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Home > UK Train Journey > Birmingham to Manchester trains

Birmingham to Manchester train times

Travelling from Birmingham to Manchester, the fastest train takes 1h 28m with an average travel time of 1h 29m. 49 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 01:35 and the last at 23:22. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

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Departs	Arrives	Status	Duration	Operator
01:35 Birmingham New Street	06:43 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	5h 8m	Avanti West Coast	Find tickets
06:01 Birmingham New Street	07:29 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	1h 28m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
06:30 Birmingham New Street	07:59 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	1h 29m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
07:01 Birmingham New Street	08:29 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	1h 28m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
07:04 Birmingham New Street	08:45 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	1h 41m	West Midlands Trains	Find tickets

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Birmingham to Manchester Train journey information

Experience seamless journey planning from Birmingham to Manchester. Explore the earliest and latest train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and pricing options to optimise your trip.

First train	01:35
Last train	23:22
Departure station	Birmingham
Arrival station	Manchester
Distance	70 miles (113 km)
Journey time	From 1h 28m
Price	From £4.15
Train operators	Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Northern

CrossCountry: Birmingham to Manchester trains

It only takes around 1 hour and a half to get from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly with CrossCountry, and with 20 CrossCountry trains running daily, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

You can sit back and relax as your train takes you through legendary Midlands and northern hangouts and rolling countryside. CrossCountry provides services that link towns and cities throughout England, Scotland, and Wales, connecting major UK cities such as Birmingham, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Cardiff with a fast and convenient train service.

Luckily, it’s easy to get to Manchester from Birmingham. Buy cheap train tickets with TrainPal, and don’t forget to add your Railcard for an even bigger discount.

Departing from Birmingham New Street

Birmingham New Street is the busiest of Birmingham’s three train stations and is a central UK railway hub. It first opened all the way back in 1854!

Although Birmingham New Street is managed by Network Rail, it is a central hub for CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast services, as well as regional services in the Midlands.

Main stops

The main stops along this journey include Wolverhampton, Stafford, Stoke-on-Trent, Macclesfield, and Stockport. Although stops may vary depending on the time of the service.

Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly

The Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly train drops you off in the largest and most well-connected train station in Manchester. It is in the city's southeast and is a highly accessible railway station, with buses, taxis, and Metrolink trams nearby. Manchester Victoria train station is only a 25-minute walk if you are making an onward connection by rail.

Manchester Piccadilly services other major UK destinations, including Liverpool, York, Edinburgh, Sheffield, Newcastle, Leeds, and Bradford. Many train operators serve this station, including Northern Rail, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, and Transport for Wales.

There’s lots to do around Manchester Piccadilly. It’s just a five-minute walk from the station into the city centre, with shopping, restaurants, and cafes nearby. You could visit the neighbouring Manchester Art Gallery, the city’s famous creative district and premier hangout spot - the Northern Quarter or enjoy shopping at the Arndale Centre just minutes from Manchester Piccadilly.

CrossCountry train classes

Standard Class: Travelling in Standard gives you access to onboard Wi-Fi, charging stations, and tables alongside snacks and drinks from the onboard shop.
First Class: Travelling from Birmingham to Manchester First Class gives you access to larger, more spacious seating as well as free complimentary refreshments.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Luggage: Up to three items of luggage: one small item, one medium-sized bag, and one large suitcase.
Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small pets can travel for free. Each passenger can bring a maximum of two pets.
Bicycles: Book a space before travelling.
Children: Children receive cheaper tickets. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
Passenger Assist: Provide assistance at stations and on trains, or during transfers, help with luggage, offer discounts for disabled passengers, and other services.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Birmingham to Manchester train travel guide

Travelling by train from Birmingham to Manchester is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Birmingham, you can reach Manchester in just 1h 28m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

1. How can I save money on Birmingham to Manchester train tickets?

To find discounted train tickets, use Railcards, book in advance, and travel off-peak. Group travel with friends or family can also save money. Frequent travellers should consider Season Tickets. TrainPal offers cheaper options through split tickets and discount codes. Learn more about buying cheap train tickets in the UK.

2. How do I find the best train route from Birmingham to Manchester?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Birmingham to Manchester train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

3. 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.

4. Are there direct trains from Birmingham to Manchester?

Yes, there are direct trains from Birmingham to Manchester. You can check to find the live train timetable, stops, and more details. No transfers are needed, allowing you to reach your destination smoothly and effortlessly.

5. What are the main train operating companies from Birmingham to Manchester?

Travelling from Birmingham to Manchester, the primary train operator is Avanti West Coast. We also allow you to compare live schedules and services from other train companies. We aim to help you book cheap train tickets and ensure a cost-effective and relaxed journey.

6. How far in advance can I book UK train tickets?

Book cheap train tickets on the TrainPal 12 weeks in advance for the best discounts. Save more with Split Tickets or a Railcard, and explore more destinations across the UK for less!

Check timetables and during the journey

1. Are Birmingham to Manchester trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Birmingham to Manchester trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.

2. How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.

3. Do Birmingham to Manchester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Birmingham to Manchester are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company

4. How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.

Other things you might be interested

1. Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

2. Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

3. How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Without

Buy Senior Railcard

† Railcards offer discounted train tickets, with various types based on age and number of travellers. Enjoy up to 1/3 off for a cheaper journey. The actual price will vary based on factors such as the train service, time, and ticket availability.

Compensation and refunds

With Trainpal, managing your travel is simple. We assist with itinerary changes, ticket refunds, and Delay Repay.

Modify your plans or request a refund: Check out our Ticket Refunds and Changes page.
See if there are any train delays or interruptions: Visit our train Delays and Disruptions page or UK Rail Strike page.

We're here to help - reach out if you need us!

How to buy cheap Birmingham to Manchester train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Split tickets

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Book in advance

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Off-Peak train tickets

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Use a Railcard

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Save with Season Tickets

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

Travel in groups

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.

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* 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.

** Save an average of 73% by combining Advance Ticket savings of 73% with an additional 30% through split tickets. These savings apply to Advance fares booked at least one week before travel, excluding Anytime fares purchased on the day of travel. Availability may vary by route and may not be combined with other offers.

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Birmingham to Manchester Trains From £4.15*

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