- Must visit
The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bolton to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
kr65
Average ticket price on Sep 20
kr101
Fastest journey on Sep 20
20 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
24 m
Trains on Sep 20
6
Distance
28 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bolton to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bolton to Preston will cost around kr101 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr65.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 6 trains from Bolton to Preston, including 6 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 28 km distance in an average of 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 20 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 34 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.
C319009:22 AM0h35Bolton station (BON)9:57 AMPreston station (PRE)kr651One-way0 transfers- C318978:19 AM0h34Bolton station (BON)8:53 AMPreston station (PRE)kr651One-way0 transfers
- G890649:09 AM0h24Bolton station (BON)9:33 AMPreston station (PRE)kr1001One-way0 transfers
- C3172110:12 AM0h23Bolton station (BON)10:35 AMPreston station (PRE)kr1161One-way0 transfers
W8517810:43 AM0h21Bolton station (BON)11:04 AMPreston station (PRE)kr1301One-way0 transfers
- W851719:44 AM0h20Bolton station (BON)10:04 AMPreston station (PRE)kr1301One-way0 transfers
- W8517810:43 AM0h21Bolton station (BON)11:04 AMPreston station (PRE)kr1301One-way0 transfers
- C3172110:12 AM0h23Bolton station (BON)10:35 AMPreston station (PRE)kr1161One-way0 transfers
- G890649:09 AM0h24Bolton station (BON)9:33 AMPreston station (PRE)kr1001One-way0 transfers
- C318978:19 AM0h34Bolton station (BON)8:53 AMPreston station (PRE)kr651One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bolton to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bolton to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of kr80 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of kr80, while a bus costs an average of kr80.
Distance: 17 miles (28 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
kr80 Average price Cheapest | kr80 Average price | kr51 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
59m Average total duration Fastest 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 19m Average total duration 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Preston is a train with an average price of kr80.
This is compared to other travel options from Bolton to Preston:
A train is kr0.48 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bolton to Preston costing on average kr80.
The fastest way to travel from Bolton to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 29m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Bus takes on average 49m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bolton and Preston including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bolton to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 13m sooner (29m by train vs 42m by car). Tickets start at around kr80 compared to roughly kr51 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Transpennine Express, Northern Rail.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Bolton to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Bolton to Preston 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G89548 | On time 7:23 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0h36 | 7:59 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85166 | On time 7:38 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0h21 | 7:59 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89552 | On time 7:53 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0h35 | 8:28 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89043 | On time 8:08 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0h24 | 8:32 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89556 | On time 8:22 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0h35 | 8:57 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85167 | On time 8:38 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0h24 | 9:02 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89560 | On time 8:53 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0h33 | 9:26 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89063 | On time 9:08 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0h25 | 9:33 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89564 | On time 9:22 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0h35 | 9:57 AM Preston station (PRE) | 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 Preston 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
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Sep 22
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Sep 26
Why should you book Bolton to Preston trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Bolton to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bolton to Preston.
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 Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Preston.
- 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 Preston.
Why book with Omio over Trip or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Bolton to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bolton to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bolton to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bolton to Preston run on average 11 times per day, taking around 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr30 if you book in advance.
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:24, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 17 miles (28 km) distance in 19m.
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 17 miles (28 km) |
Average train duration 29m |
Cheapest ticket price kr30 |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 11 |
Fastest train 19m |
First train 12:24 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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, Transpennine Express from Bolton to Preston trainsNorthern Rail, Transpennine Express trains will get you between Bolton and Preston from kr30. 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 Northern Rail Duration
23m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
kr30
Northern Rail frequency
5 a day
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
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
19m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
kr126
Transpennine Express frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Preston; ask the driver for the cheapest suitable ticket.
- Most local travel is by bus from Preston Bus Station; check live departures in the Stagecoach Bus app before you travel.
FAQs: Trains from Bolton to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bolton to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bolton to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr30, while the average price is around kr80.
The train from Bolton to Preston takes 19m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Bolton to Preston leaves at 12:24 AM.
The distance by train from Bolton to Preston is 17 miles (28 km).
The last train from Bolton to Preston leaves at 11:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bolton to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bolton to Preston. This service operates 11 times per day, provided by Transpennine Express, Northern Rail.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bolton to Preston.
The train station in Bolton that goes to Preston is Bolton station (BON), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Bolton to Preston is by train, with a cost of around kr30.
The train journey from Bolton to Preston offers a mix of urban and semi-rural scenery, with views of the Greater Manchester area's industrial heritage gradually transitioning to the more open landscapes of Lancashire.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Bolton to Preston. The journey takes just 19m with a frequency of 7 trips per day for trains, covering a distance of 17 miles (28 km).
To fully experience Preston's main attractions and local culture, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Bolton to Preston.
Since neither Bolton nor Preston 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 Preston include London, Blackburn, Manchester, Lancaster, Liverpool.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bolton to Preston 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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help ensure safety.
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 Preston
Most Bolton to Preston trains use the Bolton to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Bolton and Preston 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 Preston
Which Bolton station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Bolton to Preston 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 · kr16 · every ~79 min
125 · 15m · kr72 · 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.
Which Preston station do trains from Bolton arrive at?
Trains from Bolton to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · kr72 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Bolton
More options for your journey from Bolton to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Bolton
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