Manchester to Bolton train with Northern Rail (3)

Fri 20 Feb
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Northern Rail (3)
TransPennine Express
first_transpennine_express
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
1,000+ travel companies
Northern Rail (3)
TransPennine Express
first_transpennine_express
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Bolton

Showing times and prices for 20 Feb

Cheapest price

£4

Average price

£4

Fastest journey

11 m

Average duration

15 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

17 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Manchester to Bolton will cost around £4 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £4.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Manchester for Bolton every day 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 17 km distance in an average of 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 11 m .

The slowest trains will take 19 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.

Northern Rail (3)L06529
08:330h16
Deansgate (DGT)
08:49Bolton station (BON)
£41One-way
0 changes
Northern Rail (3)L08262
08:080h13
Deansgate (DGT)
08:21Bolton station (BON)
£41One-way
0 changes
Northern Rail (3)L05435
08:090h22
Manchester Victoria (MCV)
08:31Bolton station (BON)
£41One-way
0 changes
Northern Rail (3)L08638
08:380h14
Deansgate (DGT)
08:52Bolton station (BON)
£41One-way
0 changes
Northern Rail (3)L10809
08:030h11
Deansgate (DGT)
08:14Bolton station (BON)
£51One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach and train for Manchester to Bolton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £1. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £1, and a coach costs an average of £4.

Distance: 17 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£3

Average Price

Cheapest

£4

Average Price

46m

Average total duration

Fastest

16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 7m

Average total duration

37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.0 - 0.0kg

CO2 emissions

Northern Rail (3)

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Manchester to Bolton train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Bolton trains for today, Thursday 19 February. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 15:08
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
northern_railL05442
On time
15:09 Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0h23
15:32 Bolton station (BON)
0 changesdirect
northern_railL09543
On time
15:15 Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0h20
15:35 Bolton station (BON)
0 changesdirect
northern_railL06555
On time
15:33 Deansgate (DGT)
0h16
15:49 Bolton station (BON)
0 changesdirect
northern_railL07268
On time
15:39 Deansgate (DGT)
0h13
15:52 Bolton station (BON)
0 changesdirect
Friday 20 February
northern_railL10809
On time
08:03 Deansgate (DGT)
0h11
08:14 Bolton station (BON)
0 changesdirect
northern_railL08262
On time
08:08 Deansgate (DGT)
0h13
08:21 Bolton station (BON)
0 changesdirect
northern_railL05435
On time
08:09 Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0h22
08:31 Bolton station (BON)
0 changesdirect
northern_railL09567
On time
08:15 Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0h19
08:34 Bolton station (BON)
0 changesdirect
northern_railL06529
On time
08:33 Deansgate (DGT)
0h16
08:49 Bolton station (BON)
0 changesdirect
northern_railL08638
On time
08:38 Deansgate (DGT)
0h14
08:52 Bolton station (BON)
0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Bolton 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.

Fri
20 Feb
Sat
21 Feb
Sun
22 Feb
Mon
23 Feb
Tue
24 Feb
Wed
25 Feb
Thu
26 Feb

Why should you book Manchester to Bolton trains with Omio?

Northern Rail (3) as well as TransPennine Express or first_transpennine_express offer trains services from Manchester to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Bolton.

Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail (3)?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail (3), but also compare tickets for the likes of TransPennine Express or first_transpennine_express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester 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.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Northern Rail (3) with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Bolton.

Why book with Omio over Trip or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of TransPennine Express or first_transpennine_express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Bolton.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Bolton.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Manchester to Bolton?

The best time to book your train from Manchester to Bolton is 5 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Manchester to Bolton route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Manchester to Bolton per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Manchester to Bolton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Bolton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to Bolton run on average 9 times per day, taking around 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £1 if you book in advance.

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 17 km distance in 12m.

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
17 km
Average train duration
16m
Cheapest ticket price
£1
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
9
Fastest train
12m
First train
00:02
Last train
23:55
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 (3), TransPennine Express, first_transpennine_express from Manchester to Bolton trainsNorthern Rail (3), TransPennine Express, first_transpennine_express trains will get you between Manchester and Bolton from £1. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
12m
Cheapest Price
£1
Northern Rail (3) frequency
9 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

TransPennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
TransPennine Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
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
12m
Cheapest Price
£20
first_transpennine_express frequency
7 a day

FAQs: Manchester to Bolton train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Bolton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £1, while the average price tends to be around £3.
The train journey from Manchester to Bolton covers a distance of 17 km and takes approximately 12m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Manchester to Bolton is 17 km.
The first train from Manchester to Bolton leaves at 0:02.
The last train from Manchester to Bolton departs at 23:55.
Trains from Manchester to Bolton run approximately 9 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Manchester to Bolton.
Yes, there is a direct train between Manchester and Bolton. The service operates 9 times per day, provided by Northern Rail (3), TransPennine Express, first_transpennine_express.
To get from Manchester to Bolton, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Manchester to Bolton.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Bolton is Manchester Oxford Road (MCO), and it arrives at Bolton station (BON).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Bolton is by train, costing approximately £1.
Booking trains from Manchester 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 Manchester to Bolton offers a mix of urban and suburban views, but it is not typically considered scenic compared to routes through the countryside.
Yes, a day trip from Manchester to Bolton is feasible. The journey takes 12m, covers 17 km, and trains run 8 times 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 Manchester to Bolton.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Bolton

Manchester
Bolton
The major train station for departures in Manchester is Manchester Oxford Road. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester Oxford Road for your trip from Manchester to Bolton.
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:40 Sunday 07:30 - 22:00
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: No
  • Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all
  • 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: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: There will be no toilet provision at Manchester Oxford Road from 15th July to 25th July to allow for existing toilets to be refurbished
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: on Platform 4/5
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Manchester Oxford Road
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the bus stops on Whitworth St West (200 yards from station) (station side for Liverpool, opposite side for Piccadilly)
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:00 Sunday 08:00 - 22:15
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category A station, Scooter Friendly Station - Step free access around the whole station via use of lifts between platforms 3-6, connection with Manchester Metrolink using ramps
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards Located near the ticket office.
  • 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
WC
  • Toilets Location: A key is available in the Duty's Manager's office.
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: on platform and approach
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Manchester Victoria
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick up point is on Station Approach (M3 1WY) directly outside the station main entrance, outside the M & S shop.​​​​​​​
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
  • Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • Caffè Nero
  • Carluccio’s
  • Hotel Chocolat
  • Starbucks
  • The Pasty Shop
  • Costa Coffee
  • Pret a Manger
  • Upper Crust
  • McDonald's
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Hotel
Hotel
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly
  • Premier Inn Manchester City
  • Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
  • Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Public transport options for Manchester Piccadilly
  • Bus lines: 1, 2, 3, 147
  • Train lines: Northern, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales

More options for your journey from Manchester to Bolton

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Bolton Manchester to Bolton train

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