- Recommended
Bolton Museum and Art Gallery
Bolton's main museum and gallery with local history, archaeology, art, and aquarium displays in a central civic building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Birmingham to Bolton
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$23
Average price
$29
Fastest journey
3 h 10 m
Average duration
4 h 20 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 $29 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Birmingham for Bolton on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 128 km distance in an average of 4 h 20 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 10 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 5 h 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.
NX541 · NX5403:20 PM5h00Birmingham, Coach Station8:20 PMBolton, Astley Bridge$231One-way1 transfer- NX541 · NX5403:20 PM4h50Birmingham, Coach Station8:10 PMBolton, Interchange$241One-way1 transfer
- NX4243:25 AM3h10Birmingham, Coach Station6:35 AMBolton, Interchange$411One-way0 transfers
- NX4243:25 AM3h10Birmingham, Coach Station6:35 AMBolton, Interchange$411One-way0 transfers
- NX541 · NX5403:20 PM4h50Birmingham, Coach Station8:10 PMBolton, Interchange$241One-way1 transfer
- NX541 · NX5403:20 PM5h00Birmingham, Coach Station8:20 PMBolton, Astley Bridge$231One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Birmingham to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
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 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 |
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
Birmingham to Bolton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $18 |
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 Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $15 |
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, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX424 | 3:25 AM Birmingham, Coach Station | 3h10 | 6:35 AM Bolton, Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX541 · NX540 | 3:20 PM Birmingham, Coach Station | 5h00 | 8:20 PM Bolton, Astley Bridge | 1 transfer | |
| NX541 · NX540 | 3:20 PM Birmingham, Coach Station | 4h50 | 8:10 PM Bolton, Interchange | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
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. 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
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
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
$17
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.
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
Hall i' th' Wood Museum
Independent heritage museum exploring workers' lives, social history, and the district's industrial communities.
- Recommended
Smithills Hall
Restored country house museum with period rooms, collections, and family-friendly interpretation of Bolton's past.
- Must visit
Rivington Terraced Gardens
Historic landscaped hillside with paths, follies, and broad views; one of the area's most loved walking destinations.
- Must visit
Rivington Country Park
Major country park around reservoirs and moorland, ideal for scenic walks, cycling, and panoramic viewpoints.
- Recommended
Winter Hill
Popular upland walking area with sweeping views from Winter Hill and access to moorland trails above Bolton.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
A hearty Lancashire hotpot of lamb or mutton, onions and potatoes, slow-cooked in one pot. It is a classic Greater Manchester and Lancashire comfort dish.
Meat And Potato Pie
A flaky pastry pie filled with seasoned minced beef and onion. Strongly associated with nearby Wigan and widely loved across Bolton and Greater Manchester.
Rag Pudding
A suet pudding of beef and onion steamed in cloth or a basin. This old Lancashire staple is traditional in local pubs and family kitchens.
Spice Valley
Well-regarded Indian restaurant known for polished service, stylish interiors and refined curries and grills. Suitable for a more upscale meal in Bolton.
Ciao Napoli
Established casual restaurant serving Turkish and Mediterranean grills, meze and flatbreads in a lively modern setting.
The Bob Smithy Inn
Popular traditional pub and dining venue beside Moss Bank Park, known for cask ales, British classics and a relaxed local atmosphere.
British pound sterling (£)
Bolton is generally cheaper than London and many major UK cities, with lower hotel, dining, and local transport costs for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £6-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city center
Bolton Interchange -> Bolton Town Hall
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Bee Network buses, with daily fare capping available on contactless journeys.
- Bolton rail and bus services are coordinated through Bolton Interchange; use the Bee Network app for tickets, live departures, and journey planning.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Birmingham to Bolton can start from as little as $13 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Birmingham to Bolton is $22 ; 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), Birmingham . 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.
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, 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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Birmingham to Bolton for bus company National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
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.
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 Kingdom
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 QueenswayGreat Charles Street Queensway, Birmingham, UK
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, Great Charles Street Queensway bus station facilities and services
Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway. ATMs are available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham, Great Charles Street Queensway: Bus stops are wheelchair accessible.
Birmingham, Brunel StreetBirmingham Brunel Street, Brunel Street, B5 4AF
Which Bolton station do buses from Birmingham arrive at?
Buses from Birmingham to Bolton most often arrive at Bolton, Interchange. Some services arrive at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bolton arrival station.
Bolton, InterchangeBolton Market, Bolton BL1 1SX, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Bolton, Interchange from Bolton city centre
Bus576, 535, 525, 526, 507, 561, 562, 575, 527, 534, 537, 541, 533, 480 · 6m · $2 · every ~79 min
576, 575 · 7m · $2 · every ~20 min
125 · 8m · $11 · every ~16 min
Bolton, Interchange bus station facilities and services
Bolton, Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Cafes and fast food available inside.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bolton, Interchange. ATMs are aTM available near the ticket office.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bolton, Interchange.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bolton, Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bolton, Interchange: Facility is wheelchair accessible.
Bolton, Astley BridgeAstley Bridge, Bolton, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Bolton, Astley Bridge from Bolton city centre
Bolton, Astley Bridge is 1 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1 · 4m · $2 · every ~17 min
1 · 4m · $2 · every ~17 min
Bolton, Astley Bridge bus station facilities and services
Bolton, Astley Bridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bolton, Astley Bridge. ATMs are available at Bolton, Astley Bridge.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bolton, Astley Bridge.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bolton, Astley Bridge: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bolton, Astley Bridge: Basic accessibility options like ramps are available.
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bolton and Birmingham
Most popular bus connections to Bolton
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