- Must visit
Grosvenor Museum
An award-winning medical history attraction exploring disease, cures, and public health in a playful way. It is unusual, family-friendly, and increasingly popular.
Cheapest price
$18
Average price
$28
Fastest journey
1 h 24 m
Average duration
1 h 38 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
53 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bolton to Chester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bolton to Chester will cost around $28 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.
It's difficult to get from Bolton to Chester without transferring at least once.
C32622 · G89080
P28784 · G89080
G89881 · G85900
G89881 · G86165 · G89080
G38400+
G89826
G89881 · G86165 · G89080
G38400+
G89826
P28784 · G89080
C32622 · G89080
G89881 · G85900Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bolton to Chester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $13, and a train costs an average of $13.
Distance: 32 miles (53 km)
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$17 Average price Cheapest | $15 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 53m Average total duration Fastest 1h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Tickets start at around $17 (€14) compared to roughly $15 (€12) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-2.24 (€-1.81). The journey takes 1h 23m versus 1h 1m 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.
The table below shows live departures for Bolton to Chester trains for today, Friday, August 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
L89354 · G89086 | Delayed 8:58 AM 9:48 AMBolton station (BON) | 2h13 | 12:01 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
L89354+ G38405+ G16013 | Delayed 8:58 AM 9:48 AMBolton station (BON) | 2h03 | 11:51 AM Chester station (CTR) | 2 transfers | |
P28643+ W33903+ G38405 | Delayed 8:56 AM 9:49 AMBolton station (BON) | 2h02 | 11:51 AM Chester station (CTR) | 2 transfers | |
G89833+ G38405 | Delayed 9:00 AM 9:54 AMBolton station (BON) | 1h57 | 11:51 AM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
P24167+ G38405 | Delayed 9:07 AM 9:58 AMBolton station (BON) | 1h53 | 11:51 AM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
C32646 · G89086 | On time 10:18 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h43 | 12:01 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
G89836+ G38405 | On time 10:21 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h30 | 11:51 AM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
P28790 · G89086 | 10:25 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h36 | 12:01 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
G89883 · G85906 | On time 10:36 AM Bolton station (BON) | 2h01 | 12:37 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
G89883 · G86176 · G89086 | 10:36 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h25 | 12:01 PM Chester station (CTR) | 2 transfers | |
L89368 · G89092 | On time 10:48 AM Bolton station (BON) | 2h13 | 1:01 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
L89368+ G38409+ C24952 | On time 10:48 AM Bolton station (BON) | 2h01 | 12:49 PM Chester station (CTR) | 2 transfers | |
P28653+ W33933+ G38409 | On time 10:49 AM Bolton station (BON) | 2h00 | 12:49 PM Chester station (CTR) | 2 transfers | |
G89839+ G38409 | On time 10:54 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h55 | 12:49 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
P24171+ G38409 | On time 10:58 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h51 | 12:49 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
C32657 · G89092 | On time 11:18 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h43 | 1:01 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
G89843+ G38409 | On time 11:21 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h28 | 12:49 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
P28793 · G89092 | On time 11:25 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h36 | 1:01 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
G89869 · G86181 · G89092 | On time 11:36 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h25 | 1:01 PM Chester station (CTR) | 2 transfers | |
G89869 · G85910 | On time 11:36 AM Bolton station (BON) | 2h01 | 1:37 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
L89316 · G89095 | On time 11:48 AM Bolton station (BON) | 2h13 | 2:01 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
L89316+ G38413+ C24954 | On time 11:48 AM Bolton station (BON) | 2h01 | 1:49 PM Chester station (CTR) | 2 transfers | |
P28665+ C01362+ G38413 | On time 11:49 AM Bolton station (BON) | 2h00 | 1:49 PM Chester station (CTR) | 2 transfers | |
G89847+ G38413 | 11:54 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h55 | 1:49 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
P24175+ G38413 | On time 11:58 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h51 | 1:49 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
C32606 · G89095 | On time 12:18 PM Bolton station (BON) | 1h43 | 2:01 PM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, August 29 | |||||
C32622 · G89080 | 8:16 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h45 | 10:01 AM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
G89826+ G38400 | 8:22 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h27 | 9:49 AM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
P28784 · G89080 | 8:26 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h35 | 10:01 AM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
G89881 · G85900 | 8:37 AM Bolton station (BON) | 2h00 | 10:37 AM Chester station (CTR) | 1 transfer | |
G89881 · G86165 · G89080 | 8:37 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1h24 | 10:01 AM Chester station (CTR) | 2 transfers | |
L89343+ G38404+ G16014 | 8:48 AM Bolton station (BON) | 2h01 | 10:49 AM Chester station (CTR) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare 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.
Trains from Bolton to Chester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 (€10) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:51, the last at 23:21. The fastest train covers the 32 miles (53 km) distance in 1h 33m.
Distance 32 miles (53 km) |
Average train duration 1h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 (€10) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 1h 33m |
First train 3:51 AM |
Last train 11:21 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Chester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chester trip today.
An award-winning medical history attraction exploring disease, cures, and public health in a playful way. It is unusual, family-friendly, and increasingly popular.
A major museum on Roman Chester with archaeology, reconstructed rooms, and hands-on displays. It is the best place to understand the city’s ancient roots.
A richly furnished Georgian townhouse showing domestic life across centuries. Costumed interpretation and period interiors make it engaging and memorable.
A wide green expanse by the River Dee, popular for walks, picnics, and events. It offers classic views of the water and easy access to central sights.
A scenic trail following the old city defences with frequent viewpoints and easy access to landmarks. It is one of the best ways to see Chester efficiently.
One of Chester’s main shopping streets, lined with historic buildings and Rows. It captures the city’s distinctive mix of heritage and everyday life.
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and spice, long linked to Chester and nearby Cheshire baking traditions.
Crumbly, creamy cow's milk cheese from Cheshire, one of England's oldest named cheeses and a staple of local farming.
Traditional Cheshire cheese melted with beer, mustard and seasoning on toast; a classic pub and supper dish in the region.
Established city-centre bistro serving modern British food with local produce in a relaxed, smart setting.
Popular independent restaurant focused on seasonal small plates, natural wines and creative modern cooking.
Refined fine dining by chef Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor, known for polished tasting menus and formal service.
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining cost less than London, but tourist areas raise prices. Buses are reasonable; central sights are walkable.
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% at restaurants for good service. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Official public transport app
Chester Railway Station -> Chester City Centre
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bolton to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Bolton to Chester trains use the Bolton to Chester station pair. Use this guide to compare Bolton and Chester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Bolton is 1 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options are available at Bolton.
Wi-Fi is available at Bolton.
Ticket office support is available at Bolton.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bolton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bolton: Bike Parking.
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.
Lostock is 4 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
Lostock has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Ticket office support is available at Lostock.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Lostock: Parking.
Available at Lostock: Bike Parking.
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.
Bromley Cross is 3 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
Bromley Cross has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Ticket office support is available at Bromley Cross.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bromley Cross: Parking.
Available at Bromley Cross: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Bromley Cross: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B station, To Manchester : Level access from the car park over level crossing and up ramp onto platform. To Blackburn : Level access from the car park, through a 4ft wide gate, up a short ramp (1:9 slope) onto the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: The highest operating part of the telephone is 1140 mm above floor level, 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.
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
ATMs are available at Chester.
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Chester: Parking, WC.
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, 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.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need