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Manchester to Birmingham train ticket prices
€9.39
On Sat 11 Apr
Manchester to Birmingham train timetable
Travelling from Manchester to Birmingham, the fastest train takes 1h 28m with an average travel time of 1h 31m. 53 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:11 and the last at 23:37. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
05:11 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 41m, 1 change | 06:52 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
05:11 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 46m, Direct | 06:57 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
05:23 Manchester Piccadilly | 2h 25m, 1 change | 07:48 Birmingham New Street | Northern | Find tickets |
06:07 Manchester Piccadilly | 2h 13m, 1 change | 08:20 Birmingham New Street | Northern | Find tickets |
06:23 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 41m, Direct | 08:04 Birmingham New Street | Avanti West Coast | 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
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 1h 28m, 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 Manchester to Birmingham?
Ticket prices from Manchester to Birmingham average around €9.39, 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 quickest train journey from Manchester to Birmingham takes 1h 28m . 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.
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?
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
How do I find Manchester to Birmingham train timetables?
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.
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 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
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?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Manchester to Birmingham route?
The route from Manchester to Birmingham 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
Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.
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Bicycle
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.
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Children
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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Pets
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed 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 Manchester to Birmingham train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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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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