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  3. Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street

Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street train times and prices

Plan your journey from Watford Junction 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 €11.34
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
1h 17m
Distance
85 miles (137km)
First/last train
00:29 / 23:39
Frequency
47
Train operators

* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.

7-day train ticket price trend

Travelling from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street by train? Find fares from as low as €11.34. 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.
Cheapest

€11.34󰄽

On Mon 9

  • €17.00󰄽
    Sun8Nov
  • Mon9Nov
  • €13.85󰄽
    Tue10Nov
  • €11.34󰄽
    Wed11Nov
  • €24.69󰄽
    Thu12Nov
  • €11.34󰄽
    Fri13Nov
  • €35.39󰄽
    Sat14Nov

Compare train operators from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street

  • LNR & WMR
  • Avanti West Coast
  • CrossCountry
Standard

Standard

Luggage
Luggage
Onboard facilities
Onboard facilities
Bike
Bike
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Essential onboard policies

  • Luggage

    • Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
    • This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
    • Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
    • Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
  • Bicycle

    • Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
    • Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
    • 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.
  • Children

    • Children under 5 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
    • Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
  • Pets

    • Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
    • Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier.
    • Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
  • Passenger assistance

    • Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
    • This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
    • Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
    • To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.

Departing from Watford Junction

Watford Junction
Address

Address:

Station Road, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD17 1EU

Public Transport Links

Public Transport Links:

  • Bus: Multiple local bus routes serve Watford Junction from stops on Station Road directly outside the main entrance, with frequent connections to Watford town centre and surrounding areas.

  • Taxi: There is a licensed taxi rank located outside the main station entrance on Station Road.

  • Car: A Saba-operated station car park is available at Watford Junction, with both short- and long-stay options.

Platforms

Platforms:

12 Platforms with 10 in use, managed by London Northwestern Railway. Watford Junction serves the West Coast Main Line, the Overground Lioness Line to London Euston and the Abbey Line branch to St Albans. Step-free access is available throughout.

TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience

Mark Wilshin
Mark Wilshin
Updated: October 20, 2026

"Watford Junction is the departure point for the official Warner Bros. Studio Tour shuttle bus – it runs regularly from right outside the station and gets you to the Harry Potter studios in around 15 minutes. For dinner before or after your train, St. Albans Road is just a short walk from the station and has an excellent selection of independent restaurants, including Calcutta Crravings for some great Indian food and Nana’s for Lebanese. Or if you fancy a drink, there are a couple of good pubs on Woodford Road, just a short walk from the station."

FAQs about Watford Junction Station

  • Is Watford Junction still in London?

    Watford Junction is on the edge of the capital, around 17 miles from central London. It still lies, however, within the TfL fare zone network and has fast rail connections to London Euston in as little as 23 minutes, making it a popular commuter station.

  • Where do trains from Watford Junction go to?

    Watford Junction is served by London Northwestern Railway and Avanti West Coast, with services to London Euston, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool and Glasgow on the West Coast Main Line. Local services also run to St Albans on the Abbey Line branch and to East Croydon.

  • Can I get the Tube to Watford Junction?

    No Tube line serves Watford Junction directly. The nearest London Underground station is Watford, served by the Metropolitan line, which is a separate station around 10 minutes away by bus or taxi.

  • How do I get a train from Watford Junction to central London?

    The fastest option is a London Northwestern Railway Express service to London Euston, taking as little as 17 minutes. The Overground Lioness line also runs to Euston, and takes up to 53 minutes, stopping at more stations along the way.

Arriving at Birmingham New Street

Birmingham New Street
Address

Address:

Station Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom


Onward Transit Options

Onward Transit Options:

  • Tram: Grand Central is on Line 1 of the West Midlands Metro, running between Edgbaston Village and Wolverhampton St George’s or Wolverhampton.

  • Bus: Local routes stop on Smallbrook Queensway and Station Street in front of the Southside entrance. Destinations include Yardley, Birmingham University and Perry Barr.

  • Taxi pick-up and drop-off: The official taxi rank is located on Navigation Street (accessed via the Stephenson Street exit). Dedicated passenger drop-offs (Drop & Go) take place at the Hill Street entrance.

Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions

Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:

  • Bullring Bull Sculpture (3-min walk)

  • The Alexandra Theatre (4-min walk)

  • Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery (7-min walk)

  • Library of Birmingham (11-min walk)

  • Custard Factory (16-min walk)

Airport Transfers

Airport Transfers:

Frequent direct trains (Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, TfW, and London Northwestern Railway) connect Birmingham New Street to Birmingham International in 10–15 minutes, where a free 2-minute Air-Rail Link takes you straight to the airport terminal. Direct hourly CrossCountry services also run straight to Stansted Airport in around 3 hours and 15 minutes.


TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience

Rosaline Nancy Kargbo
Rosaline Nancy Kargbo
Updated: October 22, 2026

"Navigating Birmingham New Street is easiest via section B on platforms 1-12. Using these stairs or lifts leads straight to the Red Lounge and footbridge concourse, which allows direct transfers between all platforms without passing back through the main ticket barriers. The station layout can be confusing, so checking the colour-coded zone signs (Red, Yellow, and Blue) helps you find exits and connections faster."

FAQs: Birmingham New Street Station

  • Does Birmingham New Street station have a car park?

    There is a short-stay car park at the station, but spaces are limited (38 spaces and four Blue Badge spaces).

  • Is Birmingham New Street step-free?

    Yes, Birmingham New Street station has lifts and ramps to provide step-free access to all platforms and trains.

  • What shops are in Birmingham New Street station?

    Birmingham New Street has a range of convenience and food shops, including WHSmith, Costa, Leon and Boots.

  • Can you leave luggage at Birmingham New Street station?

    Yes, passengers can drop off a bag or suitcase at Birmingham New Street’s left luggage office opposite the entrance to platforms 10A and 11A. The office is open 07:00–23:00 from Monday to Saturday and 08:00–23:00 on Sundays.

  • Where are the toilets in Birmingham New Street station?

    Birmingham New Street has toilets in each zone near the lounges past the ticket barriers. In the Blue Zone, the toilets are near platform 1A. The Green Zone loos are by platform 12A, and the toilets in the Red Zone are near platform 12B. Accessible toilets and baby changing facilities are available.

Avanti West Coast: Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street trains

By Joshua Pearson | Updated May 20, 2026
If you’re heading from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street, Avanti West Coast’s direct trains are the quickest way to go. The 85-mile journey takes just 1 hour and 17 minutes, so you can get from the edge of London to the centre of the Midlands in no time.
As the train leaves Watford, the scenery quickly shifts from suburban London to open stretches of countryside. You’ll pass through towns, rivers and rolling fields, with the occasional glimpse of historic buildings and more industrial backdrops, before pulling into the lively hub of Birmingham.
With frequent departures and only a handful of stops, Avanti West Coast makes the trip simple, reliable and stress-free. It’s a fast and comfortable option, whether you’re travelling for work, a weekend away, or just visiting friends and family.

Departing from Watford Junction

Located in Hertfordshire and slightly outside of London, Watford Junction is where your journey to Birmingham New Street will begin. The station is easily accessible by local buses, taxis and walking routes, and it also connects to the London Underground via Watford Underground station nearby.
Watford Junction serves as a key hub for trains heading to Birmingham, London Euston and Milton Keynes, with services operated by Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains and London Northwestern Railway. The station itself offers a variety of facilities, including lifts, step-free access, accessible toilets, baby changing, seating and waiting areas, refreshments and shops.

Main stops

If you choose Avanti West Coast as your train operator for your Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street journey, you’ll stop at various places along the way. This includes Milton Keynes Central, Rugby, Coventry and Birmingham International.
West Midlands Trains run a longer route, stopping at more stations between Watford and Birmingham. This includes Leighton Buzzard, Bletchley, Milton Keynes Central, Wolverton, Northampton, Long Buckby, Rugby, Coventry, Canley, Tile Hill, Berkswell, Hampton-in-Arden and Birmingham International.

Arriving at Birmingham New Street

Birmingham New Street is the city’s main railway station, located in the heart of Birmingham city centre. The station is a short walk from the shopping districts, restaurants and cultural attractions, and is well connected to local transport including buses, taxis and the West Midlands Metro.
Birmingham New Street is served by multiple operators, including Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry and London Northwestern Railway, providing direct connections to destinations such as London, Manchester, Liverpool and Coventry and further afield.

Avanti West Coast train classes

  • Standard Class: Travelling from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street in Standard Class with Avanti West Coast enables you to buy cheap train tickets. Most services offer onboard wifi, comfortable seating and space for luggage. If you have a railcard, you can reduce your fare by up to a third.
  • Standard Premium: If you’d like a little bit more comfort, Avanti West Coast’s Standard Premium services provide wider seats, additional legroom and a guaranteed table. Window seats are equipped with plug sockets, so you can keep your devices charged while travelling.
  • First Class: Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street First Class offers spacious reclining seats, extra legroom and quieter carriages. Selected services also provide complimentary snacks and drinks, while you’ll benefit from a more relaxed environment to work or unwind.

