income averages £39,130.
Businesses in Bowden ONS 2025
There are approximately 688 active businesses based in Bowden, around 45 for every 1,000 residents. The local economy is dominated by small firms: about 93% are micro-businesses employing fewer than 10 people, while 9 are larger employers with 50 or more staff. Figures are from the Office for National Statistics UK Business Counts.
Deprivation and Employment in Bowden IMD 2025
Bowden 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.
Crime in Bowden 48 crimes · May 2026
Bowden records relatively low levels of reported crime compared to national averages. Anti-social behaviour is the most commonly logged offence type, though overall numbers remain modest. The area is generally considered a safe and settled small town with a strong sense of community.
Crime figures depend on reporting by individual police forces and may not reflect the full picture in all areas.
Nearest Train Stations 4 stations
Location
Nearby Towns & Villages 12 found
Local Government
Home Ownership in Bowden
Of the 6,797 households in and around Bowden, 74% are owned, 10% 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 Bowden.