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Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street train times and prices
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
€11.93
On Thu 5
Live timetable and departures
The journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street on the fastest train in 1h 28m, usually 1h 50m. Each day, 92 trains leave from Manchester Piccadilly, starting at 00:24 and ending at 23:36. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
04:00 Manchester Piccadilly | 4h 50m, 3 change | 08:50 Birmingham New Street | LNR & WMR | Find tickets |
04:33 Manchester Piccadilly | 4h 57m, 1 change | 09:30 Birmingham New Street | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
05:04 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 48m, 1 change | 06:52 Birmingham New Street | LNR & WMR | Find tickets |
05:11 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 41m, 1 change | 06:52 Birmingham New Street | LNR & WMR | Find tickets |
05:11 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 46m, Direct | 06:57 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street
- CrossCountry
- LNR & WMR
- Northern
CrossCountry combines one of the UK’s widest intercity networks with fast long-distance services linking the South West, South Coast, Midlands, Wales, Yorkshire, the North East and Scotland without relying on a London terminus.
Its Class 220 and 221 Voyager trains reach 125 mph, while Class 170 Turbostars cover regional routes. A Voyager fleet refurbishment is adding improved seating, lighting and Wi-Fi.
First Class
Standard
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"CrossCountry’s Voyager services can get busy as they progress along their routes, so choosing the right carriage can make a noticeable difference. On Class 220 and 221 trains, Coach B (on 5-car sets) or specific designated seats in Coach D (on 4-car sets) serve as the unreserved seating areas, making them worth checking if you are travelling with a flexible ticket or cannot reserve a seat."
"It is also worth checking if your service is being operated by one of the £75 million refurbished Voyager trains. The updated trains can be identified by their distinctive red livery with a white X and feature USB-A and USB-C charging ports built into the seat frames, making it easier to keep devices charged throughout a longer journey."
Essential onboard policies
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Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
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Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- 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 when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- 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
- Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier.
- Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Departing from Manchester Piccadilly
Address:
Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom
Public Transport Links:
Tram: Piccadilly tram station is on the Blue and Yellow lines of the Metrolink network, serving Manchester Airport, Bury, Altrincham and other areas.
Bus: First and Stagecoach operate many routes across the city and Greater Manchester, including Fallowfield, West Didsbury and Cheetham Hill. Both of the city’s free bus routes also stop at the station.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: You can catch a cab or have the driver drop you off at the station’s taxi rank on Fairfield Street.
Platforms:
16 platforms in total (14 National Rail and 2 Metrolink). Platforms 1-4 are mostly used by trains to Sheffield, Huddersfield and Crewe. Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry tend to use the longest platforms (5-9), while local services use the shorter(14 National Rail and 2 Metrolink) platforms (10-12). Services to Manchester Airport generally call at platforms 9-12. Trains to Wales, the north of England and Scotland typically depart from platform 13 or 14.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Use the lift to the left of the waiting area or on Fairfield Street to avoid the concourse crowds and long stair routes. It is ideal for getting around the station with luggage and moving between rail platforms, the tram stop and taxi rank."
FAQs about Manchester Piccadilly Station
Is there parking at Manchester Piccadilly station?
Yes, the station has a 24-hour long-stay car park on Boad Street with 856 spaces and 32 accessible bays. For short stays and drop-offs, use the car park on Fairfield Street (open 24 hours). There are 47 spaces and three accessible parking bays.
What time does Manchester Piccadilly train station open?
Manchester Piccadilly generally opens about 20 minutes before the first train, around 02:40.
Are there lockers at Manchester Piccadilly station?
There aren’t any self-service lockers at Manchester Piccadilly, but the station does have a left luggage office. The office is located between platforms 10 and 11. Drop off and pick up your belongings from 07:00–23:00, Monday to Saturday and 08:00–23:00 on Sunday.
What food places are in Manchester Piccadilly station?
Manchester Piccadilly station has a range of coffee kiosks, fast food outlets and grocery shops. Options include Tortilla, M&S and Caffè Nero.
Does Manchester Piccadilly station have toilets?
Yes, there are toilets opposite platforms 11 and 12 at Manchester Piccadilly. Additional facilities are on the upper concourse and near the waiting lounge by platforms 13 and 14. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available.
Arriving at Birmingham New Street
Address:
Station Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom
Onward Transit Options:
Tram: Grand Central is on Line 1 of the West Midlands Metro, running between Edgbaston Village and Wolverhampton St George’s or Wolverhampton.
Bus: Local routes stop on Smallbrook Queensway and Station Street in front of the Southside entrance. Destinations include Yardley, Birmingham University and Perry Barr.
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: The official taxi rank is located on Navigation Street (accessed via the Stephenson Street exit). Dedicated passenger drop-offs (Drop & Go) take place at the Hill Street entrance.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Bullring Bull Sculpture (3-min walk)
The Alexandra Theatre (4-min walk)
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (7-min walk)
Library of Birmingham (11-min walk)
Custard Factory (16-min walk)
Airport Transfers:
Frequent direct trains (Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, TfW, and London Northwestern Railway) connect Birmingham New Street to Birmingham International in 10–15 minutes, where a free 2-minute Air-Rail Link takes you straight to the airport terminal. Direct hourly CrossCountry services also run straight to Stansted Airport in around 3 hours and 15 minutes.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Navigating Birmingham New Street is easiest via section B on platforms 1-12. Using these stairs or lifts leads straight to the Red Lounge and footbridge concourse, which allows direct transfers between all platforms without passing back through the main ticket barriers. The station layout can be confusing, so checking the colour-coded zone signs (Red, Yellow, and Blue) helps you find exits and connections faster."
