This websites requires JavaScript to work. It looks like your browser doesn't support JavaScript, or has it turned off. Please try again with JavaScript support.

70% of our customers find a cheaper split ticket, saving £25 on average

Trains from Bolton to
Reading

Search for Split Tickets to get the Cheapest Fares (save up to 90%)

No card or booking fees

Bolton to Reading by train

A train trip from Bolton to Reading takes about 4hrs 33 mins on average, covering roughly 158 miles (255 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 £37.60, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bolton to Reading Key Stats

Arrival Station

Reading

Departure Station

Bolton

Frequency

16trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 43 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:54 / 00:24

Distance

158miles
(255 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£37.60

Travelling from Bolton to Reading by Train

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

Planning to travel from Bolton to Reading 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 4hrs 33 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Reading), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 43 mins. With roughly 16 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 158-mile (255 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of CrossCountry, Northern Rail, 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 £37.60 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 Reading!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bolton and Reading

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

The travel time between Bolton and Reading by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 33 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 43 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Bolton to Reading is 3hrs 43 mins.

How much does the train from Bolton to Reading cost?

Train ticket prices from Bolton to Reading can start from as little as £37.60 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 Reading?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bolton and Reading 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 06:54, 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 Reading?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Bolton and Reading?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Bolton & Reading. However, there are 16 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Bolton to Reading?

CrossCountry, Northern Rail and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Bolton and Reading.

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

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

When are Bolton to Reading Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bolton to Reading on Sunday 27th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Sunday 27th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
23:25 Bolton08:48 Reading1 changeManchester Piccadilly
9 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bolton to Reading 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 Reading start from as little as £37.60

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 Reading start from £89.30 one way, or £115.20 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 Reading are available for £121.40 one way, or £242.60 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 Reading is £34.60 & the average saving on this route is £34.60!

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 Reading Station

Exploring Reading Train Station

Nestled in the heart of Berkshire, Reading Train Station serves as a key gateway for countless travelers. Balancing its historic charm with modern advancements, the station offers seamless connectivity across the UK. Conveniently positioned on the Great Western Main Line, it opens up quick travel interludes to both London and beyond. Whether you're a commuter, a tourist, or perhaps just someone wandering the British railways, Reading Station is geared to meet various travel needs.

Facilities at Reading Station

Understanding the potential needs of its patrons, Reading Station furnishes extensive facilities. The ticket office operates from morning to night, opening from 06:15 to 22:00 during weekdays and Saturdays, and from 07:15 to 22:00 on Sundays. In addition, ticket machines are plentiful, and most importantly, accessible ticket machines are conveniently located for easy access. Reading Station also facilitates smart card validation, boasts an induction loop, and is reinforced with round-the-clock CCTV.

Accessibility, naturally, is a top priority here. The station provides step-free access throughout its vast span, making platforms easily reachable via lifts and bridges. Furthermore, accessible toilets, waiting rooms, and seating areas are maintained to high standards, ensuring comfort for everyone.

Shopping and dining options are abundant. Refreshment facilities, cash machines, and a selection of shops await travelers. Free public Wi-Fi adds to the comfort, making it easier to continue working or stay entertained while on the move.

Onward Travel Options

Getting to your next destination is seamless with Reading Station's diverse travel connections. Taxi ranks are readily available at both station entrances, ensuring even those with accessibility needs are well-catered to. Buses, too, are nearby, although travelers should note that not all are accessible. For those traveling further afield, frequent connections to both Heathrow and Gatwick Airports are offered, with a luxurious 'RailAir' service to Heathrow and regular trains to Gatwick.

Meanwhile, cyclists can take advantage of plentiful bicycle storage options, although there's no hire facility at the station itself.

Popular Travel Routes from Reading

Reading's strategic location makes it a springboard for numerous journeys. For instance, you can plan rides between Reading and London Paddington, a route popular with both business travelers and tourists. If local travel is on your mind, consider the quick jaunts to locations such as Wokingham or a slightly longer trip to Oxford, famed for its prestigious university and serene landscapes.

Other notable routes include travels to Basingstoke and Gatwick Airport. Whether you're heading for a day out in the country or catching a flight, these connections speak volumes about the station's versatility.

Your Next Journey

In conclusion, Reading Train Station integrates tradition with contemporary demands, catering to an ever-growing community of travelers. With its rich array of services, useful amenities, and robust connectivity options, it’s undoubtedly an essential part of the UK's railway network. Should your next journey be one of the popular routes Reading offers—perhaps venturing towards bustling city life or serene countryside—you can rest assured that the station's comprehensive services will meet your needs splendidly. Don't miss the chance to explore what makes Reading not just a passageway, but a destination in its own right. Happy travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Bolton