Bolton to Leicester bus with National Express

Mon, Aug 31
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bolton to Leicester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 31

Cheapest price on Aug 31

$24

Average ticket price on Aug 31

$31

Fastest journey on Aug 31

5 h 50 m

Average journey duration on Aug 31

6 h 52 m

Buses on Aug 31

9

Distance

136 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bolton to Leicester will cost around $31 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Bolton to Leicester without transferring at least once.

  • National ExpressNX540 · NX541 · NX151
    8:50 AM7h25
    Bolton, Astley Bridge
    4:15 PMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    $241One-way
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX541 · NX151
    9:00 AM7h15
    Bolton, Interchange
    4:15 PMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    $261One-way
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX590 · NX150
    12:10 PM7h15
    Bolton, Astley Bridge
    7:25 PMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    $271One-way
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX121 · NX150
    12:10 PM7h15
    Bolton, Astley Bridge
    7:25 PMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    $271One-way
    2 transfers
  • National ExpressNX540 · NX121 · NX151
    8:50 AM7h25
    Bolton, Astley Bridge
    4:15 PMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
    $281One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bolton to Leicester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bolton to Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $31 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 38m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $31, while a train costs an average of $63.

Distance: 84 miles (136 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$31

Average price

Cheapest

$63

Average price

$38

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 26m

Average total duration

3h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 38m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 22m

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

East Midlands Railway

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 Bolton to Leicester is a bus with an average price of $31 (€25).

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

A bus is $32 (€26) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bolton to Leicester costing on average $63 (€51).

The fastest way to travel from Bolton to Leicester is by train with an average journey time of 2h 8m.

Other travel options to Leicester take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 56m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bolton and Leicester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bolton to Leicester 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 $31 (€25) compared to roughly $38 (€31) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $8 (€6). The journey takes 3h 56m versus 2h 22m 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 FlixBus.

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.

Bolton to Leicester Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:25AM
Arrival Time
03:15PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:50AM
Arrival Time
04:15PM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
04:15PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:20AM
Arrival Time
06:25PM
Duration
9h05
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:20AM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
9h05
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:30AM
Arrival Time
06:25PM
Duration
7h55
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$39
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:35AM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$36
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
7h55
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:10PM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:25PM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:25PM
Arrival Time
11:15PM
Duration
7h50
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$36
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:50PM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
3h35
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:05PM
Arrival Time
01:15AM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:30PM
Arrival Time
01:05AM
Duration
3h35
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:15PM
Arrival Time
04:05AM
Duration
5h50
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:15PM
Arrival Time
05:05AM
Duration
5h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$34

Live departures

Bolton to Leicester bus times

The table below shows live departures for Bolton to Leicester buses for today, Sunday, August 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus9:30 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
3h35
1:05 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus9:30 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
5h10
2:40 AM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)1 transfer
Monday, August 31
National ExpressNX540 · NX121 · NX1518:50 AM Bolton, Astley Bridge
7h25
4:15 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX541 · NX1518:50 AM Bolton, Astley Bridge
7h25
4:15 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX541 · NX1519:00 AM Bolton, Interchange
7h15
4:15 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX121 · NX1519:00 AM Bolton, Interchange
7h15
4:15 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX590 · NX15012:10 PM Bolton, Astley Bridge
7h15
7:25 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX121 · NX15012:10 PM Bolton, Astley Bridge
7h15
7:25 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX590 · NX15012:25 PM Bolton, Interchange
7h00
7:25 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX121 · NX15012:25 PM Bolton, Interchange
7h00
7:25 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bolton to Leicester 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.

Mon
Aug 31
Tue
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
Thu
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06

Why should you book Bolton to Leicester buses with Omio?

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

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 Bee Network to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Leicester.
  • 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 Bolton to Leicester.

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 Bee Network to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Leicester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bolton to Leicester.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Bolton to Leicester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Bolton to Leicester run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 05:10, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 7h 15m.

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
84 miles (136 km)
Average bus duration
3h 56m
Cheapest ticket price
$27 (€22)
Buses per day
4
Fastest bus
7h 15m
First bus
5:10 AM
Last bus
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Tue
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, Bee Network from Bolton to LeicesterYou can travel by bus between Bolton to Leicester with National Express, FlixBus, Bee Network for as low as $27 (€22). 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 FlixBus Duration
7h 30m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$19 (€16)
FlixBus frequency
4 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 National Express Duration
7h 15m
Cheapest National Express Price
$27 (€22)
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.

Bee Network

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Bee Network Duration
4h 57m
Bee Network frequency
1 a day

Complete guide to Leicester

Things to do in Leicester

Discover the best of Leicester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leicester trip today.

  • Must visit

Leicester Museum & Art Gallery

Leicester's flagship museum and gallery, known for dinosaurs, German Expressionism and broad collections for first-time visitors.

  • Must visit

King Richard III Visitor Centre

Dedicated to the 2012 discovery of Richard III, this award-winning museum uses immersive displays to tell a remarkable royal story.

  • Recommended

Abbey Pumping Station

A grand Victorian pumping station with working steam heritage displays, making industrial history surprisingly engaging for all ages.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£50+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£2.50-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is not expected, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Bus from Bolton to Leicester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bolton to Leicester 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 Leicester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Bolton to Leicester can start from as little as $27 (€22) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bolton to Leicester is $31 (€25) ; 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 Leicester is 7h 15m to travel the 84 miles (136 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 Leicester leaves at 5:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bolton to Leicester leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Bolton to Leicester which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus, Bee Network. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Bolton to Leicester, you can count on National Express, FlixBus, Bee Network for the best way to get you to Leicester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bolton and Leicester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Leicester from Bolton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bolton to Leicester is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bolton and Leicester including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bolton to Leicester:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bolton to Leicester for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bolton to Leicester depends on the bus companies:
  • 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 Bolton to Leicester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bolton to Leicester:
  • 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 Bolton to Leicester:
  • 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 Bolton to Leicester. 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 Leicester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bolton to Leicester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bolton to Leicester with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Bolton nor Leicester 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 Leicester 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 Leicester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers who are not licensed and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using licensed services helps ensure a safer visit.
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 Leicester

Most Bolton to Leicester buses use the Bolton, Interchange to Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda). Use this guide to compare Bolton and Leicester 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 Leicester

Which Bolton station do buses to Leicester leave from?

Buses from Bolton to Leicester leave from Bolton, Interchange. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bolton city centre at Bolton Market, Bolton BL1 1SX, UK.
Bolton, InterchangeBolton Market, Bolton BL1 1SX, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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 Bolton to Leicester

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

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