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Birmingham to Manchester train ticket prices
For a train from Birmingham to Manchester, Advance Tickets are available starting at €17.60*, with the average fare being €12.30. Find out about different ticket types and options by checking out our Advance Tickets, Off-Peak Train Tickets, Return Train Tickets, and Anytime Train Tickets. Explore more affordable choices in our UK cheap train ticket Guide!
Average
€12.30
From 06 Nov to 12 Nov
Cheapest
€17.60
On Fri 07 Nov
Birmingham to Manchester train times
The journey from Birmingham to Manchester on the fastest train in 1h 28m, usually 1h 29m. Each day, 48 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.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
06:01 Birmingham New Street | 1h 28m, Direct | 07:29 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
06:30 Birmingham New Street | 1h 29m, Direct | 07:59 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
07:01 Birmingham New Street | 1h 28m, Direct | 08:29 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
07:04 Birmingham New Street | 1h 41m, 1 change | 08:45 Manchester Piccadilly | West Midlands Trains | Find tickets |
07:26 Birmingham New Street | 1h 33m, Direct | 08:59 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | 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
Arrival station
Journey time
1h 28m
Distance
70 miles (113 km)
Price
From €17.60
Train operators
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
Travelling by train from Birmingham to Manchester is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Birmingham, you can reach Manchester in just 1h 28m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
1. How can I find cheap train tickets from Birmingham to Manchester?
Looking for discounted train tickets? Use Railcards, book in advance, and travel off-peak. Group travel with friends or family can also help you save. Frequent travellers should consider Season Tickets. TrainPal provides even more savings with split tickets and discount codes. Learn more about buying cheap train tickets in the UK.
2. How do I find the best train route from Birmingham to Manchester?
Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Birmingham to Manchester train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!
3. What is the best way to travel from Birmingham to Manchester by train?
The fastest train journey time from Birmingham to Manchester is 1h 28m . 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.
4. Are there direct trains from Birmingham to Manchester?
No, there are no direct trains from Birmingham to Manchester. 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
Check timetables and during the journey
1. Are Birmingham to Manchester trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Birmingham to Manchester trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
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?
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4. 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.
Other things you might be interested
1. Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.
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?
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.
Save 1/3 with Railcards† from Birmingham to Manchester
Family & Friends Railcard
€8.20
With Family & Friends Railcard
€12.30
Without
How to buy cheap Birmingham to Manchester train tickets
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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.
* 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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