- Must visit
Bolton Museum and Art Gallery
Bolton's main museum with local history, art, Egyptology and aquarium displays, all close to the town centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chester to Bolton
Showing times and prices for 13 Aug
Cheapest price
£13
Average price
£23
Fastest journey
1 h 29 m
Average duration
1 h 31 m
Trains per day
18
Distance
53 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chester to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chester to Bolton will cost around £23 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.
Fast trains
To travel from Chester to Bolton you need to make at least one change.
L89029 · G890457:562h12Chester station (CTR)10:08Bolton station (BON)£131One-way1 change
G38533+G8956617:521h29Chester station (CTR)19:21Bolton station (BON)£141One-way1 change- G38533+
W34287+P2881117:521h33Chester station (CTR)19:25Bolton station (BON)£141One-way2 changes - G38533+G8957117:522h00Chester station (CTR)19:52Bolton station (BON)£141One-way1 change
- G38533+P28740+
A2509317:521h39Chester station (CTR)19:31Bolton station (BON)£141One-way2 changes
- G38533+G8956617:521h29Chester station (CTR)19:21Bolton station (BON)£141One-way1 change
- G38514+G895738:521h29Chester station (CTR)10:21Bolton station (BON)£281One-way1 change
- G38512+G895647:521h29Chester station (CTR)9:21Bolton station (BON)£281One-way1 change
- G38533+W34287+P2881117:521h33Chester station (CTR)19:25Bolton station (BON)£141One-way2 changes
- G38512+W34046+P287877:521h33Chester station (CTR)9:25Bolton station (BON)£281One-way2 changes
Live departures
Chester to Bolton train times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Bolton trains for tomorrow, Thursday 13 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L89019 · G89560 | 6:48 Chester station (CTR) | 2h04 | 8:52 Bolton station (BON) | 1 change | |
| G38508+G89560 | 6:52 Chester station (CTR) | 2h00 | 8:52 Bolton station (BON) | 1 change | |
| G38685 · G38943+G89560 | 6:58 Chester station (CTR) | 1h54 | 8:52 Bolton station (BON) | 2 changes | |
| W34252 · W34204+G89564 | 7:32 Chester station (CTR) | 1h49 | 9:21 Bolton station (BON) | 2 changes | |
| G38512+W34046+P28787 | 7:52 Chester station (CTR) | 1h33 | 9:25 Bolton station (BON) | 2 changes | |
| G38512+A25075+P28637 | 7:52 Chester station (CTR) | 1h39 | 9:31 Bolton station (BON) | 2 changes | |
| G38512+G89569 | 7:52 Chester station (CTR) | 2h01 | 9:53 Bolton station (BON) | 1 change | |
| G38512+G89564 | 7:52 Chester station (CTR) | 1h29 | 9:21 Bolton station (BON) | 1 change | |
| L89029 · G89045 | 7:56 Chester station (CTR) | 2h12 | 10:08 Bolton station (BON) | 1 change | |
| G38688 · Y62730+G89569 | 7:58 Chester station (CTR) | 1h55 | 9:53 Bolton station (BON) | 2 changes | |
 C07929+A25074+P28647 | 8:07 Chester station (CTR) | 2h24 | 10:31 Bolton station (BON) | 2 changes | |
| C07931+A25074+P28647 | 8:31 Chester station (CTR) | 2h00 | 10:31 Bolton station (BON) | 2 changes | |
| G38514+G89573 | 8:52 Chester station (CTR) | 1h29 | 10:21 Bolton station (BON) | 1 change | |
| W34272 · W33873+G89566 | 17:31 Chester station (CTR) | 1h50 | 19:21 Bolton station (BON) | 2 changes | |
| G38533+A25093+P28740 | 17:52 Chester station (CTR) | 1h39 | 19:31 Bolton station (BON) | 2 changes | |
| G38533+G89571 | 17:52 Chester station (CTR) | 2h00 | 19:52 Bolton station (BON) | 1 change | |
| G38533+W34287+P28811 | 17:52 Chester station (CTR) | 1h33 | 19:25 Bolton station (BON) | 2 changes | |
| G38533+G89566 | 17:52 Chester station (CTR) | 1h29 | 19:21 Bolton station (BON) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chester to Bolton 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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13 Aug
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Fri
14 Aug
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Sat
15 Aug
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Sun
16 Aug
16 Aug
Mon
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Tue
18 Aug
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Wed
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19 Aug
Why should you book Chester to Bolton trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Chester to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Bolton.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Chester to Bolton.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Trip or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Chester to Bolton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chester to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chester to Bolton run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £6 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:51, the last at 23:21. The fastest train covers the 53 km distance in 1h 29m.
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 53 km |
Average train duration 1h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 1h 29m |
First train 3:51 |
Last train 23:21 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 14 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: Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited from Chester to Bolton trainsNorthern Rail, Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Chester and Bolton from £6. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Northern Rail
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
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
£6
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
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
1h 29m
Cheapest Price
£17
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
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
£14
Northern Trains Limited frequency
11 a day
Complete guide to Bolton
Things to do in Bolton
Discover the best of Bolton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bolton trip today.