FAQs: Birmingham New Street Station
Does Birmingham New Street station have a car park?
There is a short-stay car park at the station, but spaces are limited (38 spaces and four Blue Badge spaces).
Is Birmingham New Street step-free?
Yes, Birmingham New Street station has lifts and ramps to provide step-free access to all platforms and trains.
What shops are in Birmingham New Street station?
Birmingham New Street has a range of convenience and food shops, including WHSmith, Costa, Leon and Boots.
Can you leave luggage at Birmingham New Street station?
Yes, passengers can drop off a bag or suitcase at Birmingham New Street’s left luggage office opposite the entrance to platforms 10A and 11A. The office is open 07:00–23:00 from Monday to Saturday and 08:00–23:00 on Sundays.
Where are the toilets in Birmingham New Street station?
Birmingham New Street has toilets in each zone near the lounges past the ticket barriers. In the Blue Zone, the toilets are near platform 1A. The Green Zone loos are by platform 12A, and the toilets in the Red Zone are near platform 12B. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available.
Avanti West Coast vs CrossCountry: Which should you choose?
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Avanti West Coast | 1h 38m | Manchester Piccadilly | Business, upgrade options | Standard Premium Class (First Class benefits at a lower price) |
CrossCountry | 1h 31m | Manchester Piccadilly | Budget, frequent departures | Cheaper Advance tickets, First Class upgrade option, at-seat catering |
- Avanti only offers early morning departures at 06:02 and 06:23 on weekdays. Three train classes are available to book, with a selection of benefits to suit your taste and budget.
- CrossCountry services are typically faster and cheaper. Wait no more than half an hour for a direct train during peak hours.
Train travel from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street
Manchester Piccadilly: Getting to the platform
Starting your trip at Manchester Piccadilly station is easy, no matter where you’re commuting from in the city. Walk from the city centre or arrive by Bee Network bus or Metrolink tram (Blue and Yellow lines).
- Free bus routes: Get to the station via two zero-fare bus services. Route 1 serves Deansgate, Spinningfields and Central coach station, whereas Route 2 connects Chinatown, the Royal Exchange and the Medieval Quarter to Manchester Piccadilly.
- Finding your platform: Services from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street tend to stop at platform 3 or 4 near the information point. Double-check the departures board and allow plenty of time to walk through the station and board your train.
- Shopping and dining: Grab a quick bite or coffee from one of the many outlets like Carluccio’s or the Pasty Shop. If you fancy picking up a book, treat or gift, pay a visit to WHSmith, Accessorize or Cards Galore.
On board trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street
Treat yourself to refreshments and views of scenic green spaces and former industrial sites - all from the comfort of your seat.
- Scenery from the window: The Manchester to Birmingham train zooms across rural landscapes and Cheshire farmland. Sit on either side of the train for great views of the North and Midlands.
- Refreshments delivered to you: Order drinks, light snacks, tasty sandwiches and meal deals to your seat. Snacks and beverages are free in First Class.
Arriving at Birmingham New Street
Birmingham New Street station serves as a perfect gateway into the vibrant Midlands city. Navigate its exits and onward travel links with ease.
- Grand Central/Bullring exits: There are multiple exits across Birmingham New Street leading up to the Grand Central and Bullring shopping centres above.
- Victoria Square exit: Head this way out if you’re boarding the West Midlands Metro tram.
- Navigation Street exit: This exit is located near the Black Sabbath mural.
- Southside exit: Board local buses here or head to one of Station Street’s restaurants.
- Smallbrook Queensway exit: More buses, as well as the taxi rank, can be directly accessed from this exit.
- Travelling around Brum: Step out of the station, and you’re a short stroll away from the city centre, Jewellery Quarter and Custard Factory on foot. New Street also offers rapid transfers to local bus routes, trams to Wolverhampton and the Air-Rail Link shuttle to/from Birmingham Airport.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street
Apply for CrossCountry Delay Repay
CrossCountry calculates Delay Repay compensation according to how late you arrive at your final destination, regardless of the cause of the delay. It operates under Delay Repay 30, so delays of less than 30 minutes are not eligible.
30 to 59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket, or 50% of the journey cost of a Season Ticket
60 to 119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket, or 100% of the journey cost of a Season Ticket
120 minutes or more: 100% of the total ticket cost, whether single, return or Season Ticket
Apply for Northern Delay Repay
Northern bases Delay Repay compensation on the length of your delay when you reach your final destination and the type of ticket you hold.
15 to 29 minutes: 25% of the cost of a single ticket, or 12.5% of a return ticket
30 to 59 minutes: 50% of the cost of a single ticket, or 25% of a return ticket
60 to 119 minutes: 100% of the cost of a single ticket, or 50% of a return ticket
120 minutes or more: 100% of the total ticket cost, including the full cost of a return ticket
FAQ
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How much is a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street?
Tickets from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street typically cost €53.97, but can be as cheap as €11.93 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
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How long is the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street?
The journey should take, on average, 1h 50m, though it can be as quick as 1h 28m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
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Is there a direct train from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street?
Yes, there is a direct train between Manchester Piccadilly and Birmingham New Street. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including where you will have to make a changeover. Check each listing for either ‘direct’ or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street?
You can typically book tickets from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train compan.
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How far is Manchester Piccadilly from Birmingham New Street?
The distance between Manchester Piccadilly and Birmingham New Street is approximately 70 miles (113km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street?
There is 92 train running from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
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How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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Can my tickets be refunded or changed?
In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime and Off-Peak tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.
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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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