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Trains from Bolton to Exeter Central

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Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry

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  1. Home
  2. Train times
  3. Bolton to Exeter Central

Trains to Exeter Central from Bolton

First train

05:54

Last train

00:23

Departure stationBolton
Arrival stationExeter Central
Journey time

From 4h 59m

Distance

202 miles (326 km)

Frequency

17 trains per day

Changes

2 changes

Train operators

Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, South Western Railway, TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales

What are the train times from Bolton to Exeter Central?

Check out the next trains departing from Bolton to Exeter Central for Tuesday 13th October 2026 using our handy timetable below, including platform and live travel information. You can view the full day timetable or search for a different date here.
DepartsArrivesDuration
10:5415:534h 59m, 3 changes
11:3617:075h 31m, 3 changes
12:5418:055h 11m, 3 changes
13:2118:215h 0m, 2 changes
13:5418:565h 2m, 3 changes
14:5420:015h 7m, 3 changes
15:5421:235h 29m, 3 changes
16:5421:555h 1m, 3 changes
17:5423:095h 15m, 3 changes
19:5405:239h 29m, 3 changes

Travelling from Bolton to Exeter Central by train

If you're planning to travel from Bolton to Exeter Central, we're here to help!

On average, the train journey from Bolton to Exeter Central takes around 7 hours 13 minutes. There are normally 17 trains per day travelling from Bolton to Exeter Central.

You'll have to make 2 changes on your journey to Exeter Central, as there are no direct trains.

Avanti West Coast, Great Western Railway, Transport for Wales and South Western Railway trains operate on this route.

Save money on your train tickets by booking in advance.

Use our Journey Planner to compare ticket prices and find the cheapest fares.

What do people frequently ask about the train journey from Bolton to Exeter Central?

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

How do you get to Exeter Central from Bolton?

To travel to Exeter Central from Bolton, you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 7 hours and 13 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 4 hours and 59 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Bolton to Exeter Central?

Trains from Bolton to Exeter Central take an average of 7 hours and 13 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 4 hours and 59 minutes. You'll usually find 17 trains per day on this route, so use our Journey Planner to check specific dates as times may vary.

What is the quickest journey time between Bolton and Exeter Central by train?

The quickest journey time between Bolton and Exeter Central by train is 4 hours and 59 minutes.

Are there direct trains from Bolton to Exeter Central?

No, there are no direct trains running from Bolton to Exeter Central, you’ll usually need to make at least 2 changes during the journey.

How do I find cheap train tickets from Bolton to Exeter Central?

As most UK train companies increase their prices as the departure date approaches, our Trainline team of experts have put together these tips to help you find the cheapest tickets.

1. Sign up to Ticket Alert

If you're planning a trip more than 12 weeks ahead, sign up to our Ticket Alert to get notified when Advance tickets are released for your travel date.

2. Use a Railcard

National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel throughout the year. Buy one with us and you'll be able to store it digitally in our app, so you'll always have it on your travels.

3. Book split tickets

Our handy feature SplitSave will 'split' your train journey into multiple tickets, which can be much cheaper than buying a single ticket. Find out more about split tickets.

4. Travel Off-Peak

If you can be flexible with your travel times, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets are usually cheaper in the UK. Generally, Off-Peak times are any time at weekends and outside of Monday to Friday morning and evening rush hours.

5. Consider a Season Ticket

Best for commuters, if you catch a train on the same route more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly, weekly and flexi options available, find out if a Season Ticket for Bolton to Exeter Central is right for you.

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

§Advance adult single fare. Excludes booking fee. Prices seen by Trainline customers in the last 30 days. Availability limited.
† 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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