Bolton to Birmingham train with CrossCountry

Mon, Jun 22
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
TransPennine Express
Northern Trains Limited
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
TransPennine Express
Northern Trains Limited
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bolton to Birmingham

Showing times and prices for Jun 22

Cheapest price

$74

Average price

$78

Fastest journey

2 h 3 m

Average duration

2 h 3 m

Trains per day

19

Distance

128 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bolton to Birmingham will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Bolton to Birmingham without transferring at least once.

  • CrossCountryG01018+Northern RailG89839
    10:54 AM2h03
    Bolton station (BON)
    12:57 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $741One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01009+Northern RailG89828
    8:54 AM2h03
    Bolton station (BON)
    10:57 AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $741One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryW29866+Northern RailG89831
    9:21 AM2h12
    Bolton station (BON)
    11:33 AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $741One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryW29871+Northern RailG89836
    10:21 AM2h12
    Bolton station (BON)
    12:33 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $741One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryW29895+Northern RailG89863
    2:21 PM2h12
    Bolton station (BON)
    4:33 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
    $741One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Bolton to Birmingham

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bolton to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $12, and a train costs an average of $14.

Distance: 79 miles (128 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$55

Average price

$24

Average price

Cheapest

$46

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 3m

Average total duration

2h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 56m

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 Bolton to Birmingham is a bus with an average price of $24 (€20).

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

A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bolton to Birmingham costing on average $55 (€45).

The fastest way to travel from Bolton to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 2h 6m.

Other travel options to Birmingham take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 33m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bolton and Birmingham including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bolton to Birmingham among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $55 (€45) compared to roughly $46 (€37) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-9.44 (€-7.73). The journey takes 2h 6m versus 1h 56m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Bolton to Birmingham train times

The table below shows live departures for Bolton to Birmingham trains for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG01019+Northern RailG89801+Transpennine ExpressW84675
Delayed
10:34 AM 10:32 AMBolton station (BON)
2h24
12:56 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Bolton to Birmingham 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
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28

Why should you book Bolton to Birmingham trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Bolton to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bolton to Birmingham.

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, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Birmingham.
  • 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bolton to Birmingham.

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, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Birmingham.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Bolton to Birmingham.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bolton to Birmingham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bolton to Birmingham run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $14 (€11) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:56, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 79 miles (128 km) distance in 2h 2m.

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 $12 (€10)
Distance
79 miles (128 km)
Average train duration
2h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$14 (€11)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
2h 2m
First train
4:56 AM
Last train
10:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
28 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
Bus from $12 (€10)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited from Bolton to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Bolton and Birmingham from $12 (€10). 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 Duration
2h 2m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€11)
CrossCountry frequency
5 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 Duration
2h 43m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
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

TransPennine Express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 26m
Cheapest Price
$149 (€122)
TransPennine Express frequency
1 a day

Northern Trains Limited

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 55m
Cheapest Price
$130 (€106)
Northern Trains Limited frequency
16 a day

Complete guide to Birmingham

Things to do in Birmingham

Discover the best of Birmingham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Birmingham trip today.

  • Must visit

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Major city museum with Pre-Raphaelite art, local history, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark civic building.

  • Recommended

Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum

Family-friendly science museum with interactive galleries, a planetarium, and displays on industry and innovation.

  • Recommended

Ikon Gallery

Leading contemporary art gallery in Brindleyplace, known for ambitious exhibitions in a restored Victorian school building.

Pound sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Chain cafes and pubs are affordable, while central hotels and upscale dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. Tipping in pubs and cafes is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Bolton to Birmingham

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bolton to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bolton to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $14 (€11), while the average price is around $55 (€45).
The train from Bolton to Birmingham takes 2h 2m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Bolton to Birmingham leaves at 4:56 AM.
The distance by train from Bolton to Birmingham is 79 miles (128 km).
The last train from Bolton to Birmingham leaves at 10:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bolton to Birmingham.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bolton to Birmingham.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bolton to Birmingham.
The train station in Bolton that goes to Birmingham is Bolton station (BON), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
The cheapest way to get from Bolton to Birmingham is by bus, with a cost of around $12 (€10).
The train journey from Bolton to Birmingham offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the Pennines and passing through scenic areas like the Cheshire countryside, although it is not widely regarded as particularly scenic compared to other UK train routes.
A day trip from Bolton to Birmingham is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 2m. However, there are 4 train trips available per day.
In Birmingham, you can explore the historic Jewellery Quarter, take a canal boat tour, and visit the National SEA LIFE Centre. Enjoy performances at the Birmingham Hippodrome and discover history at the Birmingham Back to Backs. Must-see sights include the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Cadbury World, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Symphony Hall, and The Bullring shopping center.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Birmingham's key attractions, including its museums, culinary scene, and shopping areas.
Yes, you can take the train from Bolton to Birmingham.
Since neither Bolton nor Birmingham 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 Birmingham include Leicester, Leamington Spa, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Derby.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bolton to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like shopping districts and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and remain alert in crowded places to avoid these risks.
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 Bolton to Birmingham

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

Departure train stations in Bolton
Arrival train stations in Birmingham

Which Bolton station do trains to Birmingham leave from?

Trains from Bolton to Birmingham leave from Bolton. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bolton city centre at Bolton station, Trinity Street, Bolton, Lancashire, BL2 1BE.
BoltonBolton station, Trinity Street, Bolton, Lancashire, BL2 1BEWifiShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Bolton from Bolton city centre

Bolton is 1 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus576, 535, 525, 526, 507, 561, 562, 575, 527, 534, 537, 541, 533, 480 · 10m · $2 · every ~79 min
125 · 15m · $11 · every ~16 min

Bolton train station facilities and services

Bolton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Bolton.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Bolton.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bolton.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bolton: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bolton: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bolton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A Station, this station is scooter friendly, a scooter permit is required for travel, Level access through the ticket barriers to an overpass and via lifts to all platforms. Lifts available from first to last trains, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

LostockLostock station, Rumworth Road, Lostock, Greater Manchester, BL6 4JP+44 8002006060ParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Lostock from Bolton city centre

Lostock is 4 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainManchester Airport - Blackpool North, Manchester Oxford Road - Blackpool North, Manchester Airport - Preston, Bolton - Corkickle, Bolton - Blackpool North, Bolton - Barrow-in-Furness, Bolton - Millom, Bolton - Windermere, Stockport - Blackpool North · 4m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus905, 930, 520 · 19m · $2 · every ~6 min
576, 575 · 21m · $2 · every ~20 min

Lostock train station facilities and services

Lostock has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Lostock.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Lostock: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Lostock: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lostock: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B station, Level access from car park (22 paces, 1:12 slope) and Booking office to Bolton/Manchester platform. For services to Preston, separate ramped access (96 paces, 1:10 slope) from Rumworth Road overbridge onto the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Hall I' Th' WoodHall-i'-th'-Wood station, Crompton Way, Hall-i'-th'-Wood, Lancashire, BL1 8UFParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Hall I' Th' Wood from Bolton city centre

Hall I' Th' Wood is 2 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainManchester Victoria - Blackburn, Rochdale - Blackburn, Manchester Victoria - Clitheroe, Rochdale - Clitheroe, Rochdale - Ribblehead, Bolton - Blackburn, Bolton - Clitheroe, Bolton - Ribblehead · 5m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus507, 541, 533, 480 · 7m · $2 · every ~19 min

Hall I' Th' Wood train station facilities and services

Hall I' Th' Wood has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category C Station, Platforms are both accessed via a long set of step from street level, there is no step free route to the platforms, Accessible public telephones: The highest operating part of the telephone is 1140 mm above floor level, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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