Local area guide

Living in Bellingham

Thinking about moving to Bellingham? Discover why it's a great place to live, fun things to do here, what the local schools are like, transport connections and so much more.

Your guide to moving to Bellingham

Why Bellingham is a good place to live

Bellingham combines natural beauty with urban charm in a unique way. Thanks to good transport links, which include the Bellingham railway station and plenty of bus lines, reaching different parts of the borough is a breeze. Renowned schools, rated as 'Outstanding' and 'Good' by Ofsted, are within easy reach. With property prices below the borough average, Bellingham provides an affordable lifestyle without compromising on conveniences. Living in Bellingham means being surrounded by multicultural amenities, including a supermarket, pub, gym and plenty of restaurants all at your doorstep. Its residential nature makes for a peaceful environment.

What's Bellingham famous for?

Bellingham is famous for being home to notable personalities like writer and comedian Spike Milligan, actress and politician Glenda Jackson and footballer Ian Wright. In addition, Bellingham proudly hosts Western Washington University, which has contributed to its recognition as a college town. The city's fascinating history involving the coal mining and lumber industry is another point of interest. Lastly, Bellingham holds bragging rights for being the northernmost city with over 90,000 residents in the contiguous United States.

Things to do in Bellingham

One feature that makes Bellingham special is the abundance of activities. You can enjoy nature at local parks like Whatcom Falls Park or take scenic drives along Chuckanut Drive or Mount Baker Highway. History enthusiasts can explore heritage sites like Bellingham Heritage Centre, and those interested in arts can visit Mount Baker Theatre. Be it whale watching in the Georgia Strait or shopping at vibrant local markets, there are things to do that cater to all interests. Bellingham's breweries offer an exciting peek into its craft beer culture, and regular events like the Ski to Sea Race and the Commercial Street Night Market add to the city's lively pulse.

We have used a bespoke generative AI model to help us research and create our area guides. All of our content is reviewed, and edited where needed, by our trusted team of Zoopla content editors.

Properties currently for sale in Bellingham

Whether you're looking to buy a family home or a beautiful apartment, we've got you covered.

Transport in Bellingham

Find the nearest train stations and other transport links in Bellingham.

Local connections

Bellingham
National Rail
0.3 miles / 0.5 km
Beckenham Hill
National Rail
0.5 miles / 0.8 km
Lower Sydenham
National Rail
0.6 miles / 1.0 km
Catford
National Rail
0.9 miles / 1.4 km
Catford Bridge
National Rail
0.9 miles / 1.4 km
New Beckenham
National Rail
1.1 miles / 1.8 km

Schools in Bellingham

Discover local primary schools, secondary schools and sixth form colleges in Bellingham.

Education in Bellingham

Elfrida Primary School
Ages: 2 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
Athelney Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
Watergate School
Ages: 4 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Outstanding (2022)
Haseltine Primary School
Ages: 3 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2023)
Sedgehill Academy
Ages: 11 - 18 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2022)
St John Baptist Southend Church of England Primary School
Ages: 4 - 11 years old
Ofsted Rating: Good (2020)

Local pubs in Bellingham

In partnership with
useyourlocal
  • Blythe Hill Tavern

    London SE23

    CAMRA award-winning, traditional Victorian corner pub where you will always find a warm welcome and a great selection of real ales on tap.

  • Catford Bridge Tavern

    London SE6

    The Catford Bridge Tavern is part of the Portobello Brewery family. We look forward to welcoming old and new customers and we hope to make this your home away from home.

  • Black Cat

    London SE6

    This extremely friendly local is on the edge of Catford Market. A warm welcome awaits you every day of the week with entertainment offered on most Saturday nights.