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Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central train times and prices
Plan your journey from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central 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.
Price*
From €32.73
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
4h 6m
Distance
252 miles (406km)
First/last train
00:26 / 22:30
Frequency
52
Train operators
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
Travelling from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central by train? Find fares from as low as €32.73. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest
€32.73
On Sun 15
Live timetable and departures
The journey from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central on the fastest train in 4h 6m, usually 5h 8m. Each day, 52 trains leave from Birmingham New Street, starting at 00:26 and ending at 22:30. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
06:05 Birmingham New Street | 4h 30m, 1 change | 10:35 Glasgow Central | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
06:05 Birmingham New Street | 4h 37m, 1 change | 10:42 Glasgow Central | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
07:07 Birmingham New Street | 4h 11m, Direct | 11:18 Glasgow Central | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
07:51 Birmingham New Street | 5h 24m, 1 change | 13:15 Glasgow Central | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
07:57 Birmingham New Street | 5h 18m, 1 change | 13:15 Glasgow Central | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
View More Trains
Compare train operators from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central
- Avanti West Coast
- TransPennine Express
- CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast will take you from London to Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh and more on its high-speed service connecting England, Wales and Scotland via the West Coast Main Line. Its First Class service is among the best out there, and passengers love the intermediate tier on offer, Standard Premium, for that added comfort.
Standard
Excellent seat comfort, among the best for Standard class
Pendolinos slightly narrower, Evero trains particularly spacious
Optional seat reservations
Air conditioning available, though carriages may run hot
Luggage
Food & Drink
Pet
Onboard facilities
Bike
Seat Facilities
Standard Premium
Ideal for value-focused leisure and business travellers
Extra plush padding and wrap-around headrests
Extra legroom, recline option and guaranteed table (2+1 layout)
Optional seat reservations
Sockets and USB ports at every seat + wireless charging spots
Free onboard WiFi
Air conditioning available
Onboard shop for refreshments (incl. hot food)
Available on Pendolino trains
First Class
Ideal for business travellers and premium leisure passengers
Extra plush padding and wrap-around headrests
Extra legroom, recline option and guaranteed table (2+1 layout)
Optional seat reservations
Air conditioning available
Luggage
Special Services
Lounge Access
Food & Drink
Seat Types
Pet
Onboard facilities
Bike
Seat Facilities
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"If you’re upgrading your seat for a weekend trip and travelling to/from stations without lounges, Standard Premium might be a better option than First Class: weekend services have a more restricted menu compared to weekdays. And as the seats are the same on Standard Premium and First Class, you may prefer to bring some snacks on board and save the few extra pounds."
"I always travel with my refillable water bottle on trains, which makes Avanti West Coast’s Water Refill Points especially handy for longer journeys. You’ll be able to top yours up at these stations, the onboard shop on Pendolino and Evero trains."
Essential onboard policies
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Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
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Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- 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 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- 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 provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- 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
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Departing from Birmingham New Street
Address:
Station Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom
Public Transport Links:
Tram: Grand Central is on Line 1 of the West Midlands Metro, running between Edgbaston Village and Wolverhampton St George’s or Wolverhampton.
Bus: Local routes stop on Smallbrook Queensway and Station Street in front of the Southside entrance. Destinations include Yardley, Birmingham University and Perry Barr.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: The official taxi rank is located on Navigation Street (accessed via the Stephenson Street exit). Dedicated passenger drop-offs (Drop & Go) take place at the Hill Street entrance.
Platforms:
Thirteen platforms - twelve main platforms divided into A and B sections, except platform 4 (divided into 4A, 4B and 4C, a small bay platform for regional services). Platforms are grouped into colour-coded zones (Blue for platforms 1A-5A, Green for platforms 6A-12A and Red for platforms 1B-12B).
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Navigating Birmingham New Street is easiest via section B on platforms 1-12. Using these stairs or lifts leads straight to the Red Lounge and footbridge concourse, which allows direct transfers between all platforms without passing back through the main ticket barriers. The station layout can be confusing, so checking the colour-coded zone signs (Red, Yellow, and Blue) helps you find exits and connections faster."
