- Recommended
Bolton Museum and Art Gallery
Bolton's main museum and gallery with local history, archaeology, art, and aquarium displays in a central civic building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Glasgow to Bolton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 17
Cheapest price on Sep 17
€57
Average ticket price on Sep 17
€82
Fastest journey on Sep 17
2 h 54 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
3 h 3 m
Trains on Sep 17
6
Distance
279 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Glasgow to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Glasgow to Bolton will cost around €82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €57.
Fast trains
On Thu, Sep 17, we found 6 trains from Glasgow to Bolton, including 1 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 17 the direct trains cover the 279 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 54 m .
On Thu, Sep 17 the slowest trains will take 3 h 20 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.
W849151:09 PM2h57Glasgow Central (GLC)4:06 PMBolton station (BON)€571One-way0 transfers- W84888 · W8491212:04 PM3h02Glasgow Central (GLC)3:06 PMBolton station (BON)€571One-way1 transfer
C01365+W849181:38 PM3h28Glasgow Central (GLC)5:06 PMBolton station (BON)€951One-way1 transfer- W34050+
G898732:34 PM3h00Glasgow Central (GLC)5:34 PMBolton station (BON)€951One-way1 transfer - W33889+G898211:33 PM3h20Glasgow Central (GLC)4:53 PMBolton station (BON)€951One-way1 transfer
- W34063+G8988912:40 PM2h54Glasgow Central (GLC)3:34 PMBolton station (BON)€951One-way1 transfer
- W849151:09 PM2h57Glasgow Central (GLC)4:06 PMBolton station (BON)€571One-way0 transfers
- W34050+G898732:34 PM3h00Glasgow Central (GLC)5:34 PMBolton station (BON)€951One-way1 transfer
- W84888 · W8491212:04 PM3h02Glasgow Central (GLC)3:06 PMBolton station (BON)€571One-way1 transfer
- W33889+G898211:33 PM3h20Glasgow Central (GLC)4:53 PMBolton station (BON)€951One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Glasgow to Bolton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Glasgow to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €47 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 20m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €47, while a flight costs an average of €392.
Distance: 173 miles (279 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€66 Average price | €47 Average price Cheapest | €392 Average price | €95 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 20m Average total duration Fastest 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 46m Average total duration 8h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration 2h 30m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 3h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | 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 Glasgow to Bolton is a bus with an average price of €47.
This is compared to other travel options from Glasgow to Bolton:
A bus is €19 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Glasgow to Bolton costing on average €66.
A bus is €345 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Glasgow to Bolton costing on average €392.
The fastest way to travel from Glasgow to Bolton is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 30m.
Other travel options to Bolton take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 50m.
Bus takes on average 8h 16m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Glasgow and Bolton including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Glasgow to Bolton among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 40m faster (2h 50m by train vs 3h 30m by car) and roughly €29 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€66 vs €95). 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.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Glasgow to Bolton train times
The table below shows live departures for Glasgow to Bolton trains for tomorrow, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W84888 · W84912 | 12:04 PM Glasgow Central (GLC) | 3h02 | 3:06 PM Bolton station (BON) | 1 transfer | |
| W34063+G89889 | 12:40 PM Glasgow Central (GLC) | 2h54 | 3:34 PM Bolton station (BON) | 1 transfer | |
| W84915 | 1:09 PM Glasgow Central (GLC) | 2h57 | 4:06 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W33889+G89821 | 1:33 PM Glasgow Central (GLC) | 3h20 | 4:53 PM Bolton station (BON) | 1 transfer | |
| C01365+W84918 | 1:38 PM Glasgow Central (GLC) | 3h28 | 5:06 PM Bolton station (BON) | 1 transfer | |
| W34050+G89873 | 2:34 PM Glasgow Central (GLC) | 3h00 | 5:34 PM Bolton station (BON) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Glasgow to Bolton by train, bus, or flight
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.
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Why should you book Glasgow to Bolton trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, TransPennine Express and more offer trains services from Glasgow to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Glasgow to Bolton.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Glasgow to Bolton.
- 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Glasgow to Bolton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Glasgow to Bolton.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Glasgow to Bolton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Glasgow to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Glasgow to Bolton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €24 but you can travel from only €20 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:22, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 173 miles (279 km) distance in 2h 34m.
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 €20
Distance 173 miles (279 km) |
Average train duration 2h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price €24 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 2h 34m |
First train 4:22 AM |
Last train 11:36 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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 €20
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express from Glasgow to Bolton trainsAvanti West Coast, Transpennine Express trains will get you between Glasgow and Bolton from €20. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 34m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
€25
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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
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 55m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
€24
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 Bolton
Things to do in Bolton
Discover the best of Bolton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bolton trip today.
- Recommended
Hall i' th' Wood Museum
Independent heritage museum exploring workers' lives, social history, and the district's industrial communities.
