- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Engaging Roman museum built around the remains of a town house. See mosaics, artefacts and displays that bring Roman Canterbury to life.
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Travel Information
Compare train for Bolton to Canterbury
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bolton to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £215 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 56m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £215, while a train costs an average of £215.
Distance: 350 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£215 Average Price Cheapest | £73 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 56m Average total duration Fastest 3h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bolton to Canterbury is a train with an average price of £215.
The fastest way to travel from Bolton to Canterbury is by train with an average journey time of 3h 26m.
Yes, you can take a train between Bolton and Canterbury.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 2h 33m sooner (3h 26m by train vs 5h 59m by car). Tickets start at around £215 compared to roughly £73 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Bolton to Canterbury by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Bolton to Canterbury trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Northern Trains Limited or TransPennine Express offer trains services from Bolton to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bolton to Canterbury.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Trains Limited or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Canterbury.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bolton to Canterbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bolton to Canterbury run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £213 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:20, the last at 19:23. The fastest train covers the 350 km distance in 3h 34m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance 350 km |
Average train duration 3h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price £213 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 34m |
First train 5:20 |
Last train 19:23 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 7 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express from Bolton to Canterbury trainsAvanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Bolton and Canterbury from £213. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
4h 40m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£76
Avanti West Coast frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Trains Limited Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Northern Trains Limited Price
£213
Northern Trains Limited frequency
10 a day
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransPennine Express Duration
3h 34m
Cheapest TransPennine Express Price
£227
TransPennine Express frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Canterbury
Things to do in Canterbury
Discover the best of Canterbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canterbury trip today.
- Recommended
Canterbury Roman Museum
Interactive museum on the site of Roman Canterbury, with preserved pavement mosaics, finds and family-friendly interpretation underground.
- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Local museum and gallery with art, ceramics, natural history and changing displays. Good for a broad introduction to the city and region.
- Recommended
The King's Mile
Historic pedestrian street lined with timber-framed buildings, shops and cafés. A classic place to experience Canterbury’s medieval townscape.
- Recommended
Westgate Gardens
A landscaped public garden beside the old city walls. Popular for riverside walks, flower displays and a relaxing break near the centre.
Dane John Gardens
A peaceful green beside the River Stour and cathedral precinct. Ideal for a short scenic walk, picnic or photographs of the city’s historic core.
- Vegetarian
Kentish Huffkin
Kentish Huffkin is a traditional Kent bread roll, often served filled with ham, cheese or fruit. It is a long-standing local bakery staple across East Kent.
- Vegetarian
Canterbury Tart
Canterbury Tart is a local jam tart linked with the city, typically made with shortcrust pastry and apple or berry jam. It is a classic Kent teatime bake.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Kentish Cobnuts
Kentish Cobnuts are cultivated hazelnuts from Kent, prized for their sweet flavour and strong county identity. They are eaten fresh, roasted or in desserts.
The Corner House
Popular city-centre bistro serving modern British dishes in a relaxed, stylish setting. Well regarded for brunch, lunch and seasonal dinners.
Chapman's Seafood Bar & Brasserie
Elegant restaurant focused on seafood and modern British cooking. A refined but welcoming choice for a special meal near the city centre.
The Parrot
Historic pub with traditional interiors, local ales and hearty British food. A good place to try Kentish beer in a characterful setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining are pricier than smaller UK towns, but local buses and casual meals stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: rounding up is enough. Taxis: round up or add about 10% for good service.
Stagecoach Bus App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city centre
Canterbury West -> Canterbury Bus Station, Canterbury
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Stagecoach says Canterbury single bus fares are capped at £3, and DayRider tickets are sold in the Stagecoach Bus App.
- Canterbury City Council says Park and Ride tickets can be bought on board. Contactless card payment is commonly available on Stagecoach buses, but check when boarding.
FAQs: Bolton to Canterbury train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bolton to Canterbury by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Canterbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Bolton to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £213, while the average price tends to be around £215.
The train journey from Bolton to Canterbury covers a distance of 350 km and takes approximately 3h 34m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Bolton to Canterbury is 350 km.
The first train from Bolton to Canterbury leaves at 5:20.
The last train from Bolton to Canterbury departs at 19:23.
Trains from Bolton to Canterbury run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bolton to Canterbury.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bolton to Canterbury.
To travel from Bolton to Canterbury, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Bolton to Canterbury.
The train station in Bolton that goes to Canterbury is Bolton station (BON), and it arrives at Canterbury West (CBW).
The cheapest way to get from Bolton to Canterbury is by train, costing approximately £213.
Booking trains from Bolton to Canterbury in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Bolton to Canterbury offers a diverse landscape, transitioning from urban areas in the North West to the picturesque countryside of South East England, including views of the Chiltern Hills and glimpses of traditional villages along the way.
A day trip from Bolton to Canterbury is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 34m, covering a distance of 350 km. Trains run 4 times per day.
In Canterbury, you can explore the historic streets on a guided walking tour, enjoy a punting tour on the River Stour, and visit the Canterbury Tales attraction. Attend a performance at The Marlowe Theatre or discover the local food scene on a culinary tour. Key sights include the Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine's Abbey, the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint, the Canterbury Roman Museum, and Westgate Gardens.
To fully explore Canterbury's historic sites, such as Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine's Abbey, and the Canterbury Roman Museum, a visit of two to three days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Bolton to Canterbury.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bolton and Canterbury
Most Bolton to Canterbury trains use the Bolton to Canterbury West station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury East. Use this guide to compare Bolton and Canterbury train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bolton
Arrival train stations in Canterbury
Which Bolton station do trains to Canterbury leave from?
Trains from Bolton to Canterbury leave from Bolton. The station is 1 km from Bolton city centre at Bolton station, Trinity Street, Bolton, Lancashire, BL2 1BE.
BoltonBolton station, Trinity Street, Bolton, Lancashire, BL2 1BE
City-centre transport
Getting to Bolton from Bolton city centre
Bolton is 1 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus576, 535, 525, 526, 507, 561, 562, 575, 527, 534, 537, 541, 533, 480 · 10m · £2 · every ~79 min
125 · 15m · £8 · every ~16 min
Bolton train station facilities and services
Bolton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bolton.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bolton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bolton.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bolton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bolton: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bolton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A Station, this station is scooter friendly, a scooter permit is required for travel, Level access through the ticket barriers to an overpass and via lifts to all platforms. Lifts available from first to last trains, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Canterbury station do trains from Bolton arrive at?
Trains from Bolton to Canterbury most often arrive at Canterbury West. Some services arrive at Canterbury East, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Canterbury arrival station.
Canterbury WestCanterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury West from Canterbury city centre
Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · £3 · every ~22 min
Canterbury West train station facilities and services
Canterbury West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: two within concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Canterbury EastCanterbury East station, Station Road East, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2RB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury East from Canterbury city centre
Bus649 · 9m
Canterbury East train station facilities and services
Canterbury East has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury East.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Canterbury East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury East. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury East: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury East: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
More options for your journey from Bolton to Canterbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Canterbury and Bolton
Most popular train connections to Canterbury
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