- 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 Preston to Bolton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$11
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$12
Fastest journey on Sep 19
40 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
1 h 57 m
Buses on Sep 19
3
Distance
28 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Preston to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Bolton will cost around $12 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 3 buses from Preston to Bolton, including 1 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct buses cover the 28 km distance in an average of 1 h 57 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 40 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest buses will take 2 h 35 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.
RL152 · NX5409:35 AM2h35Preston, Bus Station12:10 PMBolton, Astley Bridge$111One-way1 transfer- RL152 · NX5406:15 AM2h35Preston, Bus Station8:50 AMBolton, Astley Bridge$111One-way1 transfer
- NX42410:35 PM0h40Preston, Bus Station11:15 PMBolton, Interchange$131One-way0 transfers
- NX42410:35 PM0h40Preston, Bus Station11:15 PMBolton, Interchange$131One-way0 transfers
- RL152 · NX5409:35 AM2h35Preston, Bus Station12:10 PMBolton, Astley Bridge$111One-way1 transfer
- RL152 · NX5406:15 AM2h35Preston, Bus Station8:50 AMBolton, Astley Bridge$111One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Preston to Bolton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $12 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 57m. 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 bus costs an average of $12, while a train costs an average of $14.
Distance: 17 miles (28 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$12 Average price Cheapest | $14 Average price | $8 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 35m Average total duration 1h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 57m Average total duration Fastest 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg 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 Preston to Bolton is a bus with an average price of $12.
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Bolton:
A bus is $2 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Bolton costing on average $14.
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Bolton is by train with an average journey time of 27m.
Other travel options to Bolton take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Bolton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston 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 $12 compared to roughly $8 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-4.07. The journey takes 1h 5m versus 42m 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.
Preston to Bolton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:55AM | Arrival Time 08:30AM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 08:50AM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:55AM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:55AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 2h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 0h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $11 |
Live departures
Preston to Bolton bus times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Bolton buses for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RL152 · NX540 | 6:15 AM Preston, Bus Station | 2h35 | 8:50 AM Bolton, Astley Bridge | 1 transfer | |
| RL152 · NX540 | 9:35 AM Preston, Bus Station | 2h35 | 12:10 PM Bolton, Astley Bridge | 1 transfer | |
| NX424 | 10:35 PM Preston, Bus Station | 0h40 | 11:15 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 Preston 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.
Sat
Sep 19
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Why should you book Preston to Bolton buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire offer buses services from Preston to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston 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 Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire to find the best option for your trip from Preston 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 Preston 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 Preston to Bolton.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Preston to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Preston to Bolton run on average 3 times per day, taking around 1h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $11 but you can travel from only $7 by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:03, the last at 23:30. The fastest bus covers the 17 miles (28 km) distance in 40m.
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 $7
Distance 17 miles (28 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 |
Buses per day 3 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 40m |
First bus 12:03 AM |
Last bus 11:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 2 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $7
Bus providers: National Express from Preston to BoltonYou can travel by bus between Preston to Bolton with National Express for as low as $7. 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
40m
Cheapest National Express Price
$11
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 Preston to Bolton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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 Preston to Bolton can start from as little as $11 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Preston to Bolton is $12 ; 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 Preston to Bolton is 40m to travel the 17 miles (28 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 Preston to Bolton leaves at 12:03 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Preston to Bolton leaves at 11:30 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Preston to Bolton with Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Preston to Bolton, you can count on National Express, Stagecoach Cumbria & North Lancashire for the best way to get you to Bolton. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Preston and Bolton and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Preston , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Preston, Bus Station . 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 Preston, Bus Station, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) 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 Preston is worth doing with a journey time of 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Preston to Bolton is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Bolton including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Preston to Bolton for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Preston to Bolton:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Preston 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 Preston to Bolton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Preston 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 Preston to Bolton:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Preston to Bolton.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Preston to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Preston to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Preston to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Preston 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 Preston 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 Preston to Bolton
Most Preston to Bolton buses use the Preston, Bus Station to Bolton, Interchange station pair, with some services arriving at Bolton, Astley Bridge. Use this guide to compare Preston and Bolton bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Preston
Arrival bus stations in Bolton
Which Preston station do buses to Bolton leave from?
Buses from Preston to Bolton leave from Preston, Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Preston city centre at Preston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK.
Preston, Bus StationPreston Bus Station, Tithebarn St, Preston PR1 1YT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston, Bus Station from Preston city centre
Preston, Bus Station is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 6m · $11 · every ~8 min
Preston, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Preston, Bus Station 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 are available within the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in the station concourse. ATMs are multiple ATMs are located in the main concourse.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston, Bus Station: Full accessibility for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Which Bolton station do buses from Preston arrive at?
Buses from Preston 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 Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bolton and Preston
Most popular bus connections to Bolton
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