- 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.
Cheapest price
$4
Average price
$5
Fastest journey
13 m
Average duration
15 m
Trains per day
8
Distance
17 km
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 $5 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $4.
Of the 8 trains that leave Manchester for Bolton on Thu, Aug 06, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 17 km distance in an average of 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 16 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.










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 prices starting from $2. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 17m. 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 $2, and a bus costs an average of $5.
Distance: 10 miles (17 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$4 Average price Cheapest | $5 Average price | $6 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
47m Average total duration Fastest 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 8m Average total duration 38m 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Bolton:
A train is $0.79 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Manchester to Bolton costing on average $5.
Other travel options to Bolton take longer:
Bus takes on average 38m.
The journey is about 17m faster (17m by train vs 34m by car) and roughly $1 cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($4 vs $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 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.
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Bolton trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G89045 | On time 9:56 AM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h12 | 10:08 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G89573 | On time 10:08 AM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h13 | 10:21 AM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G89589 | On time 12:08 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h13 | 12:21 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
P28672 | On time 12:09 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV) | 0h22 | 12:31 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G85312 | On time 12:15 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV) | 0h19 | 12:34 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
P28677 | On time 12:33 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h16 | 12:49 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G89593 | On time 12:39 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h14 | 12:53 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
P24059 | On time 12:44 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV) | 0h18 | 1:02 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G89583 | On time 9:08 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h13 | 9:21 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L89435 | On time 9:09 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV) | 0h22 | 9:31 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
P28759 | On time 9:33 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h16 | 9:49 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G89587 | On time 9:39 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h13 | 9:52 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
P24058 | On time 9:43 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV) | 0h19 | 10:02 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G89591 | On time 10:08 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h13 | 10:21 PM Bolton station (BON) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, August 6 | |||||
![]() | 5:32 AM Manchester | 0h17 | 5:49 AM Bolton | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 6:09 AM Manchester | 0h22 | 6:31 AM Bolton | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 7:33 AM Manchester | 0h16 | 7:49 AM Bolton | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:33 AM Manchester | 0h16 | 8:49 AM Bolton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Manchester to Bolton run on average 9 times per day, taking around 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $2 if you book in advance.
There are 9 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.
Distance 10 miles (17 km) |
Average train duration 17m |
Cheapest ticket price $2 |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 12m |
First train 12:02 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Bolton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bolton trip today.
Bolton's main museum and gallery with local history, archaeology, art, and aquarium displays in a central civic building.
Independent heritage museum exploring workers' lives, social history, and the district's industrial communities.
Restored country house museum with period rooms, collections, and family-friendly interpretation of Bolton's past.
Historic landscaped hillside with paths, follies, and broad views; one of the area's most loved walking destinations.
Major country park around reservoirs and moorland, ideal for scenic walks, cycling, and panoramic viewpoints.
Popular upland walking area with sweeping views from Winter Hill and access to moorland trails above Bolton.
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.
A flaky pastry pie filled with seasoned minced beef and onion. Strongly associated with nearby Wigan and widely loved across Bolton and Greater Manchester.
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.
Well-regarded Indian restaurant known for polished service, stylish interiors and refined curries and grills. Suitable for a more upscale meal in Bolton.
Established casual restaurant serving Turkish and Mediterranean grills, meze and flatbreads in a lively modern setting.
Popular traditional pub and dining venue beside Moss Bank Park, known for cask ales, British classics and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Bolton is generally cheaper than London and many major UK cities, with lower hotel, dining, and local transport costs for most visitors.
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.
Official public transport app
Bolton Station -> Bolton Interchange
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.

Most Manchester to Bolton trains use the Manchester Victoria 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.
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 options are available at Manchester Victoria.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Victoria.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Manchester Victoria: Parking, WC.
Available at Manchester Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
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.
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.
Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.
Manchester Oxford Road 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 options are available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Parking, WC.
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Oxford Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all, 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: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Bolton is 1 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
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 options are available at Bolton.
Wi-Fi is available at Bolton.
Ticket office support is available at Bolton.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Bolton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Bolton: Bike Parking.
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.
Lostock is 4 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
Lostock has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Ticket office support is available at Lostock.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Lostock: Parking.
Available at Lostock: Bike Parking.
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' Wood is 2 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
Hall I' Th' Wood has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Parking.
Available at Hall I' Th' Wood: Bike Parking.
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.
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