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Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly train ticket prices
€11.44
On Mon 18 May
Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly 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.
Travelling with CrossCountry: Onboard Experience
Is CrossCountry a reliable operator?
How regular are trains from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly?
Does CrossCountry offer First Class tickets?
How much luggage can I bring on CrossCountry trains?
Train travel from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly
Birmingham New Street: Getting to the Platform
- While you wait: Shoppaholics will love waiting at Birmingham New Street, as the station sits below the Grand Central shopping centre. Relax in a big-name or independent coffee shop, browse stores like Foyles or Hotel Chocolat, or enjoy a virtual reality experience at the Sandbox VR at the next-door Bullring.
- Get the right zone: Birmingham New Street is a large station, so allow plenty of time to find your platform. The station is divided into different zones (Red, Green, and Blue) to make it easier to navigate. Trains to Manchester typically depart from platforms 6 to 12, which can be accessed via the Green Lounge.
Onboard trains from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly
- Key Landmarks: Your route to Manchester Piccadilly will take you past interesting landmarks such as Mow Cop Castle, north of Stoke-on-Trent, and the Silk Museum in Macclesfield.
- The View Alert: Sit on the Right-Hand Side of the carriage (facing North) to see miles of lush Staffordshire fields in the middle part of the journey.
Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly
- Pint or pharmacy: If you’re thirsty upon arrival in Manchester, why not stop for a drink in The Mill before leaving the station? You’ll also find Costa Coffee and other restaurant chains in the station, plus shops like WHSmith and Boots.
- Beware many exits: CrossCountry trains from Birmingham will typically arrive at platform 3 or 4. The main exit is Station Approach, which is the best choice for onward travel via tram or bus. Another exit leads to Piccadilly Plaza, ideal for those walking to the city centre or Piccadilly Gardens. The Fairfield Street exit, to the southwest of the station, has a convenient taxi rank, while anyone heading to Manchester University or the Northern Quarter should exit onto London Road.
- Free bus to city centre: Manchester has an excellent public transport network, including the Manchester Metrolink tram system, and a free bus service to the city centre.
Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly train travel guide
Travelling by train from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Birmingham, you can reach Manchester Piccadilly in just 1h 27m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly?
The average ticket fare from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly is about €11.44, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
How do I find the best train route from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly?
What is the fastest train from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly?
The fastest train journey time from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly is 1h 27m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly?
Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly 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.
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.
Do Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly 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.
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.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the train operator.
Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
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.
Which train companies operate the Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly route?
The route from Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly is operated by Avanti West Coast. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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Bicycle
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. 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. 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
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap Birmingham to Manchester Piccadilly train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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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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