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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Bolton
Showing times and prices for 25 Dec
Cheapest price
£3
Average price
£3
Fastest journey
13 m
Average duration
13 m
Trains per day
5
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 £3 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £3.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Manchester 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 17 km distance in an average of 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 m .
The slowest trains will take 14 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.
06:330h16
Manchester06:49Bolton
£31One-way
0 changes
08:090h22
Manchester08:31Bolton
£31One-way
0 changes
17:330h16
Manchester17:49Bolton
£31One-way
0 changes
22:140h18
Manchester22:32Bolton
£31One-way
0 changes
22:380h13
Manchester22:51Bolton
£41One-way
0 changes
22:380h13
Manchester22:51Bolton
£41One-way
0 changes
06:390h13
Manchester06:52Bolton
£41One-way
0 changes
08:080h13
Manchester08:21Bolton
£41One-way
0 changes
21:240h14
Manchester21:38Bolton
£41One-way
0 changes
17:390h14
Manchester17:53Bolton
£41One-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 £2. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 18m. 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 £2, and a coach costs an average of £4.
Distance: 17 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£3 Average Price Cheapest | £6 Average Price |
48m Average total duration Fastest 18m 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 |
Most popular train company |  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, Wednesday 24 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 11:18
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L07969 | Delayed 00:09 00:09Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 0h13 | 00:22 00:22Bolton station (BON) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 25 December | |||||
| 08:09 Manchester | 0h22 | 08:31 Bolton | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
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.
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25 Dec
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31 Dec
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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.
Trains
from £3Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Bolton run on average 8 times per day, taking around 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £2 if you book in advance.
There are 8 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 18m |
Cheapest ticket price £2 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 8 |
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), first_transpennine_express from Manchester to Bolton trainsNorthern Rail (3), first_transpennine_express trains will get you between Manchester and Bolton from £2. 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
8 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
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.
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, there is a direct train between Manchester and Bolton. The service operates 8 times per day, provided by Northern Rail (3), first_transpennine_express.
Yes, a day trip from Manchester to Bolton is feasible. The journey takes 12m, covers 17 km, and trains run 8 times per day.
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.
To get from Manchester to Bolton, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Manchester to Bolton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £2, while the average price tends to be around £3.
The train distance from Manchester to Bolton is 17 km.
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Bolton is by train, costing approximately £2.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Bolton is Manchester Oxford Road (MCO), and it arrives at Bolton station (BON).
The train journey from Manchester to Bolton covers a distance of 17 km and takes approximately 12m. Trains run 8 per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Manchester to Bolton.
The first train from Manchester to Bolton leaves at 0:02.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Bolton.
The last train from Manchester to Bolton departs at 23:55.
Trains from Manchester to Bolton run approximately 8 times per day.
There is no night train service 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
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:40 Sunday 07:30 - 22:00
Parking
- Car Park: No
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
- 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
- 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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Address
Manchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WYTicket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:00 Sunday 08:00 - 22:15
Parking
- Car Park: No
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
- Toilets Location: A key is available in the Duty's Manager's office.
- Baby changing facilities: No
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
Wifi
LockersParkingDining
ATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Wifi
- Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi.
Lockers
- Operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Dining
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Carluccio’s
- Hotel Chocolat
- Starbucks
- The Pasty Shop
- Costa Coffee
- Pret a Manger
- Upper Crust
- McDonald's
- & more
Accessibility
- There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly
- Premier Inn Manchester City
- Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
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
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 Manchester.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCLost 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
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
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bolton and Manchester
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