FAQs about Birmingham New Street Station
Does Birmingham New Street station have a car park?
There is a short-stay car park at the station, but spaces are limited (38 spaces and four Blue Badge spaces).
Is Birmingham New Street step-free?
Yes, Birmingham New Street station has lifts and ramps to provide step-free access to all platforms and trains.
What shops are in Birmingham New Street station?
Birmingham New Street has a range of convenience and food shops, including WHSmith, Costa, Leon and Boots.
Can you leave luggage at Birmingham New Street station?
Yes, passengers can drop off a bag or suitcase at Birmingham New Street’s left luggage office opposite the entrance to platforms 10A and 11A. The office is open 07:00–23:00 from Monday to Saturday and 08:00–23:00 on Sundays.
Where are the toilets in Birmingham New Street station?
Birmingham New Street has toilets in each zone near the lounges past the ticket barriers. In the Blue Zone, the toilets are near platform 1A. The Green Zone loos are by platform 12A, and the toilets in the Red Zone are near platform 12B. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available.
Arriving at Glasgow Central
Address:
Gordon Street, Glasgow, Strathclyde, G1 3SL, Scotland
Onward Transit Options:
Subway: Glasgow Central is a seven-minute walk around the corner from St Enoch subway station. The station is on the eastern end of the loop near the River Clyde.
Bus: Many First buses serve the station, as well as the Glasgow Shuttle 500 bus to/from Glasgow Airport every ten minutes. Buchanan bus station is 11 minutes away.
Coach: Buchanan bus station also serves as an intercity coach hub, providing links to Inverness, Stirling and London.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: A taxi rank is located by the main entrance on Gordon Street.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Gallery of Modern Art (5-min walk)
George Square (7-min walk)
King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut (10-minute walk)
Glasgow Green (16-min walk)
Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (35-min walk or 12-min bus journey)
Airport Transfers:
Direct ScotRail trains between Glasgow Central and Glasgow Prestwick Airport every half hour (taking 44 minutes). Direct TransPennine Express services to/from Manchester Airport around every two hours (3 hours and 35 minutes)
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Allow extra time to navigate the long escalators connecting to lower-level platforms 16 and 17. Built over the historic 19th-century village of Grahamston, Glasgow Central features wartime bunkers and subterranean vaults beneath the main concourse. It is one of the few UK stations offering official guided historical tours, providing access to abandoned platforms and hidden architecture directly below the train shed."
FAQs: Glasgow Central Station
Is there parking at Glasgow Central station?
Yes, the official station car park is on Oswald Street and open 24 hours a day. There are 555 spaces, including four accessible bays.
When does Glasgow Central station open?
Glasgow Central is open from 04:00 on Monday to Saturday and from 07:00 on Sundays.
Does Glasgow Central station have left luggage?
Yes, the left luggage office at Glasgow Central is next to platform 1. Passengers can drop off and pick up their bags 07:00–23:00, Monday to Sunday.
What food places are in Glasgow Central station?
Glasgow Central has cafés like Pret and Costa, grocery shops like M&S and bars including Alston Bar & Beef.
Does Glasgow Central station have showers?
Yes, there are showers by the toilets near the Union Street entrance, and towels are also available to rent. You’ll have to find a member of staff to access the showers.
Avanti West Coast: Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central trains
Take a direct Avanti West Coast train from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central and arrive into Scotland’s vibrant cultural capital in just over four hours.
Journey from the industrial heart of Birmingham to Scotland’s wild beauty, travelling through England’s rolling countryside. Enjoy glimpses of the Lake District and Scotland’s sweeping hills before arriving beneath Glasgow’s grand Victorian skyline.
