Trains to Birmingham
Birmingham is one of Britain's finest examples of a cosmopolitan, modern, vibrant city. Recent redevelopment has solidified its position as a cultural and economic hub. Birmingham is a popular place to visit for entertainment, restaurants, museums and art galleries.
How to find cheap train tickets to Birmingham
There are a number of ways in which you can find cheap train tickets to Birmingham to help you save money and explore the city. Whether you are getting a train to Birmingham for work or leisure, our Journey Planner can help you find the cheapest available tickets on the days you want to travel.
Our top tips for finding cheap train tickets to Birmingham:
- Get a Railcard: Save up to 1/3 for a whole year
- Book tickets to Birmingham in advance: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains and Transport for Wales usually release tickets 12 weeks in advance
- Travel Off-Peak: Tickets are usually cheaper during quieter times on weekdays and weekends
- Use GroupSave: If you're travelling in a group of 3-9 people you could save 34%
1. Get a Railcard
The first way you can get your hands on cheaper train tickets to Birmingham is by using a national Railcard. If you travel more than a few times a year, buying an eligible Railcard can allow you to save up to 1/3 off the price of your train tickets*, meaning you can spend more on things to see and do in the city. To see the different types of Railcards, eligibility requirements and to buy one online, check out our Railcards page. Railcards cater to different age ranges and circumstances so, from the Senior Railcard, to the Disabled Persons Railcard and the newly-introduced 26-30 Railcard (Millennial Railcard), you'll be sure to find your match.
2. Book tickets to Birmingham in advance
Another way to save money on train tickets to Birmingham is by purchasing an Advance ticket. In most cases, the earlier you book Advance tickets, the more you will benefit from cheap fares to Birmingham. Advance tickets typically go on sale 12 weeks in advance, so if you are off to hit the shops or have a night out with friends pencilled in the calendar, simply look out for the “Advance ticket” type when you search for tickets using our Journey Planner, or sign up to our Ticket alert to find out as soon as your tickets go on sale. Make sure you book these tickets as early as possible, because the longer you wait, the more the price can go up.
3. Travel during Off-Peak times
If you have some flexibility about when you want to travel, taking the train to Birmingham during Off-Peak periods can be cheaper than travel during Peak times (Monday to Friday rush hours). Another money-saving idea? Try buying Return train tickets instead of two singles as well.
4. Travelling as a group? Use GroupSave
Catch the train as a group of between three and nine people and cash in on a GroupSave discount of up to 34% off your tickets. To find out more, visit our types of train tickets page and see useful ways to get the best value train fares.
Want even more handy hints on how to save money on train tickets? Check out our cheap train tickets page.
*Conditions and peak travel time exclusions may apply on some Railcard types.
London to Birmingham on the West Coast Main Line
Trains from London to Birmingham are operated by Avanti West Coast. Services to Birmingham run along the West Coast Main Line (WCML) – one of the primary railway lines in the UK, connecting London to the West Midlands, North West and Glasgow.
The fastest trains from London to Birmingham take just 1h 22m to reach Birmingham New Street – Birmingham’s central station. Departing from London Euston, you’ll travel on a Class 390 Pendolino train. Standard Class is quiet and comfortable, while First Class is extra spacious. There are plug sockets for every seat in First Class. There is free WiFi for all passengers on board. Avanti's Super Voyager trains also run on routes to Birmingham, so you may find yourself boarding one of these instead of a Pendolino. While they're a bit noisier, Voyagers are still perfectly comfortable - Avanti has even begun the process of renovating the interior of their Voyager fleet.
How to find cheap tickets from London to Birmingham
The cheapest way to travel to Birmingham is with a Super Off-Peak Advance Single ticket. Prices vary from ticket to ticket, but the most heavily discounted fares are generally available between 11:00 and 15:00. Prices tend to go up during commuter hours – so if you can spare the time to travel in the middle of the day, you’ll save a few pennies. There is also a cheaper – but slower – service to Birmingham, operated by Chiltern Railways. This departs from Marylebone and arrives at Birmingham Moor Street, which is also centrally located.
Railcards can also save you a third on trains to Birmingham from London. You can buy a digital Railcard online with us and it'll live in your Trainline app – so you can do away with those easily-forgettable paper Railcards.
Visiting Birmingham
The Birmingham NEC is a world-renowned arena that showcases the best events and acts throughout the year; check out their website to find out what's on.
For both adults and children alike, Cadbury World has provided a fun and delicious day out for over 25 years. By purchasing your tickets online before you travel, you could save 5% on the entrance fee. Take the tour and enjoy finding out more about the world-famous chocolate.
Since 1996 The National Sealife Aquarium in Birmingham has provided a fantastic sight for all ocean lovers. With over 60 different displays, this aquarium will keep the whole family entertained for a whole day; book online in advance to save up to 40% on the price of admission.
Birmingham is steeped in history and nowhere portrays this better than the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Alongside the stunning array of artefacts, the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery also hold exciting events throughout the year.
No trip to Birmingham would be complete without a gaze at, and a wander through, the Bullring Shopping Centre. Located near the Chinese Quarter, this mammoth retail heaven provides visitors with an array of clothing outlets, electronic stores and restaurants.
Planning a day trip from Birmingham? Check out our dedicated guide to 8 of the best day trips from Birmingham.
Frequently asked questions
What's the main train station in Birmingham?
The main train station in Birmingham is New Street station, located in the city centre. Depending on where you’re travelling from, you’re likely to arrive into New Street station or Moor Street or Snow Hill – the other stations in the city.
Which train companies run trains to Birmingham?
There are a number of trains companies in the UK that operate trains to Birmingham, including West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Transport for Wales and Avanti West Coast.
How can I get cheap train tickets to Birmingham?
It’s easy to grab yourself cheap train tickets to Birmingham. We’d recommend using a Railcard, buying your ticket in advance or travelling during Off-Peak hours if you can. Read our cheap train tickets guide to find out more.
Are trains running to Birmingham?
Trains run frequently almost every day to Birmingham, although there may be less services during the weekends and bank holidays. Check our live train times for up-to-date information on trains to Birmingham.
Can I use my Railcard to save up to 1/3 on my trip to Birmingham?
Yes, there are several types of Railcards you can use to save up to 1/3 on your trip to Birmingham, these include:
- Two-Together Railcard (Great for couples and friends who always travel together)
- 16-17 Saver (You can save up to 50% with this one)
- 16-25 Railcard (Ideal for students)
- 26-30 Railcard (Also known as the Millennial Railcard)
- Senior Railcard (For those aged 60 and over)
- Friends & Family Railcard (Great for families of up to 4 adults with up to 4 kids)
- Disabled Railcard (If travelling with another adult they can save too)
Having a Railcard means you can use it whenever you want outside of Peak times for a whole year too.