Derby to Birmingham New Street Trains From £8.40*

On the train from Derby to Birmingham New Street, your route across the Midlands will be simple and quick on this direct route. Here are our top tips for a stylish connection onboard CrossCountry trains.

What’s it like on CrossCountry trains?

Is CrossCountry First Class worth it?

The value of a First Class upgrade depends on your travel priorities and budget. If you choose to buy a First Class ticket with CrossCountry, you’ll get a larger seat, with more table space, and a quieter carriage. Enjoy non-alcoholic drinks and snacks brought to you throughout your journey while you sit back and relax.

How many bags can I bring on CrossCountry trains?

CrossCountry allows passengers to carry up to three pieces of luggage onboard for free. For most passengers, this is plenty to carry everything you’ll need for your trip to Birmingham. Remember: the largest item should not measure more than 30 x 70 x 90 cm, and it is important to place any large bags in luggage racks at the ends of aisles to avoid taking up a seat or blocking other passengers.

Can I get Wi-Fi on CrossCountry?

Yes, connect your laptop, phone or other device to complimentary Wi-Fi on CrossCountry trains. Train Wi-Fi is ideal for sending emails or planning your travel itinerary, but you won’t be able to stream video content, so be sure to download any TV shows or films you might want to watch in advance. When travelling on a train, internet connectivity may cut out at certain points in the journey – so please be patient!

Travel from Derby to Birmingham using these local station secrets for the most enjoyable journey to the Brummie heartland. Whether it’s the daily commute or a leisure outing, you’ll be able to experience everything England’s second city has to offer when you take the train.

Derby: Getting to the Platform

• Bus: Buses in Derby are operated by Arriva, Trentbarton, and Notts & Derby Buses, with plenty of routes that will drop you off directly outside the station. To get to Derby Station by foot, head south east from the city centre, along Siddals Road.
• Leaving Derby: CrossCountry trains from Derby to Birmingham typically depart from platforms 2 or 3. Before you board, buy snacks and drinks from WHSmith at the Railway Terrace entrance, or grab a coffee at Cafe Local on the central concourse.

Onboard trains from Derby to Birmingham New Street

What are the views like between Derby and Birmingham? In the 35-minute journey across the Midlands, you’ll see iconic cities, and a lot of countryside. Here are the best sights that window-gazers should look out for.

• Key Landmarks: After the green rolling fields outside Derby, you’ll cross the RIver Trent, before passing through Loughborough, Leicester, and Nuneaton. Burbage Common And Woods Country Park is part of a scenic stretch between Croft and Hinckley.
• The View Alert: For the best views from Derby to Birmingham New Street, choose a seat on the Right-Hand Side (facing South).

Arriving at Birmingham New Street

Birmingham New Street is more than a station; it’s a Birmingham institution. With connections by tram, train, bike, or on foot, it is a convenient launchpad for trips around the Midlands, as well as being a top attraction in its own right.  

• First attraction? You’re in it!: When you arrive in New Street Station, don’t forget to look up! The station has a unique atrium roof that allows natural light to flood the concourse – a clever design and an impressive sight to welcome passengers to Birmingham.
• Walking the city: Birmingham New Street is located next to the Grand Central shopping centre, which has a wide selection of big-name shops, making it easy to stroll to the start of your shopping spree. Likewise, you can get to Birmingham Cathedral and the Library of Birmingham within 10 minutes’ walk of the station on foot. If you want to travel further afield, board the West Midlands Metro from outside the station.