- Recommended
Bolton Steam Museum
Independent museum telling the story of local steam, electricity and engineering through working exhibits and volunteer guides.
- Recommended
Hall i' th' Wood Museum
Art gallery and museum in a former house, showing decorative arts, paintings and objects linked to local collecting history.
- Must visit
Smithills Estate
Large country park with moorland views, reservoirs, walking trails and access to one of Bolton's best-known hilltop panoramas.
- Recommended
Jumbles Country Park
Popular beauty spot with a reservoir, woodland paths and open moor walks, well suited to gentle strolls or longer hikes.
- Recommended
Barrow Bridge
Historic village area with cobbled character, old buildings and scenic access to museum grounds and woodland walks.
- Gluten-free
Bury Black Pudding
A hearty black pudding made in nearby Bury from pig’s blood, fat and oats. It is a defining Greater Manchester breakfast staple.
- Vegetarian
Chip Barm
Soft bread rolls split and filled with buttered chips, often with salt and vinegar. A classic North West cheap eat loved in Bolton.
Meat and Potato Pie
A savoury pie from nearby Wigan filled traditionally with potato, onion and meat. It reflects Lancashire’s working-class baking heritage.
Cezar's Kitchen
Popular Turkish restaurant serving charcoal-grilled meats, mezze and fresh bread in a smart but relaxed setting.
Achari
Well-known local Indian restaurant with curries, tandoori dishes and a comfortable neighbourhood dining room.
Rice 'N' Spice
Refined Indian dining with regional dishes and attentive service, suited to a more polished evening meal.
Pound sterling (£)
Bolton is usually cheaper than Manchester or London for hotels, meals and local travel, making it good value for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is typical for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city centre
Bolton Station -> Bolton Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card and device payment works on Bee Network buses for tickets up to £10.
- The adult hopper ticket is valid for unlimited Bee Network bus changes within 60 min of purchase.
FAQs: Chester to Bolton train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Chester to Bolton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £6, while the average price tends to be around £12.
The train journey from Chester to Bolton covers a distance of 53 km and takes approximately 1h 29m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Chester to Bolton is 53 km.
The first train from Chester to Bolton leaves at 3:51.
The last train from Chester to Bolton departs at 23:21.
Trains from Chester to Bolton run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chester to Bolton.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chester to Bolton.
To travel from Chester to Bolton, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Chester to Bolton.
The train station in Chester that goes to Bolton is Chester station (CTR), and it arrives at Bolton station (BON).
The cheapest way to get from Chester to Bolton is by train, costing approximately £6.
Booking trains from Chester to Bolton in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Chester to Bolton offers views of the picturesque Cheshire countryside and the rolling hills of Greater Manchester, providing a pleasant and scenic travel experience.
Yes, a day trip from Chester to Bolton is feasible, with a travel time of 1h 29m and a distance of 53 km. There are 5 train trips available per day.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Chester to Bolton.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chester and Bolton
Most Chester to Bolton trains use the Chester to Bolton station pair, with some services arriving at Lostock. Use this guide to compare Chester and Bolton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chester
Arrival train stations in Bolton
Which Chester station do trains to Bolton leave from?
Trains from Chester to Bolton leave from Chester. The station is 1 km from Chester city centre at Chester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · £4 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, 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 toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Bolton station do trains from Chester arrive at?
Trains from Chester to Bolton most often arrive at Bolton. Some services arrive at Lostock, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bolton arrival station.
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.
LostockLostock station, Rumworth Road, Lostock, Greater Manchester, BL6 4JP+44 8002006060
City-centre transport
Getting to Lostock from Bolton city centre
Lostock is 4 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainManchester Airport - Blackpool North, Manchester Oxford Road - Blackpool North, Manchester Airport - Preston, Bolton - Corkickle, Bolton - Blackpool North, Bolton - Barrow-in-Furness, Bolton - Millom, Bolton - Windermere, Stockport - Blackpool North · 4m · £2 · every ~4 min
Bus905, 930, 520 · 19m · £2 · every ~6 min
576, 575 · 21m · £2 · every ~20 min
Lostock train station facilities and services
Lostock has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lostock.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lostock: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Lostock: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lostock: 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.
Bromley CrossBromley Cross station, Chapeltown Road, Bromley Cross, Lancashire, BL7 9AG+44 8002006060
City-centre transport
Getting to Bromley Cross from Bolton city centre
Bromley Cross is 3 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRochdale - Clitheroe, Rochdale - Blackburn, Bolton - Clitheroe, Bolton - Blackburn, Manchester Victoria - Blackburn, Manchester Victoria - Clitheroe, Rochdale - Ribblehead, Bolton - Ribblehead · 8m · £2 · every ~4 min
Bus541, 533 · 16m · £2 · every ~10 min
541 · 26m · £2 · every ~6 min
Bromley Cross train station facilities and services
Bromley Cross has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bromley Cross.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bromley Cross: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bromley Cross: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bromley Cross: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B station, To Manchester : Level access from the car park over level crossing and up ramp onto platform. To Blackburn : Level access from the car park, through a 4ft wide gate, up a short ramp (1:9 slope) onto the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: The highest operating part of the telephone is 1140 mm above floor level, 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.
More options for your journey from Chester to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bolton and Chester
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