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Trains from Cardiff Queen Street to
Bolton

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Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton by train

A train trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton takes about 4hrs 31 mins on average, covering roughly 148 miles (238 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 £26.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton Key Stats

Arrival Station

Bolton

Departure Station

Cardiff Queen Street

Frequency

16trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 17 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:33 / 23:53

Distance

148miles
(238 km)

2 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£26.90

Travelling from Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton by Train

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

Planning to travel from Cardiff Queen Street 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 31 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 4hrs 17 mins. With roughly 16 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 148-mile (238 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, 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!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Queen Street and Bolton

Curious about your trip from Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton? 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 Cardiff Queen Street and Bolton by train?

The travel time between Cardiff Queen Street and Bolton by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 31 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 17 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Cardiff Queen Street and Bolton by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton is 4hrs 17 mins.

How much does the train from Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton cost?

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Queen Street 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.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Bolton?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Bolton 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 06:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:53.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Bolton?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Bolton?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Cardiff Queen Street 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.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton?

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

What train companies run services from Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton?

Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast and Northern Rail are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Queen Street and Bolton.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Queen Street and Bolton?

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

When are Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton on Tuesday 6th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 6th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
23:50 Cardiff Queen Street08:52 Bolton2 changesCardiff Central
Manchester Piccadilly
9 hrs 2 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton 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 Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton start from as little as £26.90

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.

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 Cardiff Queen Street to Bolton are available for £101.20 one way

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 Cardiff Queen Street Station

Exploring Cardiff Queen Street Train Station

Welcome to Cardiff Queen Street train station, a key hub in the heart of Wales' lively capital city. Whether you're a local commuter hopping between city stops or a visitor setting off to explore South Wales, Cardiff Queen Street offers all the essentials you might need for a smooth journey. Here, modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the traditional architecture of Cardiff’s bustling center.

Facilities and Amenities

Cardiff Queen Street station is equipped with everything you need for a comfortable and accessible travel experience. The ticket office operates from as early as 6 am on weekdays and has plenty of ticket machines available throughout the station. You can collect tickets bought online from these machines and they're easily accessible near the main entrance. The station offers step-free access across all platforms via lifts, making it highly accessible. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are conveniently located on Platform 4 for those traveling with little ones.

For those who might need extra assistance, staff is available to help from 05:15 to midnight on most days. Despite the lack of eateries or shops, the station offers public Wi-Fi so you can stay connected on the go. If cycling is your preferred mode to and from the station, you'll find ample cycle storage with CCTV coverage for peace of mind. Remember, the bustling streets of Cardiff offer numerous nearby cafes and shops to grab a bite or essentials before you catch your train.

Transport Connections

Getting to and from Cardiff Queen Street is a breeze with several options available. There are local bus services with limited offerings right outside the station on weekdays. During rail disruptions, replacement bus services are set up at bus stops nearby, ensuring you aren't left stranded. However, taxis aren't as readily accessible since there are no designated accessible taxi points or spaces.

Popular Destinations

From Cardiff Queen Street, you're well-positioned to explore various places quickly and conveniently. Head down to Cardiff Bay for stunning waterfront views or make your way to Cardiff Central, the city's flagship station. For a taste of local culture, a short ride to Pontypridd might be just what you're looking for.

Planning a longer journey? Don't miss the chance to visit Newport in South Wales or explore the charm of Caerphilly. With reliable connections, your journey starts here.

Closing Remarks

Cardiff Queen Street is more than just a connecting point—it's an invitation to explore the rich cultural tapestry and stunning landscapes Wales has to offer. Whether you're commuting for work or touring the sights, this station is your gateway to endless adventures. Travel happy and let Cardiff Queen Street set your journey in motion.

Ready to plan your trip? Dive into what's next and make the most of your travel experience from Cardiff Queen Street! Safe travels!

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.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Queen Street