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Cardiff to Birmingham train ticket prices
£6.20
On Thu 01 Jan
Cardiff to Birmingham train timetable
Travelling from Cardiff to Birmingham, the fastest train takes 1h 55m with an average travel time of 2h 3m. 42 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:54 and the last at 21:45. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
17:45 Cardiff Central | 2h, Direct | 19:45 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
18:20 Cardiff Central | 1h 58m, 1 change | 20:18 Birmingham New Street | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
18:29 Cardiff Central | 2h 20m, 1 change | 20:49 Birmingham New Street | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
19:20 Cardiff Central | 1h 58m, 1 change | 21:18 Birmingham New Street | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
19:45 Cardiff Central | 2h, Direct | 21:45 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Cardiff to Birmingham train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Cardiff to Birmingham 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.
Cardiff to Birmingham train travel guide
The train journey from Cardiff to Birmingham combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Cardiff, you can get to Birmingham in just 1h 55m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Cardiff to Birmingham?
The average ticket fare from Cardiff to Birmingham is about £6.20, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
What is the best way to travel from Cardiff to Birmingham by train?
What is the fastest train from Cardiff to Birmingham?
The fastest train journey time from Cardiff to Birmingham is 1h 55m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from Cardiff to Birmingham?
No, there are no direct trains from Cardiff to Birmingham. 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 Cardiff to Birmingham?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey
Are Cardiff to Birmingham trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Cardiff to Birmingham 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 Cardiff to Birmingham 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?
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.
Do Cardiff to Birmingham trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Cardiff to Birmingham 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?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Cardiff to Birmingham route?
The Cardiff to Birmingham route is operated by CrossCountry. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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Bicycle
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
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Children
Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
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Pets
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed 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 Cardiff to Birmingham train tickets

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

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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.





















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