Bolton to Manchester Piccadilly Trains From €2.40*

Take a short and easy trip from Bolton to Manchester Piccadilly with Northern trains. All services take less than half an hour, with the quickest arriving in the capital of the North in just around 21 minutes. Pass through towns, fields and city architecture as you relax in your seat. Trains run three times an hour. 

Northern is a key rail operator connecting cities and towns across the North of England. Its extensive network covers major destinations such as Hull, Rotherham, Sunderland, Leeds, Liverpool, Sheffield, and Newcastle, providing vital links for both commuters and leisure travellers. Whether you’re heading to a bustling city centre or exploring smaller communities, Northern’s rail services offer reliable and accessible travel throughout the region.

Departing from Bolton

Situated on Trinity Street by the Bolton Interchange Clock Tower, Bolton station forms part of the transport interchange alongside Bolton bus station. Walking from the town centre takes ten minutes. Taxi drop-off is via Newport Street, and buses stop by the interchange or in the bus station (three-minute walk).

All trains to and from Bolton are operated by Northern and TransPennine Express. Lancaster, Southport, Blackburn and Manchester Airport are just a few of the locations available.

Main stops

Salford Crescent, Deansgate and Manchester Oxford Road are the main stops on the route from Bolton to Manchester Piccadilly. Stops on this route can vary according to the operator and time.

Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly

The Bolton to Manchester train alights at Manchester Piccadilly, just around 15 minutes away from the city centre. Manchester has two free city bus routes that serve the station. Metrolink trams, with routes around the city and towards the suburbs and Manchester Airport, stop underground.

Manchester Piccadilly is one of the UK’s busiest stations, and there are many train routes available. Services run to and from stations like Stockport, Reading, Liverpool Lime Street and Preston. Northern, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway (EMR), and TransPennine Express are the main operators.

For a fun day out in Manchester, stroll around the Northern Quarter for unique independent shops and restaurants. Stunning architecture can be found around the city, from Manchester Cathedral to The John Rylands Library. The Mackie Mayor food hall is a great spot for drinks and indulgent dishes from around the world.

Northern train classes

• Standard Class: Northern trains only offer Standard Class accommodation. Standard Class carriages are fitted with comfy seating as well as spaces for your luggage (including overhead racks). Newly refurbished trains provide free WiFi access. You can book up to 12 weeks in advance to buy cheap train tickets.

Northern train travel advice

• Luggage: Northern allows a reasonable amount of luggage on board. It must be stowed in the dedicated luggage spaces, overhead racks or underneath your seat.
• Bicycles: Spaces for bikes are provided on a first-come, first-served basis. E-scooters are banned.
• Children: Under-5s travel free with an adult. 5–15-year-olds and 16–17 Saver Railcard holders get most fares half price. Additional savings are available with the Family and Friends Railcard.
• Pets: Passengers can bring up to two pets in a carrier or on a lead. They must stay off the seats.
• Passenger Assist: Northern staff can help you book help, from navigating stations to managing luggage, or answer any queries.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.