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Cardiff to Birmingham train ticket prices
€5.22
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. 43 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:30 and the last at 21:45. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
07:45 Cardiff Central | 2h, Direct | 09:45 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
07:49 Cardiff Central | 2h 5m, 1 change | 09:54 Birmingham New Street | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
08:18 Cardiff Central | 2h 6m, 1 change | 10:24 Birmingham New Street | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
08:45 Cardiff Central | 2h, Direct | 10:45 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
09:19 Cardiff Central | 2h, 1 change | 11:19 Birmingham New Street | Great Western Railway | 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
Taking the train from Cardiff to Birmingham is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Cardiff, you can arrive at Birmingham in just 1h 55m, 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 Cardiff to Birmingham?
The average ticket fare from Cardiff to Birmingham is about €5.22, 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. 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 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?
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 Cardiff to Birmingham trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Cardiff to Birmingham trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
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?
While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the 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?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
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
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
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
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee 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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