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Home > UK Train Journey > Birmingham to Manchester Train

Birmingham to Manchester train ticket prices

For a train from Birmingham to Manchester, Advance Tickets start at just £3.38*, with average fares around £9.61. Additionally, Off-Peak train tickets, Return train tickets, and Anytime Train Tickets are also great tips for saving money on train travel. Enjoy the cheapest and happiest journey with TrainPal. For more money-saving information, welcome to our UK cheap train ticket guide.

Birmingham to Manchester train times

The journey from Birmingham to Manchester on the fastest train in 1h 28m, usually 1h 29m. Each day, 47 trains leave from Birmingham, starting at 01:35 and ending at 23:22. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

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Departs	Arrives	Status	Duration	Operator
01:35 Birmingham New Street	06:43 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	5h 8m	Avanti West Coast	Find tickets
06:01 Birmingham New Street	07:29 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	1h 28m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
06:30 Birmingham New Street	07:59 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	1h 29m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
07:01 Birmingham New Street	08:29 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	1h 28m	CrossCountry	Find tickets
07:04 Birmingham New Street	08:45 Manchester Piccadilly	On time	1h 41m	West Midlands Trains	Find tickets

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Birmingham to Manchester Train journey information

Plan your journey from Birmingham to Manchester 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.

First train	01:35
Last train	23:22
Departure station	Birmingham
Arrival station	Manchester
Distance	70 miles (113 km)
Journey time	From 1h 28m
Price	From £3.38
Train operators	Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Northern

CrossCountry: Birmingham to Manchester trains

It only takes around 1 hour and a half to get from Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly with CrossCountry, and with 20 CrossCountry trains running daily, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

You can sit back and relax as your train takes you through legendary Midlands and northern hangouts and rolling countryside. CrossCountry provides services that link towns and cities throughout England, Scotland, and Wales, connecting major UK cities such as Birmingham, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Cardiff with a fast and convenient train service.

Luckily, it’s easy to get to Manchester from Birmingham. Buy cheap train tickets with TrainPal, and don’t forget to add your Railcard for an even bigger discount.

Departing from Birmingham New Street

Birmingham New Street is the busiest of Birmingham’s three train stations and is a central UK railway hub. It first opened all the way back in 1854!

Although Birmingham New Street is managed by Network Rail, it is a central hub for CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast services, as well as regional services in the Midlands.

Main stops

The main stops along this journey include Wolverhampton, Stafford, Stoke-on-Trent, Macclesfield, and Stockport. Although stops may vary depending on the time of the service.

Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly

The Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly train drops you off in the largest and most well-connected train station in Manchester. It is in the city's southeast and is a highly accessible railway station, with buses, taxis, and Metrolink trams nearby. Manchester Victoria train station is only a 25-minute walk if you are making an onward connection by rail.

Manchester Piccadilly services other major UK destinations, including Liverpool, York, Edinburgh, Sheffield, Newcastle, Leeds, and Bradford. Many train operators serve this station, including Northern Rail, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, and Transport for Wales.

There’s lots to do around Manchester Piccadilly. It’s just a five-minute walk from the station into the city centre, with shopping, restaurants, and cafes nearby. You could visit the neighbouring Manchester Art Gallery, the city’s famous creative district and premier hangout spot - the Northern Quarter or enjoy shopping at the Arndale Centre just minutes from Manchester Piccadilly.

CrossCountry train classes

Standard Class: Travelling in Standard gives you access to onboard Wi-Fi, charging stations, and tables alongside snacks and drinks from the onboard shop.
First Class: Travelling from Birmingham to Manchester First Class gives you access to larger, more spacious seating as well as free complimentary refreshments.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Luggage: Up to three items of luggage: one small item, one medium-sized bag, and one large suitcase.
Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small pets can travel for free. Each passenger can bring a maximum of two pets.
Bicycles: Book a space before travelling.
Children: Children receive cheaper tickets. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
Passenger Assist: Provide assistance at stations and on trains, or during transfers, help with luggage, offer discounts for disabled passengers, and other services.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Birmingham to Manchester train travel guide

The train journey from Birmingham to Manchester combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Birmingham, you can get to Manchester in just 1h 28m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

1. Where can I buy the cheapest train tickets from Birmingham to Manchester?

Want to spend less on the journey from Birmingham to Manchester? TrainPal can help: choose a Railcard, Season Tickets, or split tickets. Book in advance, travel off-peak, and use discount codes for extra savings. Explore more options for cheap train tickets in the UK.

2. What is the best way to travel from Birmingham to Manchester by train?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Birmingham to Manchester.

3. What is the fastest train from Birmingham to Manchester?

The quickest train journey from Birmingham to Manchester takes 1h 28m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.

4. Are there direct trains from Birmingham to Manchester?

Yes, there are direct trains from Birmingham to Manchester. You can check to find the live train timetable, stops, and more details. No transfers are needed, allowing you to reach your destination smoothly and effortlessly.

5. What are the main train operating companies from Birmingham to Manchester?

From Birmingham to Manchester, the main train operator is Avanti West Coast. TrainPal also compares live schedules and services from other train companies. Our goal is to help you book cheap train tickets for a cost-saving and relaxed journey.

6. How far in advance can I book UK train tickets?

In the UK, you can usually book train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This allows you to lock in the best prices and guarantee your seat, particularly during peak travel times. For certain routes, tickets might be available even sooner, so it's wise to consult TrainPal for the latest information.

Check timetables and during the journey

1. How do I find Birmingham to Manchester train timetables?

Birmingham to Manchester 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.

2. 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.

3. Do Birmingham to Manchester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Birmingham to Manchester 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.

4. How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.

Other things you might be interested

1. Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

2. Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

3. How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Without

Buy Senior Railcard

† Railcards offer discounted train tickets, with various types based on age and number of travellers. Enjoy up to 1/3 off for a cheaper journey. The actual price will vary based on factors such as the train service, time, and ticket availability.

Compensation and refunds

Trainpal makes it simple to adjust your travel plans, get refunds, and request Delay Repay.

Change your plans or get a refund: Visit our Ticket Refunds and Changes page.
Check for any train delays or interruptions:Go to our train Delays and Disruptions page or UK Rail Strike page.

Need help? Just contact us!

How to buy cheap Birmingham to Manchester train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Split tickets

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Book in advance

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Off-Peak train tickets

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

Use a Railcard

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Save with Season Tickets

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

Travel in groups

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.

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More train routes

Trains from Birmingham	Trains from Manchester
Birmingham to London	Manchester to London
Birmingham to London Euston	Manchester to Leeds
Birmingham to Coventry	Manchester to Liverpool
Birmingham to Nottingham	Manchester to Edinburgh
-	Manchester to Sheffield

* 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.

** Save an average of 73% by combining Advance Ticket savings of 73% with an additional 30% through split tickets. These savings apply to Advance fares booked at least one week before travel, excluding Anytime fares purchased on the day of travel. Availability may vary by route and may not be combined with other offers.

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Birmingham to Manchester Trains From £17.90*

Save an average of 73%** by advance booking and split tickets