- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bolton to Edinburgh
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$95
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$102
Fastest journey on Sep 20
2 h 55 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
2 h 57 m
Trains on Sep 20
4
Distance
268 km
Cheap tickets
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 $102 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 4 trains from Bolton to Edinburgh, including 4 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 268 km distance in an average of 2 h 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 55 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 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.
W852004:44 PM2h55Bolton station (BON)7:39 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$951One-way0 transfers- W851922:44 PM2h59Bolton station (BON)5:43 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$951One-way0 transfers
- W8518412:44 PM2h55Bolton station (BON)3:39 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$1101One-way0 transfers
- W8517810:43 AM3h00Bolton station (BON)1:43 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$1101One-way0 transfers
- W852004:44 PM2h55Bolton station (BON)7:39 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$951One-way0 transfers
- W8518412:44 PM2h55Bolton station (BON)3:39 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$1101One-way0 transfers
- W851922:44 PM2h59Bolton station (BON)5:43 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$951One-way0 transfers
- W8517810:43 AM3h00Bolton station (BON)1:43 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$1101One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Bolton to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Bolton to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $46 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 29m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $46, while a flight costs an average of $355.
Distance: 166 miles (268 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$81 Average price | $355 Average price | $46 Average price Cheapest | $116 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 29m Average total duration Fastest 2h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration 2h 35m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 49m Average total duration 6h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.8 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $46.
This is compared to other travel options from Bolton to Edinburgh:
A bus is $34 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bolton to Edinburgh costing on average $81.
A bus is $309 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bolton to Edinburgh costing on average $355.
The fastest way to travel from Bolton to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 59m.
Bus takes on average 6h 19m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bolton and Edinburgh including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bolton to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 1h 5m faster (2h 59m by train vs 4h 4m by car) and roughly $36 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($81 vs $116). 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.
Live departures
Bolton to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Bolton to Edinburgh trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:38 AM Bolton | 3h02 | 9:40 AM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 8:25 AM Bolton | 5h02 | 1:27 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 9:15 AM Bolton | 3h03 | 12:18 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:08 AM Bolton | 3h12 | 1:20 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:08 PM Bolton | 3h10 | 3:18 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:38 PM Bolton | 3h01 | 3:39 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bolton to Edinburgh by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
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Sep 20
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Why should you book Bolton to Edinburgh trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as London North Eastern Railway or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Bolton to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bolton to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Edinburgh.
- 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 Transpennine Express with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bolton to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Edinburgh.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bolton to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bolton to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bolton to Edinburgh run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $41 but you can travel from only $18 by bus.
There are 3 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 50m.
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 $18
Distance 166 miles (268 km) |
Average train duration 2h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $41 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 50m |
First train 12:23 AM |
Last train 9:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 $18
Train companies: Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway from Bolton to Edinburgh trainsTranspennine Express, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Bolton and Edinburgh from $18. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transpennine Express Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$41
Transpennine Express frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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
2h 50m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$43
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
4h 2m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$80
London North Eastern Railway 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
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 pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Scotland
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
- Recommended
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
- Must visit
Princes Street
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
Haggis
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet, onion and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s national dish and central to Burns Suppers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Neeps And Tatties
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A hearty soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions in milk or cream. Strongly linked to Scotland’s fishing heritage and widely loved in Edinburgh.
Number One
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
The Cafe Royal
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
The Scran And Scallie
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
British pound sterling (£)
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
FAQs: Trains from Bolton to 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.
Train ticket prices from Bolton to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $41, while the average price is around $81.
The train from Bolton to Edinburgh takes 2h 50m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Bolton to Edinburgh is 166 miles (268 km).
The first train from Bolton to Edinburgh leaves at 12:23 AM.
The last train from Bolton to Edinburgh leaves at 9:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bolton to Edinburgh.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bolton to Edinburgh. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Transpennine Express.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bolton to Edinburgh.
The train station in Bolton that goes to Edinburgh is Bolton station (BON), which connects to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
The cheapest way to get from Bolton to Edinburgh is by bus, with a cost of around $18.
The train journey from Bolton to Edinburgh offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the picturesque landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales and the rolling hills of Southern Scotland, providing passengers with a visually appealing experience.
A day trip from Bolton to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 50m each way. Trains operate 5 times per day.
In Edinburgh, visitors can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, enjoy a ghost tour of the haunted streets, attend shows at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden. Discover hidden gems at the Stockbridge Market. Key sights include Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, The Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and The National Museum of Scotland.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Edinburgh allows you to explore its historic sites, such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, enjoy cultural attractions, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Bolton to Edinburgh.
Since neither Bolton nor Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Stirling, Dundee.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bolton to Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
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 Edinburgh
Most Bolton to Edinburgh trains use the Bolton to Edinburgh Waverley station pair. 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.
Departure train stations in Bolton
Arrival train stations in Edinburgh
Which Bolton station do trains to Edinburgh leave from?
Trains from Bolton to Edinburgh 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 1BE
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.
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre
BusUk090 · 12m · $1 · every ~32 min
Edinburgh Waverley train station facilities and services
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 and drink
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Bolton
More options for your journey from Bolton to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Bolton
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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