MANCHESTER to BOLTON train from €2 with Northern Rail

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Bolton

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

€3

Average ticket price on Sep 20

€4

Fastest journey on Sep 20

12 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

13 m

Trains on Sep 20

Distance

17 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Manchester to Bolton will cost around €4 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €3.

Fast trains

On Sun, Sep 20, we found 6 trains from Manchester to Bolton, including 6 direct services.

On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 17 km distance in an average of 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 12 m .

On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 13 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.

P24039
9:45 AM0h18
Manchester Victoria (MCV)
10:03 AMBolton station (BON)
€31One-way
0 transfers
C31900
9:08 AM0h13
Deansgate (DGT)
9:21 AMBolton station (BON)
€31One-way
0 transfers
C31897
8:05 AM0h13
Deansgate (DGT)
8:18 AMBolton station (BON)
€31One-way
0 transfers
C31906
11:05 AM0h13
Deansgate (DGT)
11:18 AMBolton station (BON)
€41One-way
0 transfers
G89064
8:56 AM0h12
Manchester Victoria (MCV)
9:08 AMBolton station (BON)
€41One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Manchester to Bolton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €4 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 46m. 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 €4, while a bus costs an average of €4.

Distance: 10 miles (17 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Driving
€4 Average price Cheapest	€4 Average price	€5 Average price (fuel + tolls)
46m Average total duration Fastest 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	1h 2m Average total duration 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	34m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.0 - 0.0kg 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 Manchester to Bolton is a train with an average price of €4.

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

A train is €0.23 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Manchester to Bolton costing on average €4.

The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Bolton is by train with an average journey time of 16m.

Other travel options to Bolton take longer:

Bus takes on average 32m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Bolton including taking a bus and train.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Bolton among Omio's users.

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

The journey is about 18m faster (16m by train vs 34m by car) and roughly €0.50 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls (€4 vs €5). 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.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Manchester to Bolton train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Bolton 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
P28731	On time 6:08 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)	0h24	6:32 PM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
G89558	On time 6:08 PM Deansgate (DGT)	0h13	6:21 PM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
G90365	On time 6:15 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)	0h21	6:36 PM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
P28735	On time 6:33 PM Deansgate (DGT)	0h16	6:49 PM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
G89562	On time 6:39 PM Deansgate (DGT)	0h14	6:53 PM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
P24046	On time 6:43 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)	0h19	7:02 PM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
Sunday, September 20
C31897	8:05 AM Deansgate (DGT)	0h13	8:18 AM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
G89064	8:56 AM Manchester Victoria (MCV)	0h12	9:08 AM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
C31900	9:08 AM Deansgate (DGT)	0h13	9:21 AM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
P24039	9:45 AM Manchester Victoria (MCV)	0h18	10:03 AM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
C31721	9:58 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)	0h13	10:11 AM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
C31906	11:05 AM Deansgate (DGT)	0h13	11:18 AM Bolton station (BON)	0 transfersDirect
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Bolton by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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

Mon
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Tue
Sep 22

Wed
Sep 23

Thu
Sep 24

Fri
Sep 25

Sat
Sep 26

Why should you book Manchester to Bolton trains with Omio?

Northern Rail as well as Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Manchester to Bolton.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Bolton.

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 Manchester 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 Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Bolton.

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 Manchester to Bolton.
Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Bolton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Bolton

United Kingdom

Trains from Manchester to Bolton run on average 13 times per day, taking around 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €3 if you book in advance.

There are 13 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 10 miles (17 km) distance in 12m.

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

10 miles (17 km)

Average train duration

16m

Cheapest ticket price

€3

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

12m

First train

12:02 AM

Last train

11:55 PM

Cheapest Month

May

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sat

Least Busy Day

Wed

Best time to book

1 day

Price information

Train companies: Northern Rail from Manchester to Bolton trainsNorthern Rail trains will get you between Manchester and Bolton from €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 Northern Rail Duration

12m

Cheapest Northern Rail Price

€3

Northern Rail frequency

6 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

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

Bolton Museum and Art Gallery

Bolton's main museum and gallery with local history, archaeology, art, and aquarium displays in a central civic building.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Hall i' th' Wood Museum

Independent heritage museum exploring workers' lives, social history, and the district's industrial communities.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Smithills Hall

Restored country house museum with period rooms, collections, and family-friendly interpretation of Bolton's past.

View on map Visit website

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.

FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Bolton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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 Manchester to Bolton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €3, while the average price is around €4.

The train from Manchester to Bolton takes 12m and runs 13 per day.

The first train from Manchester to Bolton leaves at 12:02 AM.

The distance by train from Manchester to Bolton is 10 miles (17 km).

The last train from Manchester to Bolton leaves at 11:55 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Bolton.

Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester to Bolton. This service operates 13 times per day, provided by Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Bolton.

The train station in Manchester that goes to Bolton is Manchester Victoria (MCV), which connects to Bolton station (BON).

The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Bolton is by train, with a cost of around €3.

The train journey from Manchester to Bolton offers urban and suburban views, featuring glimpses of local architecture and greenery as it passes through Greater Manchester.

Yes, a day trip from Manchester to Bolton is feasible. The journey takes only 12m and covers a distance of 10 miles (17 km). There are 8 trains per day, making it convenient to travel back and forth.

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 Manchester to Bolton.

Since neither Manchester 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 Blackburn, Preston, Wigan, Rochdale, Westhoughton.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester 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 Manchester to Bolton

Most Manchester to Bolton trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Bolton station pair, with some services arriving at Lostock. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Bolton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Manchester

Arrival train stations in Bolton

Which Manchester station do trains to Bolton leave from?

Trains from Manchester to Bolton leave from Manchester Victoria. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Manchester city centre at Manchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WY.

Manchester VictoriaManchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WY Parking

City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester Victoria from Manchester city centre

TrainManchester Airport - Redcar Central, Manchester Airport - Saltburn, Manchester Airport - York, Manchester Piccadilly - York, Manchester Piccadilly - Redcar Central, Manchester Airport - Darlington, Manchester Airport - Sheffield, Liverpool Lime Street - Manchester Victoria, Manchester Airport - Scarborough, Manchester Airport - Hull, Manchester Airport - Huddersfield, Manchester Airport - Middlesbrough, Manchester Airport - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Leeds, Manchester Airport - Manchester Victoria · 10m · €1 · every ~3 min

Bus41, 135 · 5m · €2 · every ~32 min

T1 · 10m

X43 · 29m · every ~1 min

TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 5m · €2 · every ~23 min

Manchester Victoria train station facilities and services

Manchester Victoria has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Manchester Victoria.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester Victoria.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester Victoria: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Manchester Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Scooter Friendly Station - Step free access around the whole station via use of lifts between platforms 3-6, connection with Manchester Metrolink using ramps, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards Located near the ticket office, 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 about Manchester Victoria

Manchester PiccadillyPiccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester Piccadilly from Manchester city centre

Bus201, 203, 202, 205 · 1m · €2 · every ~56 min

TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line, Yellow Line · 3m · €2 · every ~47 min

Manchester Piccadilly train station facilities and services

Manchester Piccadilly has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.