Birmingham to Bolton bus with National Express

Sun, Jun 21
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Birmingham to Bolton

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$18

Average price

$26

Fastest journey

3 h 10 m

Average duration

3 h 42 m

Buses per day

3

Distance

128 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Birmingham to Bolton will cost around $26 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.

Fast buses

Of the 3 buses that leave Birmingham for Bolton on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 128 km distance in an average of 3 h 42 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 10 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 4 h 5 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.

  • National Express
    3:25 AM3h10
    Birmingham
    6:35 AMBolton
    $181One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    5:10 PM4h05
    Birmingham
    9:15 PMBolton
    $251One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    3:00 PM3h50
    Birmingham
    6:50 PMBolton
    $341One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Birmingham to Bolton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 53m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, and a train costs an average of $19.

Distance: 79 miles (128 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$22

Average price

Cheapest

$52

Average price

$46

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 59m

Average total duration

2h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 51m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from Birmingham to Bolton is a bus with an average price of $22 (€18).

This is compared to other travel options from Birmingham to Bolton:

A bus is $30 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Birmingham to Bolton costing on average $52 (€43).

The fastest way to travel from Birmingham to Bolton is by train with an average journey time of 1h 53m.

Other travel options to Bolton take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 29m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham and Bolton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Bolton among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.

Tickets start at around $22 (€18) compared to roughly $46 (€37) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $24 (€20). The journey takes 2h 29m versus 1h 51m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.

Direct services are operated by National Express, Megabus.

Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.

Birmingham to Bolton Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:25AM
Arrival Time
06:35AM
Duration
3h10
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:50PM
Arrival Time
06:55PM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:00PM
Arrival Time
06:50PM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05PM
Arrival Time
07:35PM
Duration
4h30
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$20
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:20PM
Arrival Time
08:20PM
Duration
5h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:10PM
Arrival Time
09:15PM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:10PM
Arrival Time
10:15PM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:00PM
Arrival Time
10:35PM
Duration
3h35
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$20

Live departures

Birmingham to Bolton bus times

The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Bolton buses for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express3:25 AM Birmingham
3h10
6:35 AM Bolton0 transfersDirect
National Express3:00 PM Birmingham
3h50
6:50 PM Bolton0 transfersDirect
National Express5:10 PM Birmingham
4h05
9:15 PM Bolton0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Birmingham to Bolton by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Birmingham to Bolton buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus or Megabus offer buses services from Birmingham to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Bolton.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Bolton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

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

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Birmingham to Bolton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Birmingham to Bolton run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 29m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $13 (€10) if you book in advance.

There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 79 miles (128 km) distance in 2h 30m.

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
79 miles (128 km)
Average bus duration
2h 29m
Cheapest ticket price
$13 (€10)
Buses per day
3
Direct buses
2
Fastest bus
2h 30m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
1 day
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

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus from Birmingham to BoltonYou can travel by bus between Birmingham to Bolton with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus for as low as $13 (€10). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 30m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
FlixBus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€10)
National Express frequency
14 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.

Megabus

About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€14)
Megabus frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.

FAQs: Bus from Birmingham to Bolton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Bolton by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Bolton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Birmingham to Bolton can start from as little as $13 (€10) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Birmingham to Bolton is $22 (€18) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Birmingham to Bolton is 2h 30m to travel the 79 miles (128 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Birmingham to Bolton leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Birmingham to Bolton leaves at 11:40 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Birmingham to Bolton with National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Birmingham to Bolton, you can count on National Express, FlixBus, Megabus for the best way to get you to Bolton. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Birmingham and Bolton and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Birmingham , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Birmingham, Coach Station, Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway, Birmingham, Brunel Street, Birmingham, Comet Road (Airport) . When arriving in Bolton , you can end your journey in bus stations like Bolton, Interchange, Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, Bolton, Astley Bridge, Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East, Warrington, Winwick Street (Bus Interchange) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Birmingham, Coach Station, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Bolton from Birmingham is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Birmingham to Bolton is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham and Bolton including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Birmingham to Bolton for bus company National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Birmingham to Bolton:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Birmingham to Bolton depends on the bus companies:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
  • National Express
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Birmingham to Bolton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Birmingham to Bolton:
  • Megabus
    • One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Birmingham to Bolton:
  • Megabus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Birmingham to Bolton. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Birmingham to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Birmingham to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Birmingham to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Since neither Birmingham nor Bolton are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Bolton among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Bolton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in busy areas such as markets and public transport hubs. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and stay aware of surroundings, especially at night.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Birmingham to Bolton

Most Birmingham to Bolton buses use the Birmingham, Coach Station to Bolton, Interchange station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Bolton bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Birmingham
Arrival bus stations in Bolton

Which Birmingham station do buses to Bolton leave from?

Buses from Birmingham to Bolton leave from Birmingham, Coach Station. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Birmingham city centre at Mill Lane, Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 6DD, United Kingdom.
Birmingham, Coach StationMill Lane, Digbeth, Birmingham, B5 6DD, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham, Coach Station from Birmingham city centre

Birmingham, Coach Station is 1 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus4, 97, 6, X2, 3, 97A, 2, 4A, 5, X1 · 4m · $2 · every ~191 min
X2, 4A, X1, 2, 3, 6, 4, 5 · 13m · $2 · every ~149 min

Birmingham, Coach Station bus station facilities and services

Birmingham, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafeteria and fast-food options inside the station

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Birmingham, Coach Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.

Birmingham, Great Charles Street QueenswayBirmingham Great Charles Street Queensway, Great Charles Street Queensway 145, B3 3LT
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway from Birmingham city centre

Bus822, X8, 12, 24, 126, 13, 23, X10, 829, 9 · 2m · $2 · every ~153 min
Birmingham, Brunel StreetBirmingham Brunel Street, Brunel Street, B5 4AF

Most popular bus connections to Bolton

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