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Trains from Bolton to
Ipswich

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Bolton to Ipswich by train

A train trip from Bolton to Ipswich takes about 5hrs 16 mins on average, covering roughly 182 miles (294 kilometres). With around 31 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £23.20, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bolton to Ipswich Key Stats

Arrival Station

Ipswich

Departure Station

Bolton

Frequency

31trains
per day

Journey Time

from4hrs 37 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:54 / 00:24

Distance

182miles
(294 km)

3 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£23.20

Travelling from Bolton to Ipswich by Train

Hop on a Train from Bolton to Ipswich – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Bolton to Ipswich by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 5hrs 16 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Ipswich), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 4hrs 37 mins. With roughly 31 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 182-mile (294 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Northern Rail, Abellio Greater Anglia, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway, First TransPennine Express, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £23.20 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Ipswich!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bolton and Ipswich

Curious about your trip from Bolton to Ipswich? 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 Bolton and Ipswich by train?

The travel time between Bolton and Ipswich by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 5hrs 16 mins & the fastest journey takes 4hrs 37 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Bolton to Ipswich is 4hrs 37 mins.

How much does the train from Bolton to Ipswich cost?

Train ticket prices from Bolton to Ipswich can start from as little as £23.20 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 Bolton and Ipswich?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bolton and Ipswich vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 31 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:54, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:24.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Bolton and Ipswich?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Bolton and Ipswich?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Bolton to Ipswich by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Bolton and Ipswich. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Ipswich, 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 Bolton to Ipswich?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Bolton & Ipswich. However, there are 31 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Bolton to Ipswich?

Northern Rail, Abellio Greater Anglia, Avanti West Coast, London North Eastern Railway and First TransPennine Express are the main train operating companies running services between Bolton and Ipswich.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Bolton and Ipswich?

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

When are Bolton to Ipswich Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bolton to Ipswich on Thursday 24th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 24th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
11:21 Bolton16:05 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
11:54 Bolton16:36 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
12:21 Bolton17:05 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
12:54 Bolton17:35 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
13:21 Bolton17:58 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
13:54 Bolton18:38 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
14:21 Bolton19:08 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
14:54 Bolton19:38 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
15:21 Bolton20:05 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
15:54 Bolton20:36 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
16:21 Bolton21:08 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
16:54 Bolton21:36 Ipswich3 changesManchester Piccadilly
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
4 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bolton to Ipswich 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 Bolton to Ipswich start from as little as £23.20

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 Bolton to Ipswich start from £110.70 one way, or £120.90 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 Bolton to Ipswich are available for £107.30 one way, or £154.80 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Bolton to Ipswich is £40.90 & the average saving on this route is £40.90!

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 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.

Everything you need to know about Ipswich Station

Exploring Ipswich Train Station

Ipswich Station is a vital rail hub in the UK, connecting the charming historic town of Ipswich with the bustling world beyond. Whether you're travelling for business or leisure, Ipswich Station offers a convenient, accessible and efficient service to thousands of city commuters, students, and holidaymakers alike. With trains running frequently to major destinations, including the heart of London, this station is your gateway to discovering the enchanting landscapes of East Anglia, or to the vibrant urban treasures of the capital. Let's take a closer look at the amenities and services on offer at Ipswich Station, ensuring your journey starts and ends with ease and comfort.

Facilities and Amenities at Ipswich Station

Ipswich Station is well-equipped with facilities to serve both regular and occasional travellers. Ticketing is a breeze here, as the station boasts a ticket office with extensive opening hours, and numerous ticket machines where you can collect tickets purchased online. For those using smartcards, Ipswich offers on-site issuance and validators.

Accessibility is another strong point, with step-free access provided throughout via lifts. There are accessible ticket machines, induction loops, and accessible toilets for ease of movement and convenience. Additional services include waiting rooms, a first-class lounge, and a variety of seating areas.

Safety and assistance are well-catered for with CCTV monitoring for enhanced security. The station also provides a helpline service that allows planning assistance up to two hours before your journey. While Ipswich Station offers assistance in most areas, there is no luggage storage available.

Onward Travel Options from Ipswich Station

Beyond the train tracks, Ipswich Station serves as a well-connected travel hub with multiple onward travel options. For bus travellers, Ipswich Buses and First offer a network of routes that link travellers to nearby towns, villages, and key landmarks around Ipswich. Convenient services like routes 16 and 66 connect the station forecourt with the town centre.

If you're planning a day of exploration, an Ipswich PLUSBUS ticket is a fantastic choice for unlimited bus travel around town at a discounted rate when purchased with your train ticket. For more on local bus routes and PLUSBUS details, visit the PLUSBUS website.

Popular Destinations from Ipswich Station

Whether for work or play, Ipswich Station opens up a world of travel opportunities. Frequent trains are available to bustling urban locales like London Liverpool Street and the culturally rich city of Norwich. If staying closer to home, the picturesque towns of Felixstowe or Woodbridge offer more tranquil escapes.

Academia and innovation are just a short ride away with connections to Cambridge, while history fans might opt for Bury St Edmunds with its stunning abbey grounds. The versatility of train options from Ipswich ensures an adventure is always within reach.

Plan Your Journey

In summary, Ipswich Station is a modern, traveller-friendly station, offering a smooth start to your journey with excellent facilities and connections both locally and nationally. Next time you’re planning your journey, whether it’s for business or leisure, consider Ipswich as your launching point. Busy commuters and adventurous explorers alike find it a most accommodating station with its wide range of amenities and comprehensive transport links.

Safe travels and enjoy the ride!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Bolton