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Trains from Bolton to
Edinburgh

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Bolton to Edinburgh by train

A train trip from Bolton to Edinburgh takes about 3hrs 31 mins on average, covering roughly 167 miles (269 kilometres). With around 16 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £13.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bolton to Edinburgh Key Stats

Arrival Station

Edinburgh

Departure Station

Bolton

Frequency

16trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 54 mins

Changes

06 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:38 / 00:24

Distance

167miles
(269 km)

3 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£13.00

Travelling from Bolton to Edinburgh by Train

Hop on a Train from Bolton to Edinburgh – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Bolton to Edinburgh by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 3hrs 31 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Edinburgh), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 54 mins. With roughly 16 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 167-mile (269 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail, ScotRail, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £13.00 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Edinburgh!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bolton and Edinburgh

Curious about your trip from Bolton to Edinburgh? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Bolton and Edinburgh by train?

The travel time between Bolton and Edinburgh by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 31 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 54 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Bolton and Edinburgh by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Bolton to Edinburgh is 2hrs 54 mins.

How much does the train from Bolton to Edinburgh cost?

Train ticket prices from Bolton to Edinburgh can start from as little as £13.00 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Bolton and Edinburgh?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bolton and Edinburgh vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 16 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:38, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:24.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Bolton and Edinburgh?

First class tickets on trains between Bolton and Edinburgh typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Bolton and Edinburgh?

Amenities on trains between Bolton and Edinburgh can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Bolton to Edinburgh by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Bolton and Edinburgh. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Edinburgh, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Bolton to Edinburgh?

Yes! There are usually around 6 direct services per day from Bolton to Edinburgh

What train companies run services from Bolton to Edinburgh?

Avanti West Coast, First TransPennine Express, Northern Rail and ScotRail are the main train operating companies running services between Bolton and Edinburgh.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Bolton and Edinburgh?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Bolton and Edinburgh, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Bolton to Edinburgh Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bolton to Edinburgh on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:38 Bolton09:40 EdinburghDirect3 hrs 2 mins Get Tickets
06:52 Bolton10:18 Edinburgh1 changePreston (Lancs)
3 hrs 26 mins Get Tickets
08:38 Bolton11:37 EdinburghDirect2 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
09:09 Bolton12:20 Edinburgh1 changePreston (Lancs)
3 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
10:38 Bolton13:32 EdinburghDirect2 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
11:08 Bolton14:19 Edinburgh1 changePreston (Lancs)
3 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
12:38 Bolton15:37 EdinburghDirect2 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
12:54 Bolton16:18 Edinburgh1 changePreston (Lancs)
3 hrs 24 mins Get Tickets
14:39 Bolton17:40 EdinburghDirect3 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
15:08 Bolton18:21 Edinburgh1 changePreston (Lancs)
3 hrs 13 mins Get Tickets
16:08 Bolton19:40 Edinburgh1 changePreston (Lancs)
3 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
17:08 Bolton20:24 Edinburgh1 changePreston (Lancs)
3 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bolton to Edinburgh journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Bolton to Edinburgh start from as little as £13.00

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Bolton to Edinburgh start from £69.40 one way, or £74.20 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Bolton to Edinburgh are available for £54.40 one way, or £108.80 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Bolton to Edinburgh is £20.25 & the average saving on this route is £11.64!

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Bolton Station

Welcome to Bolton Train Station: Your Gateway to the Greater Manchester Area

Nestled in the heart of the vibrant town of Bolton, the train station offers more than just a convenient spot for catching your next train. Whether you're embarking on a quick commute to Manchester, planning a relaxing weekend at the coast, or venturing further afield, Bolton train station serves as a vital link in your journey. Here, we delve into what makes this station a cornerstone of local and regional travel, boasting an array of facilities, seamless connections, and exciting destinations easily accessible by rail.

Facilities and Amenities

Bolton train station is well-equipped to cater to any traveler's needs. With a ticket office operating from 06:00 to 21:00 on weekdays and slightly reduced hours on Sundays, obtaining and collecting tickets is straightforward. Numerous ticket machines are available for those who prefer a swift, automated service, and these cater to both cash and card transactions. The station champions accessibility, ensuring step-free access throughout the premises, including lifts to all platforms, which makes it a Category A station.

For those needing assistance, Bolton station offers staff-support options, although customer help points are absent. Amenities at the station include clean, accessible toilets, baby changing facilities, and cozy waiting rooms—between platforms for your comfort while awaiting departure. CCTV ensures a safe environment as you explore the variety of refreshment facilities and the newsagent available on-site.

