Birmingham New Street to Nottingham Trains From €12.50*

CrossCountry operates a frequent direct service between Birmingham New Street and Nottingham, covering approximately 45 miles in around 72 minutes on average, with the fastest journeys taking just over 60 minutes. Trains run twice per hour, offering strong daytime frequency for commuters and leisure travellers alike.

Is CrossCountry First Class worth the upgrade?

For a relatively short 45-mile journey, First Class is more about comfort than luxury. It is best suited to passengers prioritising space or working on the move. The upgrade is most noticeable during peak times when Standard Class can feel busy. While complimentary refreshments may be offered depending on service, the main benefit remains quieter carriages and improved seating rather than a materially different travel experience overall.

What can I expect from the onboard experience?

Is there enough luggage space on this route?

Luggage provision is adequate for most passengers, though it is not extensive. Overhead racks accommodate small to medium bags, while larger suitcases are stored in designated vestibule areas at carriage ends. These spaces can fill quickly during busy travel periods, especially weekends and university term changes. Passengers carrying bulky items should board early to secure suitable storage and avoid blocking aisle or door access.

This is one of the Midlands’ most heavily used intercity links, connecting Birmingham’s commercial core with Nottingham’s historic and academic centre in roughly 72 minutes.

Departure from Birmingham New Street

Specific transport links

Station layout

Pre-departure essentials

For a quick purchase, Boots and Sainsbury’s Local on the concourse are the most reliable for meal deals, while coffee outlets in Grand Central offer faster grab-and-go service. Seating areas are available but limited at busy times, particularly near escalator access points.

Onboard trains from Birmingham New Street to Nottingham

The journey covers roughly 50 miles at speeds reaching up to 100mph on faster stretches, depending on stopping patterns.

The scenic side

• Sit on the left-hand side for views leaving Birmingham, including city skyline transitions and industrial suburbs.
• Sit on the right-hand side for more consistent rural views through Staffordshire and approaches toward Nottinghamshire.

Key landmarks

• Tamworth Castle: A Norman motte-and-bailey castle visible near the rail corridor, offering a distinctive historic landmark.
• Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station: Prominent cooling towers near the River Soar, marking a key industrial feature on the approach to Nottingham.
• Tame Valley wetlands: Visible from elevated sections, showing a mix of reservoirs and greenbelt landscape.
• Trent corridor approach: Industrial heritage and waterways appear as the train nears Nottingham’s southern edge.

Arriving at Nottingham

Nottingham station is a key East Midlands hub handling over 7 million passengers annually. The station sits just south of the city centre, offering direct access to trams, buses, and walking routes.

The correct exit

• Station Street exit: Leads directly toward the city centre, ideal for walking to Old Market Square and the Lace Market.
• Queens Road exit: Best for taxis, rideshare services, and access toward the Meadows area.
• Overbridge access: Connects platforms to both exit sides, with clear directional signage.
• City centre signage: Follow signs marked “City Centre” for the most direct walking route.

Onward travel

• NET tram system: Elevated stop directly above platforms connects to Hucknall and Toton Lane routes.
• Nottingham City Transport buses: Frequent services operate from stops outside the main entrance.
• Taxi rank: Located on Queens Road side, typically less congested than main exit.

• Cycle hire points: Available within a short walk of the station for short urban trips.

Walkability

Nottingham city centre is highly walkable, with most central destinations reachable within 10 to 15 minutes on foot. The route from Station Street is flat and clearly signposted, passing key commercial and cultural districts. Many travellers choose to walk rather than use onward transport, particularly for visits to the Lace Market, Old Market Square, and nearby shopping areas.