Birmingham to Bolton train with CrossCountry

Tue, Sep 15
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Bolton

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 15

Cheapest price on Sep 15

$27

Average ticket price on Sep 15

$49

Fastest journey on Sep 15

2 h 20 m

Average journey duration on Sep 15

2 h 31 m

Trains on Sep 15

4

Distance

128 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Birmingham to Bolton will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $27.

Fast trains

On Tue, Sep 15, we found 4 trains from Birmingham to Bolton, including 4 direct services.

On Tue, Sep 15 the direct trains cover the 128 km distance in an average of 2 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 20 m .

On Tue, Sep 15 the slowest trains will take 2 h 52 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.

  • CrossCountry
    7:01 AM2h52
    Birmingham
    9:53 AMBolton
    $271One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    8:30 AM2h22
    Birmingham
    10:52 AMBolton
    $431One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    8:01 AM2h30
    Birmingham
    10:31 AMBolton
    $441One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    6:01 PM2h20
    Birmingham
    8:21 PMBolton
    $831One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Birmingham to Bolton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $26 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 19m. 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 $26, while a train costs an average of $64.

Distance: 79 miles (128 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$64

Average price

$26

Average price

Cheapest

$46

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 19m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 29m

Average total duration

2h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 51m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus 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 Birmingham to Bolton is a bus with an average price of $26 (€21).

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

A bus is $39 (€31) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Birmingham to Bolton costing on average $64 (€52).

The fastest way to travel from Birmingham to Bolton is by train with an average journey time of 1h 49m.

Other travel options to Bolton take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 59m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham and Bolton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Bolton among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 2m sooner (1h 49m by train vs 1h 51m by car). Tickets start at around $64 (€52) compared to roughly $46 (€38) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Birmingham to Bolton train times

The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Bolton trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry7:01 AM Birmingham
2h52
9:53 AM Bolton0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry8:01 AM Birmingham
2h30
10:31 AM Bolton0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry8:30 AM Birmingham
2h22
10:52 AM Bolton0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Birmingham to Bolton 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.

Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21

Why should you book Birmingham to Bolton trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Cross Country offer trains services from Birmingham to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Bolton.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Bolton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Bolton.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Bolton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Birmingham to Bolton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Birmingham to Bolton run on average 4 times per day, taking around 1h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) but you can travel from only $11 (€9) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:30, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 79 miles (128 km) distance in 1h 42m.

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
Bus from $11 (€9)
Distance
79 miles (128 km)
Average train duration
1h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
$18 (€15)
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
1h 42m
First train
5:30 AM
Last train
11:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Fri
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
Bus from $11 (€9)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains from Birmingham to Bolton trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Birmingham and Bolton from $11 (€9). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
1h 42m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$18 (€15)
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
1h 48m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$44 (€36)
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
1h 49m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
$79 (€64)
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

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

Bolton Museum and Art Gallery

Bolton's main museum and gallery with local history, archaeology, art, and aquarium displays in a central civic building.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Birmingham to Bolton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Bolton by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Bolton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Bolton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€15), while the average price is around $64 (€52).
The train from Birmingham to Bolton takes 1h 42m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Birmingham to Bolton leaves at 5:30 AM.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Bolton is 79 miles (128 km).
The last train from Birmingham to Bolton leaves at 11:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Birmingham to Bolton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Birmingham to Bolton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Birmingham to Bolton.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Bolton is Birmingham New Street (BHM), which connects to Bolton station (BON).
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Bolton is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€9).
The train journey from Birmingham to Bolton offers a mix of urban and countryside views, passing through industrial landscapes and sections of the West Midlands and Greater Manchester countryside, though it is not typically renowned for being particularly scenic.
A day trip from Birmingham to Bolton is not feasible as the journey duration is 1h 42m, exceeding the 120-minute limit. Trains run 4 times per day.
To explore Bolton's key attractions, such as the Bolton Museum, Smithills Hall, and the West Pennine Moors, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Bolton.
Since neither Birmingham 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.
Popular day trips by train from Bolton include Manchester, Blackburn, Preston, Wigan, Rochdale.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Bolton among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
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 train stations

Popular train stations from Birmingham to Bolton

Most Birmingham to Bolton trains use the Birmingham New Street to Bolton station pair, with some services arriving at Lostock. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Bolton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Birmingham
Arrival train stations in Bolton
Birmingham New StreetStation Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham New Street from Birmingham city centre

Bus16 · 7m · $2 · every ~27 min

Birmingham New Street train station facilities and services

Birmingham New Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: All Bar One, Leon, Caffè Nero, Five Guys, Krispy Kreme, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Wasabi, Starbucks, Hotel Chocolat

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud. ATMs are aTM machines are located on the paid concourse.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00, Sun: 07:30 - 23:00. Information desks are in the middle of the station.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is you can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham New Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Birmingham New Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham New Street: Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center, Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station), Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham.

Birmingham InternationalBirmingham International station, Stationlink Road, National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, West Midlands, B40 1PAWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham International from Birmingham city centre

Birmingham International is 12 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Walsall - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Milton Keynes Central, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 9m · $6 · every ~8 min
BusX1 · 39m · $5 · every ~23 min
X1 · 40m · $5 · every ~23 min
17A · 53m · $5 · every ~19 min

Birmingham International train station facilities and services

Birmingham International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Birmingham International.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham International. ATMs are available at Birmingham International.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Birmingham International. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham International: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Birmingham International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham International: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Selly OakSelly Oak station, Bristol Road, Selly Oak, West Midlands, B29 6DWShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Selly Oak from Birmingham city centre

Selly Oak is 4 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainBirmingham New Street - Redditch, Birmingham New Street - Bromsgrove, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Redditch, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Longbridge, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Bromsgrove, Four Oaks - Redditch · 9m · $1 · every ~8 min
Bus63, 61 · 16m · $2 · every ~52 min
63, 61 · 18m · $2 · every ~52 min

Selly Oak train station facilities and services

Selly Oak has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Selly Oak.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Selly Oak. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Selly Oak: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Selly Oak: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Selly Oak: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: A Ticket Vending Machine is available in the Booking Hall and on Platform One, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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