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Manchester to Birmingham train ticket prices
For a train from Manchester to Birmingham, Advance Tickets are available starting at €11.43*, with the average fare being €25.95. 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
€25.95
From 29 Dec to 04 Jan
Cheapest
€11.43
On Tue 30 Dec
Manchester to Birmingham train times
From Manchester to Birmingham, take the fastest train in 1 hour 28 minutes, typically 1 hour 50 minutes. Daily, 81 trains depart from Manchester, with the first at 05:11 and the last at 23:36. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
16:03 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 hour 30 minutes, Direct | 17:33 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
16:06 Manchester Piccadilly | 2 hours 14 minutes, 1 change | 18:20 Birmingham New Street | Northern | Find tickets |
16:25 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 hour 31 minutes, Direct | 17:56 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
16:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 1 hour 50 minutes, 1 change | 18:20 Birmingham New Street | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
16:36 Manchester Piccadilly | 2 hours 12 minutes, 1 change | 18:48 Birmingham New Street | Northern | Find tickets |
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Manchester to Birmingham Train journey information
Plan your journey from Manchester to Birmingham 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
05:11
Last train
23:36
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
1 hour 28 minutes
Distance
70 miles (113km)
Price
From €11.43
Train operators
CrossCountry: Manchester to Birmingham trains
Traveling from Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street is quick and easy with a direct train run by CrossCountry. With 20 daily departures, you'll have plenty of trains to choose from.
The comfortable 1.5-hour journey takes you through scenic towns and cities while offering convenient connections between major cities across England, Scotland, and Wales, including Birmingham, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Cardiff.
Check out TrainPal for the best way to buy cheap train tickets and remember to use your Railcard for extra savings.
Departing from Manchester Piccadilly
The fastest route from Manchester to Birmingham departs from Manchester Piccadilly station. The station is conveniently located right in the city's centre, making it a super convenient station from which to leave. It’s only a 25-minute walk from Manchester Victoria Station, a 10-minute walk from Manchester Bus Station, and is connected to Manchester Airport’s shuttle train.
Manchester Piccadilly is managed by Network Rail, and as one of the busiest railway stations in the UK outside of London, a range of train operators run their services from Picadilly, such as Northern Rail, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, and TransPennine Express.
Main stops
The main stops for the Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street train are Stockport, Macclesfield, Stoke-on-Trent, Stafford, and Wolverhampton. However, stops may vary depending on the service. It’s best to check which stations the train passes through before you travel.
Arriving at Birmingham New Street
Birmingham New Street is located directly in the city centre. It is close to Birmingham’s other two central train stations, Birmingham Snow Hill and Birmingham Moor Street, which is good to know if you have ongoing connecting trains.
Major UK train operators, including Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midland Trains, and Transport for Wales, use Birmingham New Street with many trains connecting Birmingham to London Euston station.
There is plenty to do near Birmingham New Street, from a wide range of retail, dining, and nightlife to world-class museums.
CrossCountry train classes
- Standard Class: Onboard Wi-Fi, charging points, and tables. Snacks and drinks are available from the onboard shop.
- First Class: Manchester to Birmingham New Street First Class tickets provide for a more spacious and comfortable journey with larger seats and complimentary refreshments.
CrossCountry train travel advice
- Luggage: A maximum of three items: one small item, one medium-sized bag, and one large suitcase.
- Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small pets are free of charge. They must be well-behaved and do not disturb other passengers. Two pets per passenger.
- Bicycles: Bicycle reservations are required before traveling.
- 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.
Manchester to Birmingham train travel guide
Travelling by train from Manchester to Birmingham is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Manchester, you can reach Birmingham in just 1 hour 28 minutes, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
1. Where can I buy the cheapest train tickets from Manchester to Birmingham?
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 Manchester to Birmingham?
Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Manchester to Birmingham 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 fastest train from Manchester to Birmingham?
The quickest train journey from Manchester to Birmingham takes 1 hour 28 minutes . 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 Manchester to Birmingham?
No, there are no direct trains from Manchester to Birmingham. 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 Manchester to Birmingham trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Manchester to Birmingham 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?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.
3. Do Manchester to Birmingham trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Manchester to Birmingham are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
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?
Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone
Save 1/3 with Railcards† from Manchester to Birmingham
Family & Friends Railcard
€17.30
With Family & Friends Railcard
€25.95
Without
How to buy cheap Manchester to Birmingham 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.
* By combining Advance Ticket offers with split tickets, you’ll get lower fares when you book at least one week before travel (excluding Anytime fares bought on the day of travel). Availability depends on the specific route and cannot be combined with other promotions.
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