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Chelmsford to Bolton by train

First train

05:56

Last train

00:27

Departure station

Chelmsford

Arrival station

Bolton

Journey time

From 6h 30m

Distance

176 miles (283 km)

Changes

3 changes

Train operators

CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, Thameslink, London North Eastern Railway

Travel from Chelmsford to Bolton by train in 6 hours 30 minutes

If you want to know more about the journey from Chelmsford to Bolton by train, look no further!

The average journey time from Chelmsford to Bolton by train is 7 hours 16 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 6 hours 30 minutes. You'll usually find 0 trains per day travelling the 176 miles (283 km) between these two destinations. You'll need to make 3 changes along the way to Bolton. You'll be travelling with London North Eastern Railway, Greater Anglia or East Midlands Railway on your way to Bolton, as these are the main rail operators on this route.

Plan your trip ahead and book your train tickets in advance if you want to snap up the cheapest fares. Travelling Off-Peak or using a Railcard are also great ways to save. Just start a search in our Journey Planner to view the latest prices for trains from Chelmsford to Bolton.

Keep reading for more information about the train journey to Bolton, including FAQs, and tips on booking cheap train tickets. Check the timetable above for live train times or if you're ready to book, just start a search for tickets with us today.

Journey details

Want to know more about your journey from Chelmsford to Bolton? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Chelmsford to Bolton is 6 hours and 30 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Chelmsford to Bolton?

No, there are no direct train services from Chelmsford to Bolton. Travelling from Chelmsford to Bolton by train will require a minimum of 3 changes.

What time does the first train from Chelmsford to Bolton leave?

The first train from Chelmsford to Bolton leaves at 05:56. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Chelmsford to Bolton leave?

The last train from Chelmsford to Bolton leaves at 00:27. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.

What's the distance between Chelmsford and Bolton by train?

Trains travelling from Chelmsford to Bolton cover a distance of around 176 miles (283 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Bolton to Chelmsford.

Cheap train tickets from Chelmsford to Bolton

Book in advance

Look out for Advance tickets – they usually come out up to 12 weeks before the departure date and can be cheaper than buying on the day. If you’re here a tad early, sign up for our Advance ticket alert today to get notified when your tickets are released.

Consider a Season Ticket

If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for Chelmsford to Bolton is right for you.

Use your Railcard

National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.

Split your tickets

Download our app to find split tickets — courtesy of SplitSave, our handy feature which 'splits' your train tickets where possible to find you a better deal. Learn more about the clever tech behind split tickets, and how to spot SplitSave discounts in our app.

For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.

† Average savings on advance fares booked at least one week before day of travel vs Anytime fares purchased on day of travel. Subject to availability. Excludes coach.

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