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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Bolton
Showing times and prices for 19 Dec
Cheapest price
£50
Average price
£55
Fastest journey
3 h 59 m
Average duration
4 h 7 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
239 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Bolton will cost around £55 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £50.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Cardiff for Bolton every day 5 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 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 59 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 20 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.
03:314h21
Cardiff07:52Bolton
£501One-way
0 changes
04:474h06
Cardiff08:53Bolton
£501One-way
0 changes
03:324h20
Cardiff07:52Bolton
£511One-way
0 changes
09:533h59
Cardiff13:52Bolton
£621One-way
0 changes
03:084h44
Cardiff07:52Bolton
£631One-way
0 changes
09:533h59
Cardiff13:52Bolton
£621One-way
0 changes
04:494h04
Cardiff08:53Bolton
£641One-way
0 changes
07:494h04
Cardiff11:53Bolton
£691One-way
0 changes
04:474h06
Cardiff08:53Bolton
£501One-way
0 changes
03:324h20
Cardiff07:52Bolton
£511One-way
0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Bolton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £36. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £36, and a train costs an average of £32.
Distance: 239 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£56 Average Price | £44 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 19m Average total duration Fastest 3h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 10m Average total duration 6h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cardiff to Bolton train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Bolton trains for tomorrow, Friday 19 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 12:59
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 03:08 Cardiff | 4h44 | 07:52 Bolton | 0 changesdirect | |
| 03:31 Cardiff | 4h21 | 07:52 Bolton | 0 changesdirect | |
| 03:32 Cardiff | 4h20 | 07:52 Bolton | 0 changesdirect | |
| 04:47 Cardiff | 4h06 | 08:53 Bolton | 0 changesdirect | |
| 04:49 Cardiff | 4h04 | 08:53 Bolton | 0 changesdirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Bolton 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.
Fri
19 Dec
19 Dec
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20 Dec
20 Dec
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22 Dec
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25 Dec
25 Dec
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Bolton run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £32 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:32, the last at 20:48. The fastest train covers the 239 km distance in 3h 59m.
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 239 km |
Average train duration 3h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price £32 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 3h 59m |
First train 04:32 |
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
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country from Cardiff to Bolton trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Bolton from £32. 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 59m
Cheapest Price
£32
Transport for Wales frequency
3 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 38m
Cheapest Price
£118
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 6m
Cheapest Price
£216
Cross Country frequency
8 a day
FAQs: Cardiff to Bolton train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Bolton 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 Bolton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
To fully enjoy Bolton's attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended, allowing time to explore local highlights such as the Bolton Museum, Smithills Hall, and nearby nature spots.
The train distance from Cardiff to Bolton is 239 km.
The train journey from Cardiff to Bolton covers a distance of 239 km and takes approximately 3h 59m. Trains run 3 per day.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Bolton in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The first train from Cardiff to Bolton leaves at 4:32.
The last train from Cardiff to Bolton departs at 20:48.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Bolton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £32, while the average price tends to be around £56.
Trains from Cardiff to Bolton run approximately 3 times per day.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Bolton is by train, costing approximately £32.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Bolton.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Bolton.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Bolton is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Bolton station (BON).
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Bolton.
To get from Cardiff to Bolton, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Bolton.
A day trip from Cardiff to Bolton is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 59m. Trains run 3 times per day.
The train journey from Cardiff to Bolton offers varied scenery, including the picturesque landscapes of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and charming towns in England.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Bolton
Cardiff
Bolton
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Bolton.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike 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
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) from Leckwith Road. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Radyr) Leckwith Road via a ramp with a steep gradient
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: The bicycle stands can be found on Platform 1 (to Cardiff).
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for Ninian Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Leckwith Road close to traffic lights
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
The major train station for arrivals in Bolton is Bolton. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Bolton for your journey to Bolton from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike 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
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bolton and Cardiff
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