Running high-speed services along the West Coast Main Line between London Euston and Scotland, Avanti West Coast provides fast, direct connections to key cities, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Departing from Birmingham New Street
Located in the very heart of the city, Birmingham New Street is the Midlands’ busiest rail hub and a key interchange linking Birmingham with destinations all across the UK.
Managed by Network Rail, Birmingham New Street station offers step-free access throughout, along with a wide range of shops, cafés and a first class lounge. Getting to and from the station is quick and easy, with excellent transport links right outside, including bus stops, taxi ranks and the Midland Metro.
With regular services operated by Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, London Northwestern Railway, Transport for Wales and West Midlands Railway, passengers can reach a wide variety of destinations from Birmingham New Street all across the UK, including London, Manchester, Glasgow, Cardiff, Edinburgh and beyond.
Main stops
Make your way from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central aboard a faster Avanti West Coast service through Lancashire with stops at Sandwell & Dudley, Wolverhampton, Stafford, Crewe, Warrington Bank Quay, Wigan North Western, Preston (Lancs), Lancaster, Carlisle, and Motherwell before arriving in Scotland’s largest city. Alternatively, CrossCountry offers a longer, more scenic route through Yorkshire and the northeast, calling at Tamworth, Derby, Chesterfield, Sheffield, Wakefield Westgate, Leeds, York, Darlington, Durham, Newcastle, Alnmouth, Berwick-upon-Tweed, Edinburgh (Waverley), Haymarket and Motherwell before entering into Glasgow Central.
Arriving at Glasgow Central
With its soaring glass roof, Glasgow Central is a landmark station, and the busiest station in all of Scotland, offering regular connections to destinations all across the UK. With bus stops, taxis, and the subway just outside, exploring the city from here couldn’t be easier.
Managed by Network Rail, Glasgow Central is served by ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express and the Caledonian Sleeper, with frequent trains running to Edinburgh, Ayr, Largs and Carlisle, as well as regular services to London Euston, Manchester, Liverpool and Plymouth.
Step off the train at Glasgow Central and you’re instantly in the heart of Scotland’s cultural capital, just moments from the designer boutiques of Buchanan Street, the buzzing bars and restaurants of Merchant City, and the city’s legendary nightlife and music scene. You can also wander up to Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis, admire Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s architectural gems, or explore the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum for a quick dose of history and culture.
Avanti West Coast train classes
- Standard Class: Stay connected onboard your Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central train with free Wi-Fi and plug sockets at selected seats. You can also pre-order food and drinks from the onboard café via Avanti’s Click & Collect service.
- Standard Premium: Upgrade to standard premium and enjoy spacious seats, extra legroom and power sockets at every window seat – ideal for working or unwinding on the go.
- First Class: Travel from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central first class and make the most of wider reclining seats, generous legroom and complimentary at-seat dining, including alcoholic drinks.
Avanti West Coast train travel advice
Make sure you’re prepared for your Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central train with Avanti West Coast thanks to this quick travel guide, featuring everything from luggage and bike storage to family travel, pets and accessibility support.
- Luggage: Passengers can bring up to three items onboard Avanti West Coast services free of charge, including suitcases, rucksacks and smaller bags. Larger items should be stowed in overhead racks, under seats and in dedicated luggage areas to ensure aisles and doorways are kept clear.
- Bicycles: Both standard bikes and e-bikes are welcome onboard Avanti West Coast trains with a free reservation, though space is limited, so booking ahead is recommended. Folding bikes can travel on any service at any time when folded and stored as luggage. E-scooters are not permitted.
- Children: Kids under five travel free of charge, while children aged 5-15 can get 50% off standard fares when travelling with a fare-paying adult. Teenagers can also unlock half-price tickets with a 16-17 Saver railcard.
- Pets: Passengers can bring up to two pets onboard free of charge – just keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier, and make sure all animals stay off seats.
- Passenger Assist: If you need extra support with boarding, handling luggage or navigating stations, you can pre-book Passenger Assist when you buy your ticket, or ask staff at the station for help on the day of travel.
