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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bolton to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for 17 Dec
Cheapest price
£38
Average price
£55
Fastest journey
3 h 52 m
Average duration
4 h 19 m
Trains per day
4
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 £55 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £38.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Bolton for Cardiff every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 239 km distance in an average of 4 h 19 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 52 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 30 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.
13:543h52
Bolton17:46Cardiff
£381One-way
0 changes
04:543h57
Bolton08:51Cardiff
£451One-way
0 changes
04:555h30
Bolton10:25Cardiff
£631One-way
0 changes
08:543h58
Bolton12:52Cardiff
£751One-way
0 changes
13:543h52
Bolton17:46Cardiff
£381One-way
0 changes
04:543h57
Bolton08:51Cardiff
£451One-way
0 changes
08:543h58
Bolton12:52Cardiff
£751One-way
0 changes
04:555h30
Bolton10:25Cardiff
£631One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach 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 prices starting from £21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 51m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £21, and a train costs an average of £44.
Distance: 239 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£63 Average Price | £39 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 21m Average total duration Fastest 3h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 25m Average total duration 10h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Bolton to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Bolton to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 17 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 23:08
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 04:54 Bolton | 3h57 | 08:51 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 04:55 Bolton | 5h30 | 10:25 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 08:54 Bolton | 3h58 | 12:52 Cardiff | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:54 Bolton | 3h52 | 17:46 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 train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
Wed
17 Dec
17 Dec
Thu
18 Dec
18 Dec
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19 Dec
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20 Dec
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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 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £44 but you can travel from only £21 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 20:48. The fastest train covers the 239 km distance in 3h 51m.
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 £21
Distance 239 km |
Average train duration 3h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price £44 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 3h 51m |
First train 04:08 |
Last train 20:48 |
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 £21
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, first_transpennine_express, Northern Rail (3) from Bolton to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, first_transpennine_express, Northern Rail (3) trains will get you between Bolton and Cardiff from £21. 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 Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
£32
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
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 Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest Price
£44
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
Northern Rail (3)
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 43m
Cheapest Price
£86
Northern Rail (3) frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
first_transpennine_express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 34m
Cheapest Price
£99
first_transpennine_express frequency
10 a day
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 £44, while the average price tends to be around £63.
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.
A day trip from Bolton to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 51m. However, there are 3 trains per day. The distance is 239 km.
The cheapest way to get from Bolton to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £21.
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.
The train distance from Bolton to Cardiff is 239 km.
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.
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 last train from Bolton to Cardiff departs at 20:48.
The train journey from Bolton to Cardiff covers a distance of 239 km and takes approximately 3h 51m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train station in Bolton that goes to Cardiff is Bolton station (BON), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
The first train from Bolton to Cardiff leaves at 4:08.
There is no night train service from Bolton to Cardiff.
Trains from Bolton to Cardiff run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bolton to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train 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 train and coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bolton and Cardiff
Bolton
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Bolton is Bolton. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bolton for your trip from Bolton to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:00 - 21:00 Sunday 08:15 - 19:30
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: Newsagent
Parking
- Car Park: Parking is not available.
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: A key is available from the Station Supervisor and at the News Stand upon request.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: platforms 3 & 4
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Bolton
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Newport Street stop, at stand AA
- Metro: GMPTE 0161 228 7811
Amenities at train station
ParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
2 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Public transport options for Hall I' Th' Wood
- Onward travel information: On Crompton Way for buses to Bolton or Halliwell. Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at bus stops on Crompton Way, under railway bridge (Nearside for Blackburn, Farside for Bolton)
- Metro: GMPTE 0161 228 7811
Amenities at train station
ParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday 06:25 - 19:35 Saturday,Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B station, Level access from car park (22 paces, 1:12 slope) and Booking office to Bolton/Manchester platform. For services to Preston, separate ramped access (96 paces, 1:10 slope) from Rumworth Road overbridge onto the platform.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Lostock
- Onward travel information: There are no bus stops at or nearby this station. Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up at the top of the station car park.
- Metro: GMPTE 0161 228 7811
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your journey to Cardiff from Bolton.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDining
ATMTaxisAccessibilityWC
Hotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B1. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Radyr) and Platform 2 (to Cardiff) from Waungron Road via ramps with handrails and a steep gradient. Access between the platforms is via the ramps and beneath the railway bridge on Waungron Road.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transport options for Waun-gron Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Waun Gron Road
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Distance to city center
7 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Rhymney) via a ramp with a steep gradient. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Cardiff) via Clos Llysfaen and a ramp with a shallow gradient. Access between the platforms is via a footbridge
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transport options for Lisvane & Thornhill
- Onward travel information: Visit Cardiff Bus (routes 85 and 86) for more details.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait on Cherry Orchard Road adjacent to station car park entrance
Most popular train connections from Bolton
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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