- 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 Milton Keynes to Bolton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$173
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$176
Fastest journey on Sep 20
6 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
7 h 52 m
Trains on Sep 20
2
Distance
205 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Milton Keynes to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Milton Keynes to Bolton will cost around $176 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $173.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Milton Keynes to Bolton without transferring at least once.
10:18 PM9h03Milton Keynes7:21 AMBolton$1731One-way2 transfers- 10:42 PM6h40Milton Keynes5:22 AMBolton$1801One-way1 transfer
- 10:42 PM6h40Milton Keynes5:22 AMBolton$1801One-way1 transfer
- 10:18 PM9h03Milton Keynes7:21 AMBolton$1731One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Milton Keynes to Bolton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Milton Keynes to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $53 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 34m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $53, while a train costs an average of $85.
Distance: 127 miles (205 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$85 Average price | $53 Average price Cheapest | $56 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 34m Average total duration Fastest 2h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 32m Average total duration 4h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Milton Keynes to Bolton is a bus with an average price of $53.
This is compared to other travel options from Milton Keynes to Bolton:
A bus is $32 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Milton Keynes to Bolton costing on average $85.
The fastest way to travel from Milton Keynes to Bolton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 4m.
Other travel options to Bolton take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 2m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Milton Keynes and Bolton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Milton Keynes to Bolton among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 52m sooner (2h 4m by train vs 2h 56m by car). Tickets start at around $85 compared to roughly $56 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Milton Keynes to Bolton train times
The table below shows live departures for Milton Keynes 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 | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W33559+ G89577 | On time 8:24 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC) | 2h28 | 10:52 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1 transfer | |
| W33559+P24052 | On time 8:24 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC) | 2h38 | 11:02 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1 transfer | |
| W33513+G89585 | On time 9:24 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC) | 2h28 | 11:52 AM Bolton station (BON) | 1 transfer | |
| W33680+G89593 | On time 10:24 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC) | 2h29 | 12:53 PM Bolton station (BON) | 1 transfer | |
| W33501+G89602 | On time 11:24 AM Milton Keynes Central (MKC) | 2h29 | 1:53 PM Bolton station (BON) | 1 transfer | |
| W33564+G89614 | On time 12:24 PM Milton Keynes Central (MKC) | 2h28 | 2:52 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 Milton Keynes 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.
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Sep 20
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Why should you book Milton Keynes to Bolton trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Milton Keynes to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Milton Keynes to Bolton.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Milton Keynes to Bolton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Milton Keynes to Bolton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Milton Keynes to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Milton Keynes to Bolton run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $58 but you can travel from only $32 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:52, the last at 22:10. The fastest train covers the 127 miles (205 km) distance in 2h 0m.
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 $32
Distance 127 miles (205 km) |
Average train duration 2h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 2h 0m |
First train 5:52 AM |
Last train 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 21 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 $32
Train companies: Avanti West Coast from Milton Keynes to Bolton trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Milton Keynes and Bolton from $32. 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 0m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$58
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 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
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 Milton Keynes to Bolton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Milton Keynes 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 Milton Keynes to Bolton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $58, while the average price is around $85.
The train from Milton Keynes to Bolton takes 2h 0m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Milton Keynes to Bolton is 127 miles (205 km).
The first train from Milton Keynes to Bolton leaves at 5:52 AM.
The last train from Milton Keynes to Bolton leaves at 10:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Milton Keynes to Bolton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Milton Keynes to Bolton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Milton Keynes to Bolton.
The train station in Milton Keynes that goes to Bolton is Milton Keynes Central (MKC), which connects to Bolton station (BON).
The cheapest way to get from Milton Keynes to Bolton is by bus, with a cost of around $32.
The train journey from Milton Keynes to Bolton offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, passing through areas like the Chiltern Hills and the outskirts of the Peak District, providing some scenic views alongside industrial and residential areas.
A day trip from Milton Keynes to Bolton is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 0m each way. However, there are 5 train trips per day, which may allow for flexible scheduling. The total distance for the journey is 127 miles (205 km).
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 Milton Keynes to Bolton.
Since neither Milton Keynes 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Milton Keynes 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 Milton Keynes to Bolton
Most Milton Keynes to Bolton trains use the Milton Keynes Central to Bolton station pair. Use this guide to compare Milton Keynes and Bolton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Milton Keynes
Arrival train stations in Bolton
Which Milton Keynes station do trains to Bolton leave from?
Trains from Milton Keynes to Bolton leave from Milton Keynes Central. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Milton Keynes city centre at Milton Keynes Central station, 302 Eldergate, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 1LA.
Milton Keynes CentralMilton Keynes Central station, 302 Eldergate, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 1LA+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to Milton Keynes Central from Milton Keynes city centre
Milton Keynes Central is 1 km from Milton Keynes city centre. Public transport options include:
BusMk1, X5 · 7m · $2 · every ~11 min
Milton Keynes Central train station facilities and services
Milton Keynes Central has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Milton Keynes Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Milton Keynes Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Milton Keynes Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Milton Keynes Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Milton Keynes Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Milton Keynes Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are accessible - situated on the concourse and at the front of the station outside the main entrance, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Bolton station do trains from Milton Keynes arrive at?
Trains from Milton Keynes 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 · $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.
Most popular train connections from Milton Keynes
More options for your journey from Milton Keynes to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bolton and Milton Keynes
Most popular train connections to Bolton
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