CrossCountry: Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central trains
Board a direct CrossCountry train from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central and arrive in around 6 hours and 20 minutes, ready to dive straight into Glasgow’s vibrant energy and unmistakably Scottish spirit.
Watch the landscape transform from dramatic hills and winding rivers to the rugged moorland of southern Scotland, as you travel aboard your Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central train into Scotland’s largest city.
Spanning the length of Britain from Cornwall to the Scottish Highlands, CrossCountry operates one of the nation’s widest-reaching long-distance rail networks. With Birmingham as its central hub, the network links major destinations such as Bristol, Manchester, Leeds, Newcastle and Edinburgh.
CrossCountry train classes
- Standard Class: Whether you’re on a long-distance Voyager or a regional Turbostar train, travel in comfort with free Wi-Fi and generous legroom with the option of onboard catering, so you can grab a snack or drink on the go.
- First Class: Travel Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central first class for a more relaxing experience with reclining seats, extra legroom and tables – ideal for either working or relaxing. On most services, you can also enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks served directly to your seat.
CrossCountry train travel advice
Whether you’re travelling with luggage, bikes, children or pets, or in need of assistance, here’s everything you need to know before boarding your CrossCountry service from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central.
- Luggage: As space onboard is limited, CrossCountry advises passengers to bring only one medium-sized bag onboard. On Voyager trains, in coaches D and J, there are dedicated luggage racks for storing larger items.
- Bicycles: Standard bikes and e-bikes are welcome on board CrossCountry services with a free reservation, which can be booked in advance. Folding bikes can travel at any time and on any service without pre-booking. E-scooters are not permitted.
- Children: Kids under five travel free of charge, while children aged 5-15 can get 50% off standard fares. Families can save even more with a Family & Friends railcard, offering a third off adult fares and 60% off children’s tickets, while teenagers can secure half-price tickets with a 16-17 Saver railcard
- Pets: Passengers can bring up to two pets on board CrossCountry services at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead or transported in a secure carrier, and are not allowed on seats.
- Passenger Assist: If you need help boarding, handling luggage or finding your way around the station, you can pre-book assistance when you buy your ticket, or request help from staff on the day of travel.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central
Apply for Avanti West Coast Delay Repay
If your Avanti West Coast train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15-29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket, 12.5% of a return ticket and 25% of a Season ticket.
30-59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket or 50% of a season ticket.
60-119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket or 100% of a season ticket.
120 minutes or more: 100% of a single, return or Season ticket (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
Apply for TransPennine Express Delay Repay
If your TPE train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15–29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket or 12.5% of a return ticket.
30–59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket or 50% of the delayed portion of a return ticket.
60–119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket or 100% of the delayed portion of a return ticket.
Over 120 minutes: 100% of a single ticket or return ticket. (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
Apply for CrossCountry Delay Repay
CrossCountry calculates Delay Repay compensation according to how late you arrive at your final destination, regardless of the cause of the delay. It operates under Delay Repay 30, so delays of less than 30 minutes are not eligible.
30 to 59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket, or 50% of the journey cost of a Season Ticket
60 to 119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket, or 100% of the journey cost of a Season Ticket
120 minutes or more: 100% of the total ticket cost, whether single, return or Season Ticket
FAQ
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How much is a train from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central?
Tickets from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central typically cost €141.88, but can be as cheap as €32.73 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
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How long is the train from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central?
The journey should take, on average, 5h 8m, though it can be as quick as 4h 6m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
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Is there a direct train from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central?
Yes, there is a direct train between Birmingham New Street and Glasgow Central. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including where you will have to make a changeover. Check each listing for either ‘direct’ or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central?
You can typically book tickets from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train compan.
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How far is Birmingham New Street from Glasgow Central?
The distance between Birmingham New Street and Glasgow Central is approximately 252 miles (406km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central?
There is 52 train running from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Birmingham New Street to Glasgow Central?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
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How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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Can my 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 and Off-Peak 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.
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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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