- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
National museum with art, natural history and geology collections, plus Impressionist works and changing exhibitions in Cathays Park.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bolton to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 17 Sept
Cheapest price on 17 Sept
£64
Average ticket price on 17 Sept
£64
Fastest journey on 17 Sept
3 h 51 m
Average journey duration on 17 Sept
3 h 51 m
Trains on 17 Sept
1
Distance
239 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bolton to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bolton to Cardiff will cost around £64 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £64.
Fast trains
On Thu 17 Sept, we found 1 trains from Bolton to Cardiff, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 239 km distance in an average of 3 h 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 51 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 51 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
10:543h51Bolton14:45Cardiff£641One-way0 changes
- 10:543h51Bolton14:45Cardiff£641One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Bolton to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bolton to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £28 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 25m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £28, while a train costs an average of £115.
Distance: 239 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£115 Average Price | £28 Average Price Cheapest | £49 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 25m Average total duration Fastest 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 25m Average total duration 10h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 48m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bolton to Cardiff is a coach with an average price of £28.
This is compared to other travel options from Bolton to Cardiff:
A coach is £88 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bolton to Cardiff costing on average £115.
The fastest way to travel from Bolton to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 55m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Coach takes on average 10h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bolton and Cardiff including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £115 compared to roughly £49 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-66.91. The journey takes 3h 55m versus 3h 48m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Bolton to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Bolton to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:54 Bolton | 3h51 | 14:45 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bolton to Cardiff by coach or train
Compare coach and 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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17 Sept
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23 Sept
Why should you book Bolton to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Bolton to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bolton to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Cardiff.
- 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.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bolton to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Bolton to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bolton to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bolton to Cardiff run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £115 but you can travel from only £28 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 20:48. The fastest train covers the 239 km distance in 3h 50m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £28
Distance 239 km |
Average train duration 3h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price £115 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 3h 50m |
First train 4:08 |
Last train 20:48 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £28
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited from Bolton to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Bolton and Cardiff from £28. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£115
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£43
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransPennine Express Duration
3h 34m
Cheapest TransPennine Express Price
£101
TransPennine Express frequency
9 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Trains Limited Duration
3h 43m
Cheapest Northern Trains Limited Price
£86
Northern Trains Limited frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Cardiff
Things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum of Welsh life with historic buildings, crafts, gardens and rural traditions relocated to spacious grounds west of the city.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Museum in a Victorian library celebrating Cardiff’s story through interactive displays, local history and a well-presented city timeline.
- Must visit
Cardiff Arcades
Historic shopping arcades in the city centre, prized for Victorian and Edwardian architecture, independent shops and an easy walking atmosphere.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central parkland behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, gardens, woodland paths and access to key civic sights.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with public art, broad promenades, modern landmarks and easy walks around the former dock basin.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A hearty Welsh broth of lamb or beef with leeks, potatoes and root vegetables. It is a classic national dish closely tied to Welsh home cooking.
- Vegetarian
Welsh rarebit
Traditional Welsh rarebit is toasted bread topped with a savoury cheese, ale and mustard sauce. It is a beloved pub and supper dish across Wales.
- Vegetarian
Bara brith
A sweet Welsh tea loaf made with dried fruit and mixed spice, usually sliced and spread with butter. It is a staple in cafés and homes.
Heaneys
Elegant dining room known for refined modern British cooking and polished service in central Cardiff.
Asador 44
Smart restaurant focused on local produce, seafood and modern British plates with a relaxed but polished atmosphere.
The Potted Pig
Stylish bistro and bar serving seasonal Welsh and British dishes, cocktails and brunch in a lively city-centre setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK city. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transport and casual meals stay fairly manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually small change or rounding up.
Cardiff Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.35
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city centre
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless payment on board, including tap on and tap off for adult single and day tickets.
- Cardiff Central is within easy walking distance of the main city centre streets, so walking is often quickest for central destinations.
FAQs: Bolton to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bolton to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Bolton to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £115, while the average price tends to be around £115.
The train journey from Bolton to Cardiff covers a distance of 239 km and takes approximately 3h 50m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Bolton to Cardiff is 239 km.
The first train from Bolton to Cardiff leaves at 4:08.
The last train from Bolton to Cardiff departs at 20:48.
Trains from Bolton to Cardiff run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bolton to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bolton to Cardiff.
To get from Bolton to Cardiff, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Bolton to Cardiff.
The train station in Bolton that goes to Cardiff is Bolton station (BON), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Bolton to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £28.
Booking trains from Bolton to Cardiff 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 Cardiff offers varied scenery, transitioning from the urban landscapes of northern England through the picturesque countryside of the Peak District and the rural areas of the Welsh borders, providing a diverse and scenic travel experience.
A day trip from Bolton to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 50m. However, there are 3 trains per day. The distance is 239 km.
In Cardiff, you can enjoy performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city centre, take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay, and have an adventurous day at Cardiff International White Water. Visit Cardiff Market for shopping and dining, discover Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore Cardiff Bay's attractions, enjoy the National Museum Cardiff's collections, and relax in Bute Park.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Cardiff's main attractions, including Cardiff Castle, the National Museum Cardiff, and the revitalised Cardiff Bay area.
Yes, you can take the train from Bolton to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bolton and Cardiff
Most Bolton to Cardiff trains use the Bolton to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Bolton and Cardiff 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 Cardiff
Which Bolton station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Bolton to Cardiff 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.
Hall I' Th' WoodHall-i'-th'-Wood station, Crompton Way, Hall-i'-th'-Wood, Lancashire, BL1 8UF
City-centre transport
Getting to Hall I' Th' Wood from Bolton city centre
Hall I' Th' Wood is 2 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainManchester Victoria - Blackburn, Rochdale - Blackburn, Manchester Victoria - Clitheroe, Rochdale - Clitheroe, Rochdale - Ribblehead, Bolton - Blackburn, Bolton - Clitheroe, Bolton - Ribblehead · 5m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
Bus507, 541, 533, 480 · 7m · £2 · every ~19 min
Hall I' Th' Wood train station facilities and services
Hall I' Th' Wood has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category C Station, Platforms are both accessed via a long set of step from street level, there is no step free route to the platforms, Accessible public telephones: The highest operating part of the telephone is 1140 mm above floor level, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · £2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Central train station facilities and services
Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
More options for your journey from Bolton to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Bolton
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