- 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 Leicester to Bolton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$31
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$31
Fastest journey on Sep 20
6 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
6 h 50 m
Buses on Sep 20
1
Distance
136 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Leicester to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Bolton will cost around $31 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.
Fast buses
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 buses from Leicester to Bolton, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct buses cover the 136 km distance in an average of 6 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 50 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest buses will take 6 h 50 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.
11:45 PM6h50Leicester6:35 AMBolton$311One-way0 transfers
- 11:45 PM6h50Leicester6:35 AMBolton$311One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Leicester to Bolton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $39 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 32m. 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 $39, while a train costs an average of $88.
Distance: 84 miles (136 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$39 Average price Cheapest | $88 Average price | $38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 1m Average total duration 4h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 32m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 23m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  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 Leicester to Bolton is a bus with an average price of $39 (€32).
This is compared to other travel options from Leicester to Bolton:
A bus is $48 (€40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester to Bolton costing on average $88 (€72).
The fastest way to travel from Leicester to Bolton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 2m.
Other travel options to Bolton take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 31m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Bolton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester 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 $39 (€32) compared to roughly $38 (€31) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-1.39 (€-1.14). The journey takes 4h 31m versus 2h 23m 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.
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.
Leicester to Bolton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $31 |
Live departures
Leicester to Bolton bus times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Bolton buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:55 PM Leicester | 6h20 | 9:15 PM Bolton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:45 PM Leicester | 6h50 | 5:35 AM Bolton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:45 PM Leicester | 6h50 | 6:35 AM Bolton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Bolton by bus or train
Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Sep 20
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Why should you book Leicester to Bolton buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express offer buses services from Leicester to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Bolton.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Leicester 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester 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 National Express to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Bolton.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Bolton.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Leicester to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Leicester to Bolton run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 31m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $28 (€23) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:50, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 4h 0m.
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 4h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€23) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 4h 0m |
First bus 2:50 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 21 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: National Express from Leicester to BoltonYou can travel by bus between Leicester to Bolton with National Express for as low as $28 (€23). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
4h 0m
Cheapest National Express Price
$28 (€23)
National Express frequency
5 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.
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 Leicester to Bolton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester 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 Leicester to Bolton can start from as little as $28 (€23) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Leicester to Bolton is $39 (€32) ; 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 Leicester to Bolton is 4h 0m 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 Leicester to Bolton leaves at 2:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Leicester to Bolton leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Leicester to Bolton which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Leicester to Bolton, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Bolton. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Leicester and Bolton and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Bolton from Leicester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Leicester to Bolton is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Bolton including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Leicester to Bolton for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Leicester to Bolton:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Leicester to Bolton 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
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 Leicester to Bolton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Leicester to Bolton:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Leicester to Bolton:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Leicester to Bolton.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Leicester to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Leicester to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Leicester to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Leicester 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 Leicester 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 Leicester to Bolton
Most Leicester to Bolton buses use the Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station to Bolton, Interchange station pair, with some services arriving at Bolton, Astley Bridge. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Bolton bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Leicester
Arrival bus stations in Bolton
Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station from Leicester city centre
BusHop · 0m · $2 · every ~14 min
26 · 1m · every ~10 min
21 · 4m
Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda)Leicester Fosse Park, Fosse Park Ave, LE19 1HQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) from Leicester city centre
BusX6 · 21m · $2 · every ~4 min
50 · 23m · $2 · every ~10 min
104 · 32m · $1 · every ~10 min
18 · 44m · every ~8 min
Which Bolton station do buses from Leicester arrive at?
Buses from Leicester to Bolton most often arrive at Bolton, Interchange. Some services arrive at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East, 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.
Most popular bus connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bolton and Leicester
Most popular bus connections to Bolton
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