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CrossCountry
TransPennine Express

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Chelmsford to Bolton by train

First train

04:41

Last train

15:55

Departure station

Chelmsford

Arrival station

Bolton

Journey time

From 5h 12m

Distance

176 miles (283 km)

Frequency

6 trains per day

Changes

3 changes

Train operators

CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, Thameslink

Travel from Chelmsford to Bolton by train in 5 hours 12 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 5 hours 57 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 5 hours 12 minutes. You'll usually find 6 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 Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway or Thameslink 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.

FAQs about the train journey from Chelmsford to Bolton

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.

How do you get to Bolton from Chelmsford?

To travel to Bolton from Chelmsford, you can take the train - on average, the journey takes around 5 hours and 57 minutes, though the fastest trains can take 5 hours and 12 minutes. Use our Journey Planner to get more information.

How long is the train ride from Chelmsford to Bolton?

Trains from Chelmsford to Bolton take an average of 5 hours and 57 minutes, although on the fastest services it can take just 5 hours and 12 minutes. You'll usually find 6 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 Chelmsford and Bolton by train?

The quickest journey time between Chelmsford and Bolton by train is 5 hours and 12 minutes.

Are there direct trains from Chelmsford to Bolton?

No, there are no direct trains running from Chelmsford to Bolton, you’ll usually need to make at least 3 changes during the journey.

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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