Manchester to Bolton train with Northern Rail

Thu, Aug 06
+ 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
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Bolton

Showing times and prices for Aug 06

Cheapest price

$4

Average price

$5

Fastest journey

13 m

Average duration

15 m

Trains per day

8

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 $5 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $4.

Fast trains

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.

  • Northern Rail
    10:24 PM0h13
    Manchester
    10:37 PMBolton
    $41One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern Rail
    6:09 AM0h22
    Manchester
    6:31 AMBolton
    $41One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern Rail
    5:32 AM0h17
    Manchester
    5:49 AMBolton
    $41One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern Rail
    7:33 AM0h16
    Manchester
    7:49 AMBolton
    $41One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern Rail
    8:33 AM0h16
    Manchester
    8:49 AMBolton
    $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 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)

Compare train with

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

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 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 $0.79 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Manchester to Bolton costing on average $5.

The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Bolton is by train with an average journey time of 17m.

Other travel options to Bolton take longer:

Bus takes on average 38m.

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 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.

Live departures

Manchester to Bolton train times

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.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Northern RailG89045
On time
9:56 AM Deansgate (DGT)
0h12
10:08 AM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG89573
On time
10:08 AM Deansgate (DGT)
0h13
10:21 AM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG89589
On time
12:08 PM Deansgate (DGT)
0h13
12:21 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailP28672
On time
12:09 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0h22
12:31 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG85312
On time
12:15 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0h19
12:34 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailP28677
On time
12:33 PM Deansgate (DGT)
0h16
12:49 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG89593
On time
12:39 PM Deansgate (DGT)
0h14
12:53 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailP24059
On time
12:44 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0h18
1:02 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG89583
On time
9:08 PM Deansgate (DGT)
0h13
9:21 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailL89435
On time
9:09 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0h22
9:31 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailP28759
On time
9:33 PM Deansgate (DGT)
0h16
9:49 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG89587
On time
9:39 PM Deansgate (DGT)
0h13
9:52 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailP24058
On time
9:43 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)
0h19
10:02 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG89591
On time
10:08 PM Deansgate (DGT)
0h13
10:21 PM Bolton station (BON)
0 transfersDirect
Thursday, August 6
Northern Rail5:32 AM Manchester
0h17
5:49 AM Bolton0 transfersDirect
Northern Rail6:09 AM Manchester
0h22
6:31 AM Bolton0 transfersDirect
Northern Rail7:33 AM Manchester
0h16
7:49 AM Bolton0 transfersDirect
Northern Rail8:33 AM Manchester
0h16
8:49 AM Bolton0 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.

Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Wed
Aug 12

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.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Manchester to Bolton?

The best time to book your train from Manchester to Bolton is 5 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Manchester to Bolton route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Manchester to Bolton per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Manchester to Bolton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Bolton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

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.

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
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
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 Manchester to Bolton trainsNorthern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Manchester and Bolton from $2. 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
12m
Cheapest Price
$2
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
12m
Cheapest Price
$4
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
11m
Cheapest Price
$27
TransPennine Express frequency
9 a day

Northern Trains Limited

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14m
Cheapest Price
$7
Northern Trains Limited frequency
16 a day

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.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Bolton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $2, while the average price is around $4.
The train from Manchester to Bolton takes 12m and runs 9 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 9 times per day, provided by 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 $2.
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 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.

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 1WYParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

Manchester PiccadillyPiccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

Food and drink

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

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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.

Tickets and information

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 and lost property

Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.

Manchester Oxford RoadManchester Oxford Road station, Station Approach, Oxford Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 6FUParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester Oxford Road from Manchester city centre

Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 5m · $2 · every ~224 min
T1 · 1h 7m

Manchester Oxford Road train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink options are available at Manchester Oxford Road.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester Oxford Road.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

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.

Most popular train connections to Bolton

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