- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland’s flagship museum covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bolton to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$77
Average price
$77
Fastest journey
9 h 35 m
Average duration
9 h 40 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
268 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bolton to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bolton to Edinburgh will cost around $77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $77.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Bolton to Edinburgh without transferring at least 2 times.
NX540 · NX170 · NX5918:50 AM9h45Bolton, Astley Bridge6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$771One-way2 transfers- NX540 · NX170 · NX5919:00 AM9h35Bolton, Interchange6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$781One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX170 · NX5919:00 AM9h35Bolton, Interchange6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$781One-way2 transfers
- NX540 · NX170 · NX5918:50 AM9h45Bolton, Astley Bridge6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$771One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bolton to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bolton to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a flight costs an average of $136.
Distance: 166 miles (268 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$60 Average price Cheapest | $81 Average price | $208 Average price | $115 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 11m Average total duration 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 53m Average total duration Fastest 3h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 19m Average total duration 5h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | 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 Bolton to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $60 (€49).
This is compared to other travel options from Bolton to Edinburgh:
A bus is $22 (€18) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bolton to Edinburgh costing on average $81 (€67).
A bus is $148 (€121) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bolton to Edinburgh costing on average $208 (€170).
The fastest way to travel from Bolton to Edinburgh is by train with an average journey time of 3h 23m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Flight takes on average 5h 19m.
Bus takes on average 5h 41m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bolton and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bolton to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Bolton to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 12h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35AM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:05PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 11:33PM | Duration 7h23 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Live departures
Bolton to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bolton to Edinburgh buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX540 · NX170 · NX183 | On time 8:30 AM Bolton, Astley Bridge | 12h10 | 8:40 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX170 · NX183 | On time 8:30 AM Bolton, Astley Bridge | 12h10 | 8:40 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX170 · NX183 | On time 8:45 AM Bolton, Interchange | 11h55 | 8:40 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX170 · NX183 | On time 8:45 AM Bolton, Interchange | 11h55 | 8:40 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bolton to Edinburgh by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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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Why should you book Bolton to Edinburgh buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Bolton to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bolton to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bolton to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bolton to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bolton to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Bolton to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:23, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 166 miles (268 km) distance in 7h 5m.
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 166 miles (268 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€15) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 7h 5m |
First bus 12:23 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 42 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
Bus providers: FlixBus from Bolton to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Bolton to Edinburgh with FlixBus for as low as $19 (€15). 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
7h 5m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
FlixBus frequency
10 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.
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
Scottish National Gallery
Major national art gallery on The Mound with Scottish and European masterpieces. Central, elegant and one of Edinburgh’s classic cultural stops.
- Recommended
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history and culture. Well regarded for both the collection and the building itself.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, courtyards, shops and major sights.
- Must visit
Calton Hill
One of Edinburgh’s essential viewpoints, especially popular for sunrise and sunset photography. Famous for sweeping views over the city and Arthur’s Seat.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Ancient volcanic peak in Holyrood Park with the city’s most famous hike and outstanding panoramic views. A classic outdoor Edinburgh experience.
- Gluten-free
Haggis, Neeps And Tatties
Scotland’s best-known national dish: a peppery savoury pudding traditionally made with oats and offal, served with mashed turnips and potatoes. It is strongly associated with Edinburgh and Burns supps
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Though from Cullen, it is a classic on Edinburgh menus and a comforting local staple
Scotch Broth
A traditional hearty soup of barley, root vegetables and usually lamb or mutton. It is a long-standing Scottish comfort food commonly found in pubs and cafes
The Scran & Scallie
A polished gastropub from Tom Kitchin, known for refined Scottish pub classics, seasonal produce and a warm neighbourhood atmosphere
Mussel Inn Seafood Restaurant
A long-established seafood restaurant popular for Scottish mussels, fish dishes and a relaxed city-centre setting
Ondine
A respected upscale seafood restaurant focused on high-quality Scottish fish and shellfish in an elegant contemporary space
Pound sterling
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities, especially for hotels and dining in the centre during peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Rounding up is common in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service.
