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Trains from Bolton to
Watford Junction

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Bolton to Watford Junction by train

A train trip from Bolton to Watford Junction takes about 4hrs 45 mins on average, covering roughly 157 miles (253 kilometres). With around 17 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 £31.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bolton to Watford Junction Key Stats

Arrival Station

Watford Junction

Departure Station

Bolton

Frequency

17trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 53 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:54 / 00:24

Distance

157miles
(253 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.00

Travelling from Bolton to Watford Junction by Train

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

Planning to travel from Bolton to Watford Junction 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 45 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Watford Junction), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 53 mins. With roughly 17 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 157-mile (253 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of West Midlands Trains, 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 £31.00 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 Watford Junction!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bolton and Watford Junction

Curious about your trip from Bolton to Watford Junction? 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 Watford Junction by train?

The travel time between Bolton and Watford Junction by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 45 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 53 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Bolton to Watford Junction is 3hrs 53 mins.

How much does the train from Bolton to Watford Junction cost?

Train ticket prices from Bolton to Watford Junction can start from as little as £31.00 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 Watford Junction?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bolton and Watford Junction vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 17 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:54, 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 Watford Junction?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Bolton and Watford Junction?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Bolton & Watford Junction. However, there are 17 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Bolton to Watford Junction?

West Midlands Trains, Northern Rail and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Bolton and Watford Junction.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Bolton and Watford Junction?

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

When are Bolton to Watford Junction Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bolton to Watford Junction on Sunday 4th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Sunday 4th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
09:09 Bolton15:41 Watford Junction2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Milton Keynes Central
6 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
11:36 Bolton16:41 Watford Junction2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Milton Keynes Central
5 hrs 5 mins Get Tickets
12:35 Bolton17:41 Watford Junction2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Milton Keynes Central
5 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
13:36 Bolton18:41 Watford Junction2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Milton Keynes Central
5 hrs 5 mins Get Tickets
14:37 Bolton19:41 Watford Junction2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Milton Keynes Central
5 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
15:35 Bolton20:41 Watford Junction2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Milton Keynes Central
5 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
16:35 Bolton21:41 Watford Junction2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Milton Keynes Central
5 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
17:36 Bolton22:41 Watford Junction2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Milton Keynes Central
5 hrs 5 mins Get Tickets
18:54 Bolton00:50 Watford Junction2 changesManchester Piccadilly
Milton Keynes Central
5 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
19:20 Bolton04:00 Watford Junction2 changesPreston (Lancs)
Milton Keynes Central
8 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bolton to Watford Junction 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 Watford Junction start from as little as £31.00

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 Watford Junction start from £76.30 one way, or £109.00 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 Watford Junction are available for £189.30 one way, or £378.60 return

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

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

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 Watford Junction Station

Welcome to Watford Junction: Your Gateway to Adventure

Nestled in the heart of Hertfordshire, Watford Junction is much more than a train station—it's a hive of connectivity and convenience that's ready to whisk you away to your next destination. As one of the busiest stations in the UK, it serves as a crucial hub for both local commuters and long-distance travelers. Whether you're a daily commuter or an occasional traveler, understanding what Watford Junction has to offer can enhance your travel experience. Let's dive into its many features, facilities, and links to exciting destinations.

Facilities at Watford Junction: Meeting Every Need

Watford Junction is designed with the traveler in mind, offering a host of facilities to ensure a seamless journey. The ticket office is operational from 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM every day except Sunday when it opens at 6:30 AM—ideal for early risers and night owls alike. If you've purchased tickets online, you can conveniently collect them at the ticket machines located in the booking hall. For those requiring assistance, an induction loop is available, enhancing accessibility for travelers with hearing aids.

Step-free access throughout the station ensures it is user-friendly for all, including individuals with reduced mobility. Accessible toilets operated with a RADAR key are available, and assistance can be booked in advance for anyone needing extra help. For those using wheeled transport, ramps are available for train access, and there's a dedicated area with 19 accessible parking spaces in the car park.

Shopping and Refreshment Options

As you await your train, enjoy a variety of refreshment facilities available on-site. Grab a quick bite or a cup of coffee from one of the shops, and find an ATM machine for any last-minute cash needs. Although there is no public Wi-Fi, the fully stocked amenities ensure a comfortable wait. Unfortunately, there is no waiting room service, but seating areas are available.

Travel Connections at Watford Junction

One of the key attributes of Watford Junction is its extensive transport links. Should your journey require bus services, rail replacement buses operate from Bus Stop 1, and detailed onward travel information can be printed from available resources. There's even a direct bus connection to Heathrow Airport, making international travel hassle-free. Taxis and car hire services are readily accessible, ensuring you have multiple travel options at your disposal.

Popular Routes: Discover New Horizons

Venturing from Watford Junction is incredibly straightforward with an array of popular travel routes. Why not catch a train to the bustling heart of London and explore iconic sites by heading to London Euston? For a more localized experience, consider traveling to Harrow and Wealdstone or the lively Wembley Central. Dreaming of cultural hubs beyond the city? Take a ride over to Birmingham New Street, the gateway to the Midlands.

From local connections like Hemel Hempstead to grand journeys to Milton Keynes Central, Watford Junction is your starting point for adventure.

Stepping Into the Future

With its strategic location and impressive array of facilities and links, Watford Junction is not just a railway station—it's a community cornerstone and a starting point for so many adventures. Plan your next journey with confidence, knowing you're backed by robust services and extensive travel options. Whether your heart is set on the vibrancy of London or the picturesque countryside, Watford Junction gets you there efficiently. As with any travel plans, booking in advance can often secure the best ticket prices, and the convenience of digital tickets means you can board with ease.

So why wait? Embrace the possibilities with Watford Junction as your trusted guide. Safe travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

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