Bolton to Chester train with Northern Rail

Wed, Jul 15
+ Add return
Northern Rail
Transport for Wales
TransPennine Express
Northern Trains Limited
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Northern Rail
Transport for Wales
TransPennine Express
Northern Trains Limited
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bolton to Chester

Showing times and prices for Jul 15

Cheapest price

$29

Average price

$35

Fastest journey

1 h 24 m

Average duration

1 h 33 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

53 km

Cheap tickets

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 $35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.

Fast trains

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

  • Northern RailG89881 · G86165 · G89080
    8:37 AM1h24
    Bolton station (BON)
    10:01 AMChester station (CTR)
    $291One-way
    2 transfers
  • Northern RailP28784 · G89080
    8:26 AM1h35
    Bolton station (BON)
    10:01 AMChester station (CTR)
    $291One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38399+Northern RailG89826
    8:22 AM1h27
    Bolton station (BON)
    9:49 AMChester station (CTR)
    $371One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38873 · G38625+Northern RailG89828
    8:54 AM1h50
    Bolton station (BON)
    10:44 AMChester station (CTR)
    $371One-way
    2 transfers
  • Northern RailP28629 · G89080+Avanti West CoastW34181
    8:32 AM1h29
    Bolton station (BON)
    10:01 AMChester station (CTR)
    $371One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Bolton to Chester

Omio 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 $10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 24m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $10, and a bus costs an average of $37.

Distance: 32 miles (53 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$19

Average price

Cheapest

$37

Average price

$14

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 54m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 57m

Average total duration

2h 27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 1m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Bolton to Chester is a train with an average price of $19 (€16).

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

A train is $17 (€14) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bolton to Chester costing on average $37 (€30).

The fastest way to travel from Bolton to Chester is by train with an average journey time of 1h 24m.

Other travel options to Chester take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 27m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bolton and Chester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bolton to Chester 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 $19 (€16) compared to roughly $14 (€12) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-5.17 (€-4.26). The journey takes 1h 24m 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.

Compare prices and tickets Bolton to Chester 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.

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

Why should you book Bolton to Chester trains with Omio?

Northern Rail as well as Transport for Wales, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Bolton to Chester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bolton to Chester.

Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Chester.
  • 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 Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bolton to Chester.

Why book with Omio over Trip or Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Chester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bolton to Chester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bolton to Chester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bolton to Chester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $10 (€8) 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 24m.

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
32 miles (53 km)
Average train duration
1h 24m
Cheapest ticket price
$10 (€8)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
1h 24m
First train
3:51 AM
Last train
11:21 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
14 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

Train companies: Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited from Bolton to Chester trainsNorthern Rail, Transport for Wales, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Bolton and Chester from $10 (€8). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Northern Rail

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest Price
$10 (€8)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 59m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

TransPennine Express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 20m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€42)
TransPennine Express frequency
5 a day

Northern Trains Limited

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 11m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€16)
Northern Trains Limited frequency
22 a day

FAQs: Trains from Bolton to Chester

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bolton to Chester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $10 (€8), while the average price is around $19 (€16).
The train from Bolton to Chester takes 1h 24m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Bolton to Chester leaves at 3:51 AM.
The distance by train from Bolton to Chester is 32 miles (53 km).
The last train from Bolton to Chester leaves at 11:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bolton to Chester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bolton to Chester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bolton to Chester.
The train station in Bolton that goes to Chester is Bolton station (BON), which connects to Chester station (CTR).
The cheapest way to get from Bolton to Chester is by train, with a cost of around $10 (€8).
The train journey from Bolton to Chester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the countryside, small towns, and sections of the Pennines, making it moderately scenic.
Yes, a day trip from Bolton to Chester is feasible with a travel time of 1h 24m and a distance of 32 miles (53 km). Trains run frequently with a frequency of 5 per day.
In Chester, you can explore Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos, and the Grosvenor Museum with its local history exhibits. Enjoy the scenic River Dee with a walk or boat trip. Visit Storyhouse for theatre, cinema, and library experiences. Discover military history at the Cheshire Military Museum. Don't miss Chester Cathedral's stunning architecture, the Chester Roman Amphitheatre, the medieval Chester City Walls, the iconic Eastgate Clock, and The Rows for unique shopping experiences.
To fully experience Chester, two to three days are ideal. This allows time to explore its historic attractions, such as the Roman walls, Chester Cathedral, and the historic Rows, as well as enjoy its shops and dining options.
Yes, you can take the train from Bolton to Chester.
Since neither Bolton nor Chester 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 Chester include Manchester, Liverpool, Shrewsbury, Crewe, Stockport.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bolton to Chester 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 Chester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and near popular attractions. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed taxis or pre-booked transportation. Scams involving overpriced goods or services can occur in busy tourist spots, so it's advisable to agree on prices beforehand and be vigilant when approached by street vendors.
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 Chester

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.

Departure train stations in Bolton
Arrival train stations in Chester

Which Bolton station do trains to Chester leave from?

Trains from Bolton to Chester 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.

Bromley CrossBromley Cross station, Chapeltown Road, Bromley Cross, Lancashire, BL7 9AG+44 8002006060ParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Bromley Cross from Bolton city centre

Bromley Cross is 3 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainRochdale - Clitheroe, Rochdale - Blackburn, Bolton - Clitheroe, Bolton - Blackburn, Manchester Victoria - Blackburn, Manchester Victoria - Clitheroe, Rochdale - Ribblehead, Bolton - Ribblehead · 8m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus541, 533 · 16m · $2 · every ~10 min
541 · 26m · $2 · every ~6 min

Bromley Cross train station facilities and services

Bromley Cross 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 Bromley Cross.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bromley Cross: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Bromley Cross: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

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.

More options for your journey from Bolton to Chester

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