Bolton to Preston train with Northern Rail

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Northern Rail
Transpennine Express
TransPennine Express
Northern Trains Limited
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Northern Rail
Transpennine Express
TransPennine Express
Northern Trains Limited
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Bolton to Preston

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$6

Average price

$10

Fastest journey

19 m

Average duration

24 m

Trains per day

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 $10 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $6.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Bolton for Preston on Sun, Jun 21, 6 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 28 km distance in an average of 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 19 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 35 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.

  • Northern RailG89565
    12:19 PM0h35
    Bolton station (BON)
    12:54 PMPreston station (PRE)
    $61One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailC31906
    11:18 AM0h35
    Bolton station (BON)
    11:53 AMPreston station (PRE)
    $61One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailC31721
    10:12 AM0h23
    Bolton station (BON)
    10:35 AMPreston station (PRE)
    $121One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailG89066
    12:08 PM0h25
    Bolton station (BON)
    12:33 PMPreston station (PRE)
    $121One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transpennine ExpressW85178
    10:44 AM0h20
    Bolton station (BON)
    11:04 AMPreston station (PRE)
    $131One-way
    0 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 prices starting from $3. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $3, and a bus costs an average of $11.

Distance: 17 miles (28 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$7

Average price

Cheapest

$13

Average price

$8

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

57m

Average total duration

Fastest

27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 24m

Average total duration

54m

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

Northern Rail

Most popular train company

National Express

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 $7 (€6).

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

A train is $5 (€4) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Bolton to Preston costing on average $13 (€10).

The fastest way to travel from Bolton to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 27m.

Other travel options to Preston take longer:

Bus takes on average 54m.

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. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 15m faster (27m by train vs 42m by car) and roughly $0.44 (€0.36) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($7 (€6) vs $8 (€6)). 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 Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited.

Driving is still worth considering if you 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 tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Northern RailC3172110:12 AM Bolton station (BON)
0h23
10:35 AM Preston station (PRE)0 transfersDirect
Transpennine ExpressW8517810:44 AM Bolton station (BON)
0h20
11:04 AM Preston station (PRE)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailC3190611:18 AM Bolton station (BON)
0h35
11:53 AM Preston station (PRE)0 transfersDirect
Transpennine ExpressW8518011:44 AM Bolton station (BON)
0h19
12:03 PM Preston station (PRE)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG8906612:08 PM Bolton station (BON)
0h25
12:33 PM Preston station (PRE)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG8956512:19 PM Bolton station (BON)
0h35
12:54 PM 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
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

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
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bolton to Preston run on average 9 times per day, taking around 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $3 (€3) if you book in advance.

There are 9 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 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
17 miles (28 km)
Average train duration
27m
Cheapest ticket price
$3 (€3)
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
9
Fastest train
24m
First train
12:24 AM
Last train
11:56 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Fri
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, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited from Bolton to Preston trainsNorthern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Bolton and Preston from $3 (€3). 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
24m
Cheapest Price
$3 (€3)
Northern Rail frequency
7 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 Duration
20m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
Transpennine Express frequency
2 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

TransPennine Express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
19m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
TransPennine Express frequency
5 a day

Northern Trains Limited

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
23m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
Northern Trains Limited frequency
19 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bolton to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $3 (€3), while the average price is around $7 (€6).
The train from Bolton to Preston takes 24m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Bolton to Preston is 17 miles (28 km).
The first train from Bolton to Preston leaves at 12:24 AM.
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 9 times per day, provided by Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited.
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 $3 (€3).
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 24m 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 train 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 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.

Hall I' Th' WoodHall-i'-th'-Wood station, Crompton Way, Hall-i'-th'-Wood, Lancashire, BL1 8UFParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Hall I' Th' Wood from Bolton city centre

Hall I' Th' Wood is 2 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainManchester Victoria - Blackburn, Rochdale - Blackburn, Manchester Victoria - Clitheroe, Rochdale - Clitheroe, Rochdale - Ribblehead, Bolton - Blackburn, Bolton - Clitheroe, Bolton - Ribblehead · 5m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus507, 541, 533, 480 · 7m · $2 · every ~19 min

Hall I' Th' Wood train station facilities and services

Hall I' Th' Wood has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

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.

More options for your journey from Bolton to Preston

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone