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Plymouth to Birmingham New Street train ticket prices

Travelling from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street by train? Find fares from as low as €30.39. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.

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Plymouth to Birmingham New Street train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street 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.

Price

From €30.39

Departure station

Plymouth

Arrival station

Birmingham New Street

Distance

174 miles (281km)

Journey time

3h 27m

First train

05:25

Last train

20:08

Frequency

Train operators

CrossCountry, Great Western Railway

CrossCountry: Plymouth to Birmingham New Street trains

By Joshua Pearson | Updated May 20, 2026

Heading from Plymouth on the Devon coast to the heart of the Midlands in Birmingham is simple with CrossCountry. Trains from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street take just 3 hours and 28 minutes, with hourly departures from early morning until late at night. Covering 174 miles, the route blends convenience with scenic variety, perfect whether you’re travelling for business, visiting friends or exploring a new city.

CrossCountry is the premier train company running services between Plymouth and Birmingham New Street, making the 174 mile stretch a breeze.

Catching the train from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street takes you on a scenic journey across England. The train goes through hills and countryside, passing towns and villages along the way, even giving you glimpses of historic cities such as Exeter. As the train gets closer to Birmingham, the view changes to reflect the busy urban areas of the Midlands.

As one of the largest train operators out there, there's no denying the popularity of CrossCountry, a company that's backed by an impressive rail network. It's a train provider known for connecting regions across the country with services linking the South West, the Midlands, the North and Scotland.

Departing from Plymouth

Leaving from Plymouth Railway Station puts you right at the heart of the city, with modern facilities designed to make your journey as comfortable as possible. There's no shortage of things to keep you busy before your train.

Plymouth is a key hub in the South West, served by multiple train operators, so there’s no shortage of transport options. CrossCountry runs direct services to Birmingham New Street, Manchester and other destinations, while Great Western Railway provides high speed connections to London Paddington and Exeter.

If you have time to explore the local area before you head from Plymouth to Birmingham, you're within easy reach of nearby attractions such as Plymouth Hoe, the scenic waterfront, and the local shops and restaurants.

Main stops

Between Plymouth and Birmingham New Street, CrossCountry trains stop at a number of other stations. You can expect to stop at Totnes, Newton Abbot, Exeter St Davids, Tiverton Parkway, Taunton, Bristol Temple Meads, Bristol Parkway, Cheltenham Spa and Worcestershire Parkway, before arriving at Birmingham New Street.

Arriving at Birmingham New Street

When you arrive at Birmingham New Street Station, you’ll find yourself in the heart of one of the busiest, liveliest and most exciting cities in the UK. The station is modern, offering a wide range of facilities, all of which are designed to create the perfect end to your journey. The Grand Central concourse adds a bright, spacious feel and easy access to a variety of restaurants, bars and high street shops. Whether Birmingham is your end destination or you’re heading elsewhere, arriving at Birmingham New Street is something to look forward to.

As the main station for the city, Birmingham New Street is served by multiple operators, including CrossCountry and West Midlands Trains. With various train companies using the station, there are frequent connections to destinations across the UK. From the station, onward travel is simple, with buses, trams and taxis all right outside.

Highlights nearby include the Bullring Shopping Centre, the historic Jewellery Quarter, and the vibrant canals of Brindleyplace. You’ll be able to step straight into the most exciting aspects of Birmingham as soon as you arrive.

CrossCountry train classes

Standard Class: If you’re travelling from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street and you want to buy cheap train tickets, consider CrossCountry’s Standard Class services. With everything you need for a smooth journey, you can sit back and settle into comfortable seating with generous luggage space. You’ll even find plug sockets and wifi on most trains, so you can stay connected along the way. For the best value, book your tickets early or use a railcard, which can reduce the cost of your ticket by up to a third.
First Class: If you’re interested in making your journey from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street extra special, CrossCountry’s First Class seats could be exactly what you’re looking for. When you choose a Plymouth to Birmingham New Street First Class service, you’ll enjoy wider seats, extra legroom and a quieter environment. Some First Class services also include complimentary snacks and drinks to make your trip that little bit more enjoyable.

CrossCountry train travel advice

We’ve pulled together everything you need to know about CrossCountry services from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street, setting you up for journey success.

Luggage - With limited storage on board, CrossCountry recommends bringing one medium case, rather than large, bulky suitcases. Small bags that can be tucked under your seat or stored overhead are best.
Bicycles - If you’re planning to explore Birmingham by bike, you’ll be pleased to know that you can bring yours along, but spaces are limited. Each train only has a handful of bookable bike slots, so be sure to book ahead.
Children - Kids under 5 travel free on CrossCountry services, though seats aren’t guaranteed. Families with children aged 5 to 15 can buy cheap train tickets with a Family & Friends Railcard, which gives you 33% off adult fares and 60% off children’s fares.
Pets - If you’re heading to Birmingham with your four-legged friend, you can bring them on a CrossCountry service to get there. You can travel with two small pets at no extra cost.
Passenger Assist - If you need extra help at the station or during your journey from Plymouth to Birmingham, CrossCountry is on hand to help. This includes mobility support, help with luggage or guidance for hidden disabilities.

Plymouth to Birmingham New Street train travel guide

Travelling by train from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Plymouth, you can reach Birmingham New Street in just 3h 27m, 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 Plymouth to Birmingham New Street?

The average ticket fare from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street is about €30.39, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.

How do I find the best train route from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street.

What is the fastest train from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street?

The fastest train journey time from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street is 3h 27m. 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 Plymouth to Birmingham New Street?

No, there are no direct trains from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street. 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 Plymouth to Birmingham New Street?

Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.

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

Are Plymouth to Birmingham New Street trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

While Plymouth to Birmingham New Street 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 Plymouth to Birmingham New Street 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?

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 Plymouth to Birmingham New Street trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Plymouth to Birmingham New Street 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?

Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

Can UK train 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 Train Tickets and Off-Peak train 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.

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 Plymouth to Birmingham New Street route?

The route from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street is operated by CrossCountry. 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

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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Plymouth to Birmingham New Street train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

More train routes

Trains from Plymouth	Trains from Birmingham New Street
Plymouth to Exeter	Birmingham New Street to Wolverhampton
Plymouth to Exeter St Davids	Birmingham New Street to London
Plymouth to Birmingham New Street	Birmingham New Street to Manchester Piccadilly
Plymouth to London Paddington	Birmingham New Street to Nottingham
Plymouth to Manchester	Birmingham New Street to Birmingham International

* 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.

Plymouth to Birmingham New Street Trains From €30.39*

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