Transport for Edinburgh
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Edinburgh Bus Station, Edinburgh -> Edinburgh Waverley Station, Edinburgh
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap on and tap off with the same contactless card or device on Lothian buses and trams for capped daily fares. Card payment is accepted on board.
- A Dayticket usually offers better value than multiple single fares if you make three or more journeys in one day.
FAQs: Bus from Bolton to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bolton to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Bolton to Edinburgh can start from as little as $19 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bolton to Edinburgh is $60 (€49) ; 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 Bolton to Edinburgh is 7h 5m to travel the 166 miles (268 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 Bolton to Edinburgh leaves at 12:23 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bolton to Edinburgh leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Bolton to Edinburgh which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Bolton to Edinburgh, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bolton and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Bolton , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, Bolton, Astley Bridge, Bolton, Interchange . When arriving in Edinburgh , you can end your journey in bus stations like Edinburgh, Bus Station, Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB), Edinburgh, St Andrew's House, Edinburgh, Drum Brae South, Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF), Edinburgh, North St David Street / St Andrew Square .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Edinburgh, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Edinburgh from Bolton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bolton to Edinburgh is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bolton and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bolton to Edinburgh:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bolton to Edinburgh for bus company FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Edinburgh are:
- Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and housing the Crown Jewels
- Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano providing hiking trails and a vantage point over Edinburgh
- The Royal Mile, a historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, lined with shops and landmarks
- Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, featuring beautiful gardens and historic architecture
- The National Museum of Scotland, a museum showcasing Scottish history, culture, and natural history through diverse exhibits.
The best things to do in Edinburgh include:
- Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, a historic marketplace with pubs, shops, and street performances
- Enjoy a ghost tour through the haunted streets and underground vaults of Edinburgh
- Attend a performance at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, known for its diverse range of shows
- Visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, offering beautiful landscapes and plant collections
- Discover the hidden gems and local art at the Stockbridge Market.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bolton to Edinburgh depends on the bus companies:
- 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 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 Bolton to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bolton to Edinburgh:
- 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 Bolton to Edinburgh:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Bolton to Edinburgh. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bolton to Edinburgh with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bolton to Edinburgh with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bolton to Edinburgh with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Bolton nor Edinburgh 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 Bolton to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
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 Bolton to Edinburgh
Most Bolton to Edinburgh buses use the Manchester, Shudehill Interchange to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House. Use this guide to compare Bolton and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Bolton
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Which Bolton station do buses to Edinburgh leave from?
Buses from Bolton to Edinburgh leave from Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. The station is from Bolton city centre at Shudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United Kingdom.
Bolton, Astley Bridge
City-centre transport
Getting to Bolton, Astley Bridge from Bolton city centre
Bus1 · 4m · $2 · every ~17 min
1 · 4m · $2 · every ~17 min
Bolton, Interchange
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
Which Edinburgh station do buses from Bolton arrive at?
Buses from Bolton to Edinburgh most often arrive at Edinburgh, Bus Station. Some services arrive at {secondaryArrivalStation}, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Edinburgh arrival station.
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre
Bus10, 11 · 2m · $2 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · $1 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · $5 · every ~38 min
Edinburgh, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Edinburgh, St Andrew's HouseEdinburgh EH7 5BN, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, St Andrew's House from Edinburgh city centre
BusX19, 43, X18, X27, X28 · 6m · $2 · every ~36 min
15, 26, 44, X26 · 7m · $1 · every ~40 min
Uk090 · 8m · $1 · every ~1 min
Uk090 · 8m · $1 · every ~15 min
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Edinburgh, North St David Street / St Andrew Square
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, North St David Street / St Andrew Square from Edinburgh city centre
Bus10, 11 · 4m · $2 · every ~30 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 5m · $5 · every ~38 min
Most popular bus connections from Bolton
More options for your journey from Bolton to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Bolton
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