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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Bolton

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London Waterloo East to Bolton by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Bolton? The trip usually takes about 9hrs 17 mins, covering approximately 173 miles (278 kilometres). With roughly 2 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £34.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Bolton Key Stats

Arrival Station

Bolton

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

2trains
per day

Journey Time

from9hrs 13 mins

Changes

5-5no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

23:40 / 00:03

Distance

173miles
(278 km)

2 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£34.00

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Bolton by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Bolton – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Bolton? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 9hrs 17 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 9hrs 13 mins. With approximately 2 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 173-mile (278 km) route usually requires just one change, with Southeastern, Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £34.00, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Bolton!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Bolton

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East 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 London Waterloo East and Bolton by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Bolton by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 9hrs 17 mins & the fastest journey takes 9hrs 13 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Bolton by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Bolton is 9hrs 13 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Bolton cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Bolton can start from as little as £34.00 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 London Waterloo East and Bolton?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Bolton vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 2 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 23:40, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:03.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Bolton?

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

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Bolton?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Bolton by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between London Waterloo East 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 London Waterloo East to Bolton?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Bolton. However, there are 2 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Bolton?

Southeastern, Northern Rail and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Bolton.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Bolton?

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

When are London Waterloo East to Bolton Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Bolton on Saturday 3rd May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Saturday 3rd May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
19:18 London Waterloo East00:24 Bolton5 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Euston
Manchester Piccadilly
5 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East 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 London Waterloo East to Bolton start from as little as £34.00

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 London Waterloo East to Bolton 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 London Waterloo East to Bolton are available for £196.00 one way, or £392.00 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 London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

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 London Waterloo East