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Birmingham to Manchester train ticket prices
£9.50
On Mon 30 Mar
Birmingham to Manchester train timetable
From Birmingham to Manchester, take the fastest train in 1h 28m, typically 1h 29m. Daily, 48 trains depart from Birmingham, with the first at 01:45 and the last at 22:30. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
01:45 Birmingham New Street | 5h 22m, 2 change | 07:07 Manchester Oxford Road | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
01:45 Birmingham New Street | 5h 28m, 2 change | 07:13 Manchester Piccadilly | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
06:01 Birmingham New Street | 1h 28m, Direct | 07:29 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
06:30 Birmingham New Street | 1h 29m, Direct | 07:59 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
07:01 Birmingham New Street | 1h 29m, Direct | 08:30 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Birmingham to Manchester train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Birmingham to Manchester with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
CrossCountry trains from Birmingham to Manchester
First Class vs Standard — What to choose?
- Standard Class includes free Wi-Fi and power sockets. Carriages can get busy, particularly on Friday afternoons and during major events in either city.
What is the luggage allowance?
How often does the Birmingham to Manchester train run?
Birmingham New Street: Getting to the Platform
Birmingham New Street has 12 platforms, all located below the main concourse and accessible via escalators, lifts and stairs. The station is divided into three colour-coded lounges:
Blue Lounge: Platforms 1–5
Green Lounge: Platforms 6–12
Red Lounge: Access to any platform via the 'b' end — useful if you are unsure which lounge to use
Platforms are further divided into lettered sections (e.g. platform 5a and 5b). Check the central departure board on the ground floor to find your lounge and platform. If your ticket shows only a number, your train uses the full platform length.
Onboard trains from Birmingham to Manchester
CrossCountry offers high-quality trains with Wi-Fi, tables, and outlets for working during your commute. Food and drink are provided either by an at-seat trolley service or at an onboard shop, depending on the service.
The scenic side
Key landmarks
Keep an eye out for the skyline of Stoke-on-Trent as you pass through the Midlands, and the viaducts and Victorian architecture around Stockport as you approach Manchester, including Stockport Viaduct, one of the largest brick structures in the world.
Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly
The correct exit
- Station Main Exit: The primary way out leads directly to Piccadilly Plaza — a busy area with shops, restaurants and office buildings — and onwards to the city centre and Piccadilly Gardens. This is also the most convenient exit for the bus stops.
- Fairfield Street Exit (Southwest): Head this way for the taxi rank. Also the most practical exit if you are being picked up by car.
- London Road Exit (Southeast): The best exit if you are heading towards Manchester University or the Northern Quarter.
Onward Travel
- Metrolink (Tram): The tram runs directly beneath the station via an internal escalator, connecting to destinations across Greater Manchester including Altrincham, Bury, Eccles and MediaCityUK.
- Free City Centre Buses: Routes 1 and 2 run circular routes from the station entrance around the city centre, departing every 10–12 minutes.
Birmingham to Manchester train travel guide
Taking the train from Birmingham to Manchester is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Birmingham, you can arrive at Manchester in just 1h 28m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Birmingham to Manchester?
Ticket prices from Birmingham to Manchester average around £9.50, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
What is the best way to travel from Birmingham to Manchester by train?
What is the fastest train from Birmingham to Manchester?
The fastest train journey time from Birmingham to Manchester is 1h 28m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
Are there direct trains from Birmingham to Manchester?
No, there are no direct trains from Birmingham to Manchester. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
Is it worth taking a train from Birmingham to Manchester?
Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Birmingham to Manchester trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Birmingham to Manchester trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Birmingham to Manchester is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.
Do Birmingham to Manchester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Birmingham to Manchester route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.
Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone
Which train companies operate the Birmingham to Manchester route?
The route from Birmingham to Manchester is operated by Avanti West Coast. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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Bicycle
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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Children
Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
How to buy cheap Birmingham to Manchester train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
More train routes
* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
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