- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Bolton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$137
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$137
Fastest journey on Sep 20
6 h 59 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
6 h 59 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
256 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Bolton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Bolton will cost around $137 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $137.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Reading to Bolton, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 256 km distance in an average of 6 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 59 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 6 h 59 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.
7:21 AM6h59Reading2:20 PMBolton$1371One-way0 transfers
- 7:21 AM6h59Reading2:20 PMBolton$1371One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Reading to Bolton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Bolton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $106 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 41m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $106, while a train costs an average of $145.
Distance: 159 miles (256 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$145 Average price | $106 Average price Cheapest | $69 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 41m Average total duration Fastest 3h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 55m Average total duration 7h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 57m 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 Reading to Bolton is a bus with an average price of $106.
This is compared to other travel options from Reading to Bolton:
A bus is $39 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Reading to Bolton costing on average $145.
A bus is $414 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Reading to Bolton costing on average $520.
The fastest way to travel from Reading to Bolton is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 55m.
Other travel options to Bolton take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 11m.
Bus takes on average 7h 25m.
Yes, you can take a train between Reading and Bolton.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Reading 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 46m sooner (3h 11m by train vs 3h 57m by car). Tickets start at around $145 compared to roughly $69 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.
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Bolton by train
Compare 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
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Reading to Bolton trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Reading to Bolton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Bolton.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Reading 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Bolton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Bolton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Bolton run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $42 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 21:21. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (256 km) distance in 2h 51m.
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 159 miles (256 km) |
Average train duration 3h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 2h 51m |
First train 2:24 AM |
Last train 9:21 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 7 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: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry from Reading to Bolton trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry trains will get you between Reading and Bolton from $42. 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 51m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$145
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
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
3h 16m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$42
CrossCountry frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
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 Reading to Bolton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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 Reading to Bolton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $42, while the average price is around $145.
The train from Reading to Bolton takes 2h 51m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Reading to Bolton leaves at 2:24 AM.
The distance by train from Reading to Bolton is 159 miles (256 km).
The last train from Reading to Bolton leaves at 9:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Reading to Bolton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Bolton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Reading to Bolton.
The train station in Reading that goes to Bolton is Reading station (RDG), which connects to Lostock (LOT).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Bolton is by train, with a cost of around $42.
The train journey from Reading to Bolton offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, passing through the picturesque Chiltern Hills and the scenic countryside of the Midlands, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Reading to Bolton is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 51m. Trains run 4 times per day. The distance is 159 miles (256 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 Reading to Bolton.
Since neither Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading to Bolton
Most Reading to Bolton trains use the Reading to Lostock station pair, with some services arriving at Bolton. Use this guide to compare Reading and Bolton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Reading
Arrival train stations in Bolton
Which Reading station do trains to Bolton leave from?
Trains from Reading to Bolton leave from Reading. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ.
ReadingReading station, Station Hill, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 1LZ+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Reading from Reading city centre
Bus26, 90, 87 · 2m · $2 · every ~15 min
Reading train station facilities and services
Reading has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Reading.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Reading.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Reading.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Reading: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Reading: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Reading: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park, 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 Reading arrive at?
Trains from Reading to Bolton most often arrive at Lostock. Some services arrive at Bolton, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bolton arrival station.
LostockLostock station, Rumworth Road, Lostock, Greater Manchester, BL6 4JP+44 8002006060
City-centre transport
Getting to Lostock from Bolton city centre
Lostock is 4 km from Bolton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainManchester Airport - Blackpool North, Manchester Oxford Road - Blackpool North, Manchester Airport - Preston, Bolton - Corkickle, Bolton - Blackpool North, Bolton - Barrow-in-Furness, Bolton - Millom, Bolton - Windermere, Stockport - Blackpool North · 4m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus905, 930, 520 · 19m · $2 · every ~6 min
576, 575 · 21m · $2 · every ~20 min
Lostock train station facilities and services
Lostock has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lostock.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lostock: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Lostock: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
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.
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 Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Bolton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bolton and Reading
Most popular train connections to Bolton
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
