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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 £24.80. 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 timetable

The journey from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street on the fastest train in 3h 27m, usually 3h 28m. Each day, 16 trains leave from Plymouth, starting at 05:25 and ending at 20:08. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

05:25

Plymouth
3h 30m, Direct

08:55

Birmingham New Street
CrossCountry
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06:20

Plymouth
3h 34m, Direct

09:54

Birmingham New Street
CrossCountry
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07:27

Plymouth
3h 28m, Direct

10:55

Birmingham New Street
CrossCountry
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08:27

Plymouth
3h 28m, Direct

11:55

Birmingham New Street
CrossCountry
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09:27

Plymouth
3h 28m, Direct

12:55

Birmingham New Street
CrossCountry
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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 £24.80
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
174 miles (281km)
Journey time
3h 27m
First train
05:25
Last train
20:08
Frequency
16

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

Taking the train from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Plymouth, you can arrive at Birmingham New Street in just 3h 27m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street?

The average fare from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street is approximately £24.80, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.

What is the best way to travel from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street by train?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Plymouth to Birmingham New Street 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!

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, you will need to transfer when travelling from Plymouth to Birmingham New Street. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.

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?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

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

Plymouth to Birmingham New Street 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?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.

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

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

Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.

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

Other things you might be interested

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.

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?

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 Plymouth to Birmingham New Street route?

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

  • Luggage

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.

  • Bicycle

    You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.

  • 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.

  • 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.

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

Your train was disrupted?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.