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Manchester to Birmingham train ticket prices
€10.95
On Mon 29 Jun
Manchester to Birmingham train timetable
The journey from Manchester to Birmingham on the fastest train in 1h 28m, usually 1h 32m. Each day, 53 trains leave from Manchester, starting at 05:11 and ending at 23:37. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
13:25 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 32m, Direct | 14:57 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
13:30 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 50m, 1 change | 15:20 Birmingham New Street | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
14:03 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 30m, Direct | 15:33 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
14:25 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 32m, Direct | 15:57 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
14:31 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 49m, 1 change | 16:20 Birmingham New Street | Transport for Wales | Find tickets |
Manchester to Birmingham train tickets and times
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.
CrossCountry vs Avanti West Coast: Which should you choose?
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
CrossCountry | 1h30m | Manchester Piccadilly | Longer journeys requiring comfort; business travellers | Pendolino trains, 3 classes, Standard Premium, Club Avanti rewards |
Avanti West Coast | 1h35m | Manchester Piccadilly | limited frequency; budget-conscious travellers | Voyager fleet, Free WiFi all classes, Complimentary catering in First Class |
Train travel from Manchester to Birmingham
Manchester Piccadilly: Getting to the Platform
The Metrolink tram stop is directly outside the station, connecting Manchester city centre to the airport and surrounding areas with frequent services.
Manchester Piccadilly has 14 platforms, all located below the main concourse and accessible via escalators, lifts and stairs. The station is organised into distinct sections with clear signage:
- Main Concourse: Ticket offices, self-service machines, and information points are located on the ground floor
- Platform Access: Long-distance trains typically depart from Platforms 7–14, located at the far end of the concourse
Onboard trains from Manchester to Birmingham
CrossCountry offers high-quality trains with Wi-Fi, tables, and outlets, allowing you to work comfortably while watching the landscape transition from the industrial towns of Greater Manchester into the rolling farmland of the West Midlands.
The scenic side
As the train travels south through Stockport and Macclesfield, the landscape shifts from the urban sprawl of Greater Manchester towards the fringes of the Peak District, with rolling hills visible to the west. To catch the best views, sit on the left-hand side of the train.
Key landmarks
Keep an eye out for Stockport Viaduct as you depart Manchester — one of the largest brick structures in the world and an impressive feat of Victorian engineering.
Arriving at Birmingham New Street
Birmingham New Street is one of Britain's most modern stations, redeveloped in 2015 with a fantastic atrium. Outside, a mirrored roof and media screens signal the main bus and tram stops.
The three exits
- Grand Central Exit (Main Exit): The primary way out leads directly into the Grand Central shopping centre, with shops, cafés and restaurants immediately accessible. This is also the quickest route to the city centre and Victoria Square.
- Hill Street Exit: The British Transport Police station is located at the entrance off Hill Street — a quieter exit useful if heading south of the station.
Onward Travel
- West Midlands Metro (Tram): The Metro connects Birmingham city centre to Wolverhampton, with trams every 8–10 minutes. The nearest tram stop is just outside the station.
- By foot to Moor Street: Birmingham Moor Street station is just 600 metres away — useful if continuing your journey on Chiltern Railways.
Walkability
Grand Central shopping centre sits directly above the station, making it one of the most convenient city centre arrivals in the UK. The Bullring, Selfridges and Birmingham city centre are all within a 5-minute walk.
Manchester to Birmingham train travel guide
The train journey from Manchester to Birmingham combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Manchester, you can get to Birmingham in just 1h 28m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Manchester to Birmingham?
Ticket prices from Manchester to Birmingham average around €10.95, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
How do I find the best train route from Manchester to Birmingham?
What is the fastest train from Manchester to Birmingham?
The fastest train journey time from Manchester to Birmingham 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.
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
Is it worth taking a train from Manchester to Birmingham?
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?
Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Manchester to Birmingham trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Manchester to Birmingham trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Manchester to Birmingham is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
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.
Do Manchester to Birmingham trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Manchester to Birmingham 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?
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.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific 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?
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
Which train companies operate the Manchester to Birmingham route?
The Manchester to Birmingham route is operated by Avanti West Coast. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.
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
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
How to buy cheap Manchester to Birmingham train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
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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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