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Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly train times and prices
* 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
£18.00
On Fri 23
Live timetable and departures
From Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly, take the fastest train in 1h 28m, typically 1h 40m. Daily, 79 trains depart from Birmingham New Street, with the first at 00:02 and the last at 23:22. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
22:01 Birmingham New Street | 1h 30m, Direct | 23:31 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
22:30 Birmingham New Street | 1h 43m, Direct | 00:13 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
23:22 Birmingham New Street | 2h 5m, 1 change | 01:27 Manchester Piccadilly | LNR & WMR | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly
- CrossCountry
- LNR & WMR
- Avanti West Coast
First Class
Standard
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 Manchester Piccadilly
Address:
Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom
Onward Transit Options:
Tram: Piccadilly tram station is on the Blue and Yellow lines of the Metrolink network, serving Manchester Airport, Bury, Altrincham and other areas.
Bus: First and Stagecoach operate many routes across the city and Greater Manchester, including Fallowfield, West Didsbury and Cheetham Hill. Both of the city’s free bus routes also stop at the station.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: You can catch a cab or have the driver drop you off at the station’s taxi rank on Fairfield Street.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Piccadilly Gardens (9-min walk)
Manchester Art Gallery (14-min walk)
The John Rylands Library (20-minute walk)
Manchester Cathedral (22-min walk)
AO Arena (22-min walk)
Airport Transfers:
About seven direct services run to Manchester Airport every hour (taking 13–21 minutes). Trains are operated by Northern, TransPennine Express and Transport for Wales (TfW).
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Use the lift to the left of the waiting area or on Fairfield Street to avoid the concourse crowds and long stair routes. It is ideal for getting around the station with luggage and moving between rail platforms, the tram stop and taxi rank."
FAQs: Manchester Piccadilly Station
Is there parking at Manchester Piccadilly station?
Yes, the station has a 24-hour long-stay car park on Boad Street with 856 spaces and 32 accessible bays. For short stays and drop-offs, use the car park on Fairfield Street (open 24 hours). There are 47 spaces and three accessible parking bays.
What time does Manchester Piccadilly train station open?
Manchester Piccadilly generally opens about 20 minutes before the first train, around 02:40.
Are there lockers at Manchester Piccadilly station?
There aren’t any self-service lockers at Manchester Piccadilly, but the station does have a left luggage office. The office is located between platforms 10 and 11. Drop off and pick up your belongings from 07:00–23:00, Monday to Saturday and 08:00–23:00 on Sunday.
What food places are in Manchester Piccadilly station?
Manchester Piccadilly station has a range of coffee kiosks, fast food outlets and grocery shops. Options include Tortilla, M&S and Caffè Nero.
Does Manchester Piccadilly station have toilets?
Yes, there are toilets opposite platforms 11 and 12 at Manchester Piccadilly. Additional facilities are on the upper concourse and near the waiting lounge by platforms 13 and 14. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available.
CrossCountry vs Transport for Wales: which one to choose?
The table below compares CrossCountry and Transport for Wales, the two main operators on this route, helping you quickly decide which service best fits your travel style.
Train operator | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Featured services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CrossCountry | 1h 30m | Birmingham New Street | Frequency & speed | Free Wi-Fi, power sockets and at-seat trolley catering |
Transport for Wales (TfW) | 1h 33m | Birmingham New Street | Comfort & long-distance amenities | Free Wi-Fi, power points |
- Frequency: CrossCountry is the clear “turn up and go” option, running twice hourly, making it ideal for flexible travel plans.
- Comfort: TfW services use longer-distance trains with slightly more generous seating layouts, particularly on Cardiff–Manchester routes.
- Onboard feel: CrossCountry’s Voyager trains prioritise speed but can feel tighter during busy periods, whereas TfW can feel more spacious.
Train travel from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly
This is one of the UK’s most reliable intercity links, connecting the Midlands with the North West in around 90 minutes.
