A train trip from Cardiff Central to Bolton takes about 4hrs 47 mins on average, covering roughly 148 miles (239 kilometres). With around 19 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 £26.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.
Arrival Station | Bolton |
|---|---|
Departure Station | Cardiff Central |
Frequency | 19trains per day |
Journey Time | from3hrs 58 mins |
Changes | 1-2no direct trains |
First Train / Last Train | 04:33 / 23:54 |
Distance | 148miles (239 km) |
3 Routes | Via Manchester Piccadilly Via Crewe & Manchester Piccadilly Via Newport (South Wales) & Manchester Piccadilly |
2 Train Operators | Northern Rail, Transport for Wales |
Prices | from£26.90 |
Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to Bolton – It’s Faster Than You Think!
Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Bolton 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 47 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Bolton), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 58 mins. With roughly 19 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 148-mile (239 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, 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 £26.90 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 Bolton!
The travel time between Cardiff Central and Bolton by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 47 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 58 mins.
The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Bolton is 3hrs 58 mins.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Bolton can start from as little as £26.90 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.
The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Bolton vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 19 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:54.
First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Bolton typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.
Amenities on trains between Cardiff Central and Bolton can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.
By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Cardiff Central and Bolton. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Bolton, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.
No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Cardiff Central & Bolton. However, there are 19 possible journeys which require a change.
Northern Rail and Transport for Wales are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Bolton.
Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Bolton, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.
| Saturday 3rd May | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Departs | Arrives | Changes | Via Stations | Duration | Operator | |
| 05:49 Cardiff Central | 09:53 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 4 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 06:43 Cardiff Central | 10:52 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs 9 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 07:53 Cardiff Central | 11:52 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 08:54 Cardiff Central | 12:53 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 09:53 Cardiff Central | 13:53 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 4 hrs | Get Tickets | |
| 10:53 Cardiff Central | 14:51 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 58 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 11:53 Cardiff Central | 15:52 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 12:53 Cardiff Central | 16:52 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 13:53 Cardiff Central | 17:52 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 14:53 Cardiff Central | 18:52 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 15:53 Cardiff Central | 19:52 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
| 16:53 Cardiff Central | 20:52 Bolton | 1 change | Manchester Piccadilly | 3 hrs 59 mins | Get Tickets | |
Cardiff Central train station is not just a hub of connectivity but a vibrant part of the city's fabric. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, the station serves as a gateway to a rich tapestry of Welsh culture and beyond, offering excellent transport links to many popular destinations. Whether you're a local commuter, a tourist exploring Wales, or a business traveler, Cardiff Central provides the amenities and services to ensure your journey is comfortable and convenient.
Cardiff Central station is designed with the comfort of travelers in mind. With ticket office hours stretching from early morning until late at night, and the presence of both regular and accessible ticket machines, purchasing and collecting tickets is straightforward. If you've opted to buy your tickets online, you can conveniently collect them from the ticket machines.
The station is fully accessible with step-free access across all platforms, making travel simple for everyone, including those with mobility issues. You'll also find helpful staff available almost 24/7 to assist with any inquiries. With multiple waiting rooms open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, you can relax comfortably while awaiting your train. And if you're looking to pass the time, Cardiff Central boasts shops like WHSmith, and various vending machines for hot and cold refreshments.
This bustling station is well-connected to local and regional transport services. You can access the taxi ranks located on Saunders Road or take advantage of the newly opened Cardiff Bus Interchange at Central Square, which enhances your options for onward journey convenience. For those needing to catch a flight, the T9 Airport Express coach service is just a stone's throw away, offering a direct link to Cardiff Airport in about 40 minutes. Discover the flexibility of limitless travel within Cardiff when you purchase a Cardiff PlusBus ticket alongside your train ticket!
Cardiff Central serves as a perfect launch point for scenic and practical rail journeys. Head to London Paddington for a day in the capital, or perhaps enjoy a coastal trip to Swansea. For those seeking closer adventures, you might consider hopping on a train to Newport or the historic city of Bath Spa.
Cardiff Central train station stands as a pillar of convenience and connectivity in Wales. Whether you're buying a ticket on-site or collecting one pre-purchased online, embarking on a quick local trip or a grand voyage to the bustling cityscape of London, Cardiff Central has got you covered. With its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and countless onward travel possibilities, your journey begins right here. Dive into the efficiency and ease offered by Cardiff Central and let it be the starting point for your next travel adventure.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.