- 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 Manchester to Bolton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14
Cheapest price on Sep 14
$4
Average ticket price on Sep 14
$5
Fastest journey on Sep 14
30 m
Average journey duration on Sep 14
35 m
Buses on Sep 14
2
Distance
17 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Bolton will cost around $5 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $4.
Fast buses
On Mon, Sep 14, we found 2 buses from Manchester to Bolton, including 2 direct services.
On Mon, Sep 14 the direct buses cover the 17 km distance in an average of 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 30 m .
On Mon, Sep 14 the slowest buses will take 40 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.
NX5407:40 PM0h40Manchester, Coach Station8:20 PMBolton, Astley Bridge$41One-way0 transfers- NX5407:40 PM0h30Manchester, Coach Station8:10 PMBolton, Interchange$51One-way0 transfers
- NX5407:40 PM0h30Manchester, Coach Station8:10 PMBolton, Interchange$51One-way0 transfers
- NX5407:40 PM0h40Manchester, Coach Station8:20 PMBolton, Astley Bridge$41One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Manchester to Bolton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $5 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 46m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $5, while a bus costs an average of $5.
Distance: 10 miles (17 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$5 Average price | $5 Average price Cheapest | $6 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 2m Average total duration 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 46m Average total duration Fastest 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.0kg 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 Manchester to Bolton is a train with an average price of $5.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Bolton:
A train is $0.28 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Manchester to Bolton costing on average $5.
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Bolton is by train with an average journey time of 16m.
Other travel options to Bolton take longer:
Bus takes on average 32m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Bolton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Bolton among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about 2m sooner (32m by bus vs 34m by car) and save roughly $0.33 compared to fuel and tolls ($5 vs $6). 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 National Express, Bee Network.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Manchester to Bolton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 0h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:20PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 0h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $5 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 0h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $4 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:40PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 0h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $4 |
Live departures
Manchester to Bolton bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Bolton buses for today, Sunday, September 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX540 | 6:20 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0h45 | 7:05 PM Bolton, Astley Bridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX540 | 6:20 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0h35 | 6:55 PM Bolton, Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX540 | 9:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0h35 | 10:15 PM Bolton, Astley Bridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX540 | 9:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 0h30 | 10:10 PM Bolton, Interchange | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester 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.
Mon
Sep 14
Sep 14
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Why should you book Manchester to Bolton buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Bee Network offer buses services from Manchester to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester 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 Bee Network to find the best option for your trip from Manchester 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Bolton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Bolton.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Bolton run on average 2 times per day, taking around 32m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $4 but you can travel from only $3 by train.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest bus covers the 10 miles (17 km) distance in 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $3
Distance 10 miles (17 km) |
Average bus duration 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $4 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 30m |
First bus 12:01 AM |
Last bus 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $3
Bus providers: National Express from Manchester to BoltonYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Bolton with National Express for as low as $3. 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
30m
Cheapest National Express Price
$4
National Express frequency
2 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 Manchester to Bolton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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 Manchester to Bolton can start from as little as $4 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester to Bolton is $5 ; 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 Manchester to Bolton is 30m to travel the 10 miles (17 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 Manchester to Bolton leaves at 12:01 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester to Bolton leaves at 11:57 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Manchester to Bolton with National Express, Bee Network. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Manchester to Bolton, you can count on National Express, Bee Network for the best way to get you to Bolton. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Manchester and Bolton and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Manchester , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Manchester, Coach Station, Manchester, Airport, Manchester, Broadway / Trevor Dr (New Moston) . When arriving in Bolton , you can end your journey in bus stations like Bolton, Interchange, Bolton, Astley Bridge .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Manchester, Coach Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Bolton, Interchange, located 0 away from the city centre.
A day trip to Bolton from Manchester is worth doing with a journey time of 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Manchester to Bolton is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Bolton including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester to Bolton:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Manchester to Bolton for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Manchester 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 Manchester to Bolton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester 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 Manchester to Bolton:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Manchester to Bolton.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Manchester to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester to Bolton
Most Manchester to Bolton buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Bolton, Interchange station pair, with some services arriving at Bolton, Astley Bridge. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Bolton bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Manchester
Arrival bus stations in Bolton
Which Manchester station do buses to Bolton leave from?
Buses from Manchester to Bolton leave from Manchester, Coach Station. The station is from Manchester city centre at Chorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom.
Manchester, Coach StationChorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Coach Station from Manchester city centre
Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 33, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 1m · $2 · every ~231 min
Manchester, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Manchester, 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: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
Manchester, AirportManchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · $6 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · $1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · every ~8 min
Manchester, Airport bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Which Bolton station do buses from Manchester arrive at?
Buses from Manchester to Bolton most often arrive at Bolton, Interchange. Some services arrive at Bolton, Astley Bridge, 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 Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bolton and Manchester
Most popular bus connections to Bolton
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