- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland’s flagship museum covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
Cheapest price
$86
Average price
$99
Fastest journey
2 h 55 m
Average duration
3 h 3 m
Trains per day
9
Distance
268 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bolton to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bolton to Edinburgh will cost around $99 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $86.
Of the 9 trains that leave Bolton for Edinburgh on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 268 km distance in an average of 3 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 55 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 3 h 16 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.
W33374+
G89052
W33372+
G89054
W33375+
G89068
W85209
W85200
W85200
W85209
W85192
W33375+
G89068
W33374+
G89052Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bolton to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a flight costs an average of $137.
Distance: 166 miles (268 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$81 Average price | $60 Average price Cheapest | $208 Average price | $115 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 53m Average total duration Fastest 3h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 11m Average total duration 5h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 19m Average total duration 5h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.8 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Bolton to Edinburgh:
A bus is $22 (€18) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bolton to Edinburgh costing on average $81 (€67).
A bus is $148 (€121) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bolton to Edinburgh costing on average $208 (€170).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Flight takes on average 5h 19m.
Bus takes on average 5h 41m.
The journey is about 41m faster (3h 23m by train vs 4h 4m by car) and roughly $34 (€28) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($81 (€67) vs $115 (€94)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
The table below shows live departures for Bolton to Edinburgh trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G89066+ W33217+ W85184 | 12:08 PM Bolton station (BON) | 3h31 | 3:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G89066+ W33144+ W85184 | 12:08 PM Bolton station (BON) | 3h31 | 3:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G89570+ W85192 | 1:22 PM Bolton station (BON) | 4h21 | 5:43 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W85192 | 2:44 PM Bolton station (BON) | 2h59 | 5:43 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G89068+ W33375 | 3:08 PM Bolton station (BON) | 3h11 | 6:19 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W85200 | 4:44 PM Bolton station (BON) | 2h55 | 7:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G89052+ W33374 | 5:08 PM Bolton station (BON) | 3h16 | 8:24 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
W85209 | 6:43 PM Bolton station (BON) | 2h56 | 9:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, and flight 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 Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:23, the last at 21:00. The fastest train covers the 166 miles (268 km) distance in 2h 58m.
Distance 166 miles (268 km) |
Average train duration 3h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $22 (€18) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 58m |
First train 12:23 AM |
Last train 9:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 49 days |
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
Scotland’s flagship museum covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
Major national art gallery on The Mound with Scottish and European masterpieces. Central, elegant and one of Edinburgh’s classic cultural stops.
Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history and culture. Well regarded for both the collection and the building itself.
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, courtyards, shops and major sights.
One of Edinburgh’s essential viewpoints, especially popular for sunrise and sunset photography. Famous for sweeping views over the city and Arthur’s Seat.
Ancient volcanic peak in Holyrood Park with the city’s most famous hike and outstanding panoramic views. A classic outdoor Edinburgh experience.
Scotland’s best-known national dish: a peppery savoury pudding traditionally made with oats and offal, served with mashed turnips and potatoes. It is strongly associated with Edinburgh and Burns supps
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Though from Cullen, it is a classic on Edinburgh menus and a comforting local staple
A traditional hearty soup of barley, root vegetables and usually lamb or mutton. It is a long-standing Scottish comfort food commonly found in pubs and cafes
A polished gastropub from Tom Kitchin, known for refined Scottish pub classics, seasonal produce and a warm neighbourhood atmosphere
A long-established seafood restaurant popular for Scottish mussels, fish dishes and a relaxed city-centre setting
A respected upscale seafood restaurant focused on high-quality Scottish fish and shellfish in an elegant contemporary space
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities, especially for hotels and dining in the centre during peak season.
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Rounding up is common in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bolton to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Bolton to Edinburgh trains use the Bolton to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Bolton and Edinburgh 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.
Hall I' Th' Wood is 2 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
Hall I' Th' Wood has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Parking.
Available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Bike Parking.
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.
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.
Edinburgh Waverley 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, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Haymarket has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Haymarket.
Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.
Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Haymarket: Parking, WC.
Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2, 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: No.
Edinburgh Park is 7 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Edinburgh Park has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Edinburgh Park.
Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh Park.
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Park: Parking.
Available at Edinburgh Park: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Park: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to both platforms, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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