Avanti West Coast train travel advice

Get ready for your journey from Watford to Birmingham by checking out what Avanti West Coast has to offer:
  • Luggage - You can bring up to three items of luggage with you free of charge, including suitcases, backpacks and laptops.
  • Bicycles - Bikes are allowed on board Watford to Birmingham services at no extra cost, but advance booking is required due to limited spaces.
  • Children - Children under 5 travel for free with a paying adult, and those aged 5 to 15 can take advantage of reduced fares. Using a 16-17 Railcard is also an option for young people, providing additional savings of up to a third.
  • Pets - You can travel with up to two small pets, such as dogs or cats, for free when safely secured on a lead or in a carrier.
  • Passenger Assist - Avanti West Coast offers an impressive range of support for passengers with accessibility needs. Pre-booking is recommended, though not mandatory.

West Midlands Trains: Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street trains

West Midlands Trains offers a slightly longer route between Watford Junction and Birmingham New Street. Taking 2 hours and 6 minutes, the service is reliable and frequent, stopping at various towns between the two.
The views offer a mix of city backdrops and beautiful scenery, before arriving in the heart of Birmingham.

West Midlands Trains train classes

  • Standard Class: Getting the train from Watford to Birmingham with West Midlands Trains is a straightforward and affordable journey, even in Standard Class. You can enjoy spacious, comfortable seating and free wifi on many services. Booking in advance and using a railcard helps to keep travel costs low.
  • First Class: There are no Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street First Class services with West Midlands Trains. All passengers travel in Standard Class, which is designed to provide a comfortable and reliable service for everyone.

West Midlands Trains train travel advice

Here’s what you can expect when you choose West Midlands Trains to take you from Watford to Birmingham:
  • Luggage - You can bring up to three items of luggage free of charge on West Midlands Trains services. Space is provided for larger suitcases and bags, but it’s recommended that you travel light.
  • Bicycles - Bikes are welcome on board West Midlands Trains services without prior reservation, though space is limited and allocated on a first come, first served basis.
  • Children - Children under 5 travel for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Kids aged 5 to 15 are eligible for 50% off most fares, and 16 to 17 year olds can take advantage of the 16-17 Railcard to reduce ticket costs.
  • Pets - Take two small pets on West Midlands Trains for free. Dogs should be kept on a lead, while smaller animals need to be kept in a carrier.
  • Passenger Assist - West Midlands Trains offers pre-bookable support for passengers who need extra help, including assistance with boarding, luggage and changing trains.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Delay Repay & Refund Policies from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street

Avanti West Coast

Apply for Avanti West Coast Delay Repay

If your Avanti West Coast train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:

  • 15-29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket, 12.5% of a return ticket and 25% of a Season ticket.

  • 30-59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket or 50% of a season ticket.

  • 60-119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket or 100% of a season ticket.

  • 120 minutes or more: 100% of a single, return or Season ticket (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).

Apply for Avanti West Coast Delay Repay
CrossCountry

Apply for CrossCountry Delay Repay

CrossCountry calculates Delay Repay compensation according to how late you arrive at your final destination, regardless of the cause of the delay. It operates under Delay Repay 30, so delays of less than 30 minutes are not eligible.

  • 30 to 59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket, or 50% of the journey cost of a Season Ticket

  • 60 to 119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket, or 100% of the journey cost of a Season Ticket

  • 120 minutes or more: 100% of the total ticket cost, whether single, return or Season Ticket

Apply for CrossCountry Delay Repay

FAQ

  • How much is a train from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street?

    Tickets from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street typically cost €52.08, but can be as cheap as €11.34 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.

  • How long is the train from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street?

    The journey should take, on average, 2h 7m, though it can be as quick as 1h 17m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.

  • Is there a direct train from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street?

    There is no direct service between Watford Junction and Birmingham New Street. Instead, when browsing routes, you will see our recommendations for changeover stations that are the most convenient and time-efficient.

  • How far in advance can I book my train from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street?

    You can typically book tickets from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street up to 12 weeks before departure.

  • Do Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street trains offer Wi-Fi?

    Yes, most trains on the route from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train compan.

  • How far is Watford Junction from Birmingham New Street?

    The distance between Watford Junction and Birmingham New Street is approximately 85 miles (137km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.

  • How frequent are trains from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street?

    There is 47 train running from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.

  • How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Watford Junction to Birmingham New Street?

    To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!

  • How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?

    Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.

  • Can my 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 and Off-Peak 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.

* 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.