- Recommended
Smithills Hall
Restored country house museum with period rooms, collections, and family-friendly interpretation of Bolton's past.
- Must visit
Rivington Terraced Gardens
Historic landscaped hillside with paths, follies, and broad views; one of the area's most loved walking destinations.
- Must visit
Rivington Country Park
Major country park around reservoirs and moorland, ideal for scenic walks, cycling, and panoramic viewpoints.
- Recommended
Winter Hill
Popular upland walking area with sweeping views from Winter Hill and access to moorland trails above Bolton.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
A hearty Lancashire hotpot of lamb or mutton, onions and potatoes, slow-cooked in one pot. It is a classic Greater Manchester and Lancashire comfort dish.
Meat And Potato Pie
A flaky pastry pie filled with seasoned minced beef and onion. Strongly associated with nearby Wigan and widely loved across Bolton and Greater Manchester.
Rag Pudding
A suet pudding of beef and onion steamed in cloth or a basin. This old Lancashire staple is traditional in local pubs and family kitchens.
Spice Valley
Well-regarded Indian restaurant known for polished service, stylish interiors and refined curries and grills. Suitable for a more upscale meal in Bolton.
Ciao Napoli
Established casual restaurant serving Turkish and Mediterranean grills, meze and flatbreads in a lively modern setting.
The Bob Smithy Inn
Popular traditional pub and dining venue beside Moss Bank Park, known for cask ales, British classics and a relaxed local atmosphere.
British pound sterling (£)
Bolton is generally cheaper than London and many major UK cities, with lower hotel, dining, and local transport costs for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £6-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Bolton Station -> Bolton Interchange
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Bee Network buses in Greater Manchester, with daily and weekly fare capping.
- Bolton rail and bus services are planned well in the Bee Network app. Check the operator before travel, as train fares are separate from bus fares.
FAQs: Trains from Glasgow to Bolton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Glasgow to Bolton 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 Bolton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Glasgow to Bolton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €24, while the average price is around €66.
The train from Glasgow to Bolton takes 2h 34m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Glasgow to Bolton leaves at 4:22 AM.
The distance by train from Glasgow to Bolton is 173 miles (279 km).
The last train from Glasgow to Bolton leaves at 11:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Glasgow to Bolton.
Yes, there is a direct train from Glasgow to Bolton. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by TransPennine Express.
Yes, there is a night train from Glasgow to Bolton.
The train station in Glasgow that goes to Bolton is Glasgow Central (GLC), which connects to Bolton station (BON).
The cheapest way to get from Glasgow to Bolton is by bus, with a cost of around €20.
The train journey from Glasgow to Bolton offers scenic views of the rolling hills and countryside of southern Scotland and northern England, including glimpses of the picturesque Lake District.
A day trip from Glasgow to Bolton is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 34m. The distance is 173 miles (279 km). There are 5 train trips available per day.
To explore Bolton's key attractions, such as the Bolton Museum, Smithills Hall, and the West Pennine Moors, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Glasgow to Bolton.
Since neither Glasgow nor Bolton 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 Bolton include Manchester, Blackburn, Preston, Wigan, Rochdale.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Glasgow to Bolton 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 Bolton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in busy areas such as markets and public transport hubs. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and stay aware of surroundings, especially at night.
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 Glasgow to Bolton
Most Glasgow to Bolton trains use the Glasgow Central to Bolton station pair. Use this guide to compare Glasgow and Bolton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Glasgow
Arrival train stations in Bolton
Glasgow CentralGordon St, Glasgow G1 3SL, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Glasgow Central from Glasgow city centre
Bus18, 10, 6, X8, N267, 18A, 75, 7A, 7, N18, 263, 267 · 2m · €2 · every ~78 min
SubwaySub · 26m · €2 · every ~57 min
Glasgow Central train station facilities and services
Glasgow Central 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, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King, Krispy Kreme, Gordon St Coffee, Starbucks, Upper Crust, The Beer House, Patisserie Valerie, Alston Bar & Beef
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are there is an ATM machine located on the concourse.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 09:15 - 21:30. Information desks are there is a customer service center in the station located next to the ticket office.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage storage facilities are located near Platform 1 operated by Excess Baggage Co. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Glasgow Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Glasgow Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Glasgow Central: There is step-free access in the whole station via elevators and ramps for train access. There are also escalators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotel Indigo Glasgow, Radisson Blu Hotel, Glasgow, voco Grand Central Glasgow.
Which Bolton station do trains from Glasgow arrive at?
Trains from Glasgow to Bolton arrive at Bolton. Bolton is 0 miles (1 km) from Bolton city centre.
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 · €9 · 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.
More options for your journey from Glasgow to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bolton and Glasgow
Most popular train connections to Bolton
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