- 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 Southampton to Bolton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$60
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$63
Fastest journey on Sep 19
9 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
10 h 23 m
Buses on Sep 19
3
Distance
306 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Southampton to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Bolton will cost around $63 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $60.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Southampton to Bolton without transferring at least once.
NX032 · NX54012:15 PM9h55Southampton, Coach Station10:10 PMBolton, Interchange$601One-way1 transfer- NX032 · NX5409:15 AM9h40Southampton, Coach Station6:55 PMBolton, Interchange$601One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · NX4247:00 PM11h35Southampton, Coach Station6:35 AMBolton, Interchange$681One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · NX5409:15 AM9h40Southampton, Coach Station6:55 PMBolton, Interchange$601One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · NX54012:15 PM9h55Southampton, Coach Station10:10 PMBolton, Interchange$601One-way1 transfer
- NX032 · NX4247:00 PM11h35Southampton, Coach Station6:35 AMBolton, Interchange$681One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Southampton to Bolton
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $65 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 0m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $65, while a flight costs an average of $196.
Distance: 190 miles (306 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$65 Average price Cheapest | $182 Average price | $196 Average price | $84 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 50m Average total duration 9h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration 4h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration Fastest 1h 0m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 41m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Bolton is a bus with an average price of $65.
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Bolton:
A bus is $117 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Bolton costing on average $182.
A bus is $131 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Southampton to Bolton costing on average $196.
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Bolton is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 0m.
Other travel options to Bolton take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 0m.
Bus takes on average 9h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Bolton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton 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 $65 compared to roughly $84 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $19. The journey takes 9h 20m versus 4h 41m 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.
Southampton to Bolton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 04:34PM | Duration 7h39 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 08:12PM | Duration 8h02 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 11:03PM | Duration 7h03 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $0.00 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 11h35 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 11h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
Live departures
Southampton to Bolton bus times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX032 · NX540 | 9:15 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 9h40 | 6:55 PM Bolton, Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX540 | 12:15 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 9h55 | 10:10 PM Bolton, Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX424 | 7:00 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 11h35 | 6:35 AM Bolton, Interchange | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton 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
Sep 19
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Why should you book Southampton to Bolton buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Southampton to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Bolton.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- 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 Southampton 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 Southampton to Bolton.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Southampton to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Southampton to Bolton run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $61 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 06:30, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 190 miles (306 km) distance in 8h 45m.
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 190 miles (306 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 8h 45m |
First bus 6:30 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
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 from Southampton to BoltonYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Bolton with National Express for as low as $61. 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
8h 45m
Cheapest National Express Price
$61
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 Southampton to Bolton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Bolton can start from as little as $61 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Bolton is $65 ; 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 Southampton to Bolton is 8h 45m to travel the 190 miles (306 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 Southampton to Bolton leaves at 6:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Southampton to Bolton leaves at 11:15 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton and Bolton and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Southampton , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Southampton, Coach Station, Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) . When arriving in Bolton , you can end your journey in bus stations like Bolton, Interchange, Manchester, Shudehill Interchange .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Southampton, 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 trip to Bolton from Southampton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Southampton to Bolton is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Bolton including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Bolton:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Bolton for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton 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 Southampton to Bolton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton 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 Southampton to Bolton:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Southampton to Bolton.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Bolton with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Southampton 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton 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 Southampton to Bolton
Most Southampton to Bolton buses use the Southampton, Coach Station to Bolton, Interchange station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Bolton bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Southampton
Arrival bus stations in Bolton
Which Southampton station do buses to Bolton leave from?
Buses from Southampton to Bolton leave from Southampton, Coach Station. The station is from Southampton city centre at Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA, United Kingdom.
Southampton, Coach StationHarbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, Coach Station from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · $2 · every ~20 min
Southampton, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Southampton, 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 Express (in the station), Sandwich Bar (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University)University Rd, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) from Southampton city centre
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) is 3 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU2b, U2 · 13m · $2 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 24m · $2 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 28m · $2 · every ~37 min
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) bus station facilities and services
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) 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 Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University). ATMs are available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University): Bus stop is accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Which Bolton station do buses from Southampton arrive at?
Buses from Southampton to Bolton most often arrive at Bolton, Interchange. Some services arrive at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, 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.
Most popular bus connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Bolton and Southampton
Most popular bus connections to Bolton
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