Transport Connections and Options for Onward Travel

Getting from Bolton Station to your onward destination is as easy as pie. Newport Street is home to a coordinated rail replacement service, while a robust bus network connects you to bustling locales throughout Greater Manchester. The bus services are supported by printable information available here to aid in planning. Bicycle enthusiasts will be thrilled to hear of the bicycle hire options detailed at cycling.tfgm.com, offering a green alternative for exploring the local area.

Popular Destinations

Connecting to an impressive array of destinations, Bolton train station can be your first stop en route to fascinating places. Whether you're heading to the bustling streets of Manchester, just a short journey away with options such as Manchester Victoria, Manchester Oxford Road, or Manchester Piccadilly, or venturing to the scenic coasts of Blackpool North, the station serves as a convenient hub. Commuters find regular routes to places like Manchester Airport and Preston, while weekend travelers enjoy connections to dramatic landscapes like Lancaster and the vibrant nightlife of Liverpool Lime Street.

Join Us on a Journey from Bolton Train Station

As you plan your next trip, consider all the benefits Bolton train station has to offer. Not just a starting point for adventures across the UK, it’s the beginning of a journey thoughtfully served by comprehensive facilities ensuring ease, safety, and accessibility. Ready to hit the rails? Opt for convenience and efficiency by choosing to travel with Bolton Station, where your journey begins in comfort and ends with memories.

Everything you need to know about Edinburgh Station

Welcome to Edinburgh Train Station

Nestled in the heart of Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh Train Station stands as a bustling gateway to the vibrant city of Edinburgh and beyond. Known officially as Edinburgh Waverley, this station is not just a hub for commuters and travelers but a historical marvel worth exploring. Whether you're catching a train, planning a leisurely exploration of Scotland's scenic landscapes, or simply passing through, this station offers an abundance of amenities and connections that make your journey seamless and enjoyable.

The Heart of Edinburgh's Rail Network

Edinburgh Waverley is a sizable station where modern conveniences blend with historical charm. Travelers will find a ticket office that opens early in the morning and stays available late into the evening, along with plenty of automated machines for quick purchases or online order collections. Accessibility is a key focus at Waverley, with ample step-free access throughout the station via lifts and escalators, and essential amenities like accessible toilets and ramps for easy train access.

If you need assistance or have questions, helpful staff and customer information points are scattered throughout the station. Rest assured, luggage storage and lost property services managed by the Excess Baggage Company are also available in this bustling transportation hub.

Station Amenities

Edinburgh Waverley comes well-equipped with facilities to enhance your travel experience. A wide range of outlets awaits, from cozy coffee shops to a variety of food options with seating areas to relax before your journey. Travelers can also take advantage of the free parking and the impressive bicycle accommodations, with 223 storage spaces available throughout the station and car park. If connectivity is your concern, the robust public Wi-Fi, convenient payphones, and currency exchange services might just set your mind at ease.

Transport Links to Keep You Moving

Edinburgh Waverley is well integrated into the city's transport network. Convenient bus services from Lothian Buses are available, and they promise easy, step-free access. Are you heading to the airport? The 'Airlink 100' express shuttle directly connects you to Edinburgh Airport. Also, consider the Edinburgh Tram for straightforward commuting around town. Taxis are easily accessible on Market Street and Waverley Bridge for direct rides within the city. Whether it's a temporary rail replacement with scuttling buses or onward journeys, the station ensures you're never stranded.

For further exploration, why not hop on a train to popular destinations? Journey from Edinburgh to Glasgow Queen Street or venture further south with a scenic ride to London Kings Cross. Travel times are quick and efficient, making these routes ideal for both business trips and leisurely weekends. Adventure-seekers may also enjoy routes that lead to historic spots like Inverkeithing or the bracing seaside town of North Berwick.

Inspiration Awaits Beyond Edinburgh

From Edinburgh Station, the rich cultural tapestry of Scotland is just a train ride away. Whether you're considering trips to nearby attractions like Newcastle or York, or off the beaten path to places like Aberdeen, your journey will be as memorable as the destination. In this vibrant nexus of Scottish rail travel, every route offers a unique narrative and promises experiences waiting to be explored.

Concluding Your Edinburgh Adventure

Edinburgh Waverley is not just a station; it's a narrative starting point for countless adventures and memories. So the next time you're planning a trip, remember to explore the diverse options this historical hub offers. Revel in the convenience, relish the modern amenities, and let the tales of your journey unravel from this pivotal spot. Whether you're a local commuter or a seasonal traveler passing through, Edinburgh's charm awaits, ready to be part of your story.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Bolton