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Trains from Bolton to
Lancaster

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Bolton to Lancaster by train

A train trip from Bolton to Lancaster takes about 56 mins on average, covering roughly 36 miles (58 kilometres). With around 35 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 £4.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bolton to Lancaster Key Stats

Arrival Station

Lancaster

Departure Station

Bolton

Frequency

35trains
per day

Journey Time

from0hrs 36 mins

Changes

025 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:08 / 00:24

Distance

36miles
(58 km)

2 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£4.00

Travelling from Bolton to Lancaster by Train

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

Planning to travel from Bolton to Lancaster 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 56 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Lancaster), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 0hrs 36 mins. With roughly 35 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 36-mile (58 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, 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 £4.00 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 Lancaster!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bolton and Lancaster

Curious about your trip from Bolton to Lancaster? 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 Lancaster by train?

The travel time between Bolton and Lancaster by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 56 mins & the fastest journey takes 0hrs 36 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Bolton to Lancaster is 0hrs 36 mins.

How much does the train from Bolton to Lancaster cost?

Train ticket prices from Bolton to Lancaster can start from as little as £4.00 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 Lancaster?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bolton and Lancaster vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 35 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:08, 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 Lancaster?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Bolton and Lancaster?

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

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

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Bolton and Lancaster. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Lancaster, 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 Lancaster?

Yes! There are usually around 25 direct services per day from Bolton to Lancaster

What train companies run services from Bolton to Lancaster?

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

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

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

When are Bolton to Lancaster Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bolton to Lancaster 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
06:08 Bolton06:51 LancasterDirect43 mins Get Tickets
06:38 Bolton07:19 LancasterDirect41 mins Get Tickets
06:52 Bolton08:08 Lancaster1 changePreston (Lancs)
1 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
07:38 Bolton08:15 LancasterDirect37 mins Get Tickets
08:08 Bolton08:51 LancasterDirect43 mins Get Tickets
08:38 Bolton09:18 LancasterDirect40 mins Get Tickets
08:53 Bolton09:55 Lancaster1 changePreston (Lancs)
1 hrs 2 mins Get Tickets
09:09 Bolton10:02 LancasterDirect53 mins Get Tickets
09:38 Bolton10:21 LancasterDirect43 mins Get Tickets
10:08 Bolton10:50 LancasterDirect42 mins Get Tickets
10:38 Bolton11:14 LancasterDirect36 mins Get Tickets
11:08 Bolton11:55 Lancaster1 changePreston (Lancs)
47 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bolton to Lancaster 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 Lancaster start from as little as £4.00

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 Lancaster start from £20.70 one way, or £20.80 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 Lancaster are available for £22.90 one way, or £28.10 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 Lancaster is £6.40 & the average saving on this route is £4.43!

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 Lancaster Station

Welcome to Lancaster Train Station

Nestled in the heart of a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes, Lancaster Train Station is your gateway not only to the city but also to countless adventures across the United Kingdom. Whether you're planning a quick visit to nearby Preston or a journey to vibrant cities like Edinburgh or London, Lancaster station promises a seamless travel experience. With its array of facilities and connections, this station stands ready to serve travelers with varied needs, from daily commuters to international tourists.

Station Facilities and Accessibility

Lancaster Train Station is equipped with a range of facilities designed to enhance the traveler's journey. A welcoming ticket office is open daily from early morning until late evening and is complemented by ticket machines for those who prefer self-service. There’s good news for online purchasers too, as you can easily collect your tickets from the machines available on site. If accessibility is a priority, the station offers step-free access to all platforms, ensuring that everyone can navigate the station with ease. Additional support such as ramps, accessible ticket machines, and induction loops further enhance the station’s inclusivity.

Furthermore, the station aims to support travelers with amenities like accessible toilets and baby changing facilities. Waiting for your train doesn’t mean you’ll be left standing, as waiting rooms and ample seating arrangements are provided. Though there are no first-class lounges, everyone can enjoy the comfort offered in the waiting areas on platforms 3, 4, and 5.

Onward Travel and Connectivity

Once you’re ready to continue your journey from Lancaster, there are several transport options available to make your onward journey effortless. Taxis are conveniently located adjacent to platform 3, and for those who prefer a scenic route, Lancaster’s bus connections are readily available with an accessible rail replacement service area nearby. For cyclists, the station offers covered bicycle stands and even bicycle hire through Leisure Lakes Bikes, providing 188 cycle spaces spread across the platforms.

One brilliant aspect of Lancaster is its strategic location and how it connects you to popular destinations. You could easily catch one of the frequent trains to London Euston or plan a scenic escape to the Lake District by hopping on a train to Oxenholme from Lancaster Station. There are plenty of other exciting places to visit like Morecambe, Carlisle, and even further afield, Edinburgh Waverley.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Whether it's your first time visiting Lancaster or you’re a frequent traveler in the North West, Lancaster Train Station serves as more than just a transit point. Its rich offerings include not only efficiency and convenience but also a touch of the historic charm that the city is famous for. So, next time you’re traveling through, take a moment to use the facilities, perhaps indulge in a snack from the station's outlets, and feel at ease knowing that Lancaster Station is dedicated to meeting all your travel needs.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Lancaster Train Station is not just an entry and exit point but a gateway to exploring the rich texture of UK’s Northern region. With reliable facilities, seamless accessibility options, and excellent connectivity, your travel plans can unfold with ease and excitement. Remember to check for train times, book tickets in advance for the best fares, and enjoy the journey. And, as always, have a safe and pleasant trip from everyone here at Lancaster!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Bolton