Departure from Birmingham New Street
Specific transport links
- West Midlands Metro: The tram line stops at Grand Central (Stephenson Street entrance), offering a direct link from Wolverhampton and the Jewellery Quarter into the station complex.
- Local bus network: National Express West Midlands buses serve stops along Smallbrook Queensway.
Station layout
- Main concourse zones: The station is divided into colour-coded lounges (Red, Blue, Yellow), helping you quickly match departure boards to your platform area.
- Platform allocation: Manchester services depart from platforms 10-12, though this can vary, so always check live boards before heading down.
- Vertical layout: Platforms sit below concourse level; escalators and lifts provide step-free access, but allow extra time during peak hours.
Pre-departure essentials
For a quick meal deal, head to Boots or M&S Food on the main concourse before passing through the barriers. Coffee options like Joe & The Juice and Leon sit beneath the atrium. If you have time, the Grand Central shopping area above offers more variety and is worth visiting before heading to your platform.
Onboard trains from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly
The journey takes around 90 minutes, with trains reaching speeds of up to 125 mph. It’s a varied ride through industrial hubs and open countryside, offering more visual interest than you might expect for a relatively short intercity trip.
The scenic side
- Sit on the right-hand side for open countryside views across Staffordshire and glimpses of the Pennines as you approach Manchester, especially on clear days.
- Sit on the left-hand side for a more urban perspective, including Birmingham’s industrial outskirts and the historic pottery landscapes around Stoke-on-Trent.
Key landmarks
- Stoke-on-Trent pottery kilns: Distinctive bottle-shaped kilns appear near the tracks, reflecting the area’s ceramics heritage and long-standing industrial identity.
- Jodrell Bank Observatory: Look to the right between Stafford and Manchester for the Lovell Telescope, a striking white dish and UNESCO-listed scientific landmark.
- Wolverhampton’s Molineux Stadium: Visible shortly after departure on the right-hand side, this stadium stands out with its bold structure and football heritage.
Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly
With over 27 million passengers annually, Manchester Piccadilly is the largest station in the North West. Despite its size, it’s highly accessible, with the city centre just a short walk away and excellent onward transport connections.
The correct exit
- Main entrance (city centre): Follow signs toward the large glass facade leading to Piccadilly Approach, ideal for hotels, shopping areas, and central Manchester landmarks.
- Fairfield Street exit: Located near Platforms 10–12 via lifts or stairs, this quieter exit is best for taxis, Canal Street, and the University of Manchester.
- Metrolink access point: Clearly marked yellow “M” signs lead downstairs from the concourse directly to the tram platforms without exiting the station building.
- Station forecourt: Offers immediate access to buses and pick-up points, useful if you’re meeting someone or continuing by road transport.
Onward travel
- Metrolink trams: Fast and frequent services connect to St Peter’s Square, Market Street, and beyond, making it the quickest way to navigate central Manchester.
- Local buses: Multiple routes depart from stops outside the main entrance, connecting suburbs and Greater Manchester areas efficiently.
- Rail connections: Platforms 13 and 14 handle through services, including quick links to Manchester Airport in around 20 minutes.
Walkability
From the main entrance, a straightforward 10-minute walk takes you to Piccadilly Gardens, the city’s central hub. Key shopping streets, restaurants, and business districts are all within comfortable walking distance, making onward travel optional for many visitors.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly
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).
FAQ
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How much is a train from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly?
Tickets from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly typically cost £40.86, but can be as cheap as £18.00 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 Manchester Piccadilly?
The journey should take, on average, 1h 40m, though it can be as quick as 1h 28m 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 Manchester Piccadilly?
Yes, there is a direct train between Birmingham New Street and Manchester Piccadilly. 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 Manchester Piccadilly?
You can typically book tickets from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly 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 Manchester Piccadilly?
The distance between Birmingham New Street and Manchester Piccadilly is approximately 70 miles (113km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly?
There is 79 train running from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly 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 Manchester Piccadilly?
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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