Birmingham to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Wed, 14 Jan
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
Transport for Wales
Northern Rail (3)
1,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
Transport for Wales
Northern Rail (3)
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Manchester

Showing times and prices for 15 Jan

Cheapest price

$30

Average price

$50

Fastest journey

1 h 28 m

Average duration

1 h 38 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

113 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Birmingham to Manchester will cost around $50 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $30.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Birmingham for Manchester every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 113 km distance in an average of 1 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 28 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 6 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

West Midlands TrainsW05234+Northern Rail (3)L08926
08:34AM2h06
Birmingham New Street (BHM)
10:40AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
$301One-way
1 change
CrossCountryC72297
09:01AM1h28
Birmingham New Street (BHM)
10:29AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
$361One-way
0 changes
Avanti West CoastW02933+Transport for WalesL64787
08:07AM2h06
Birmingham New Street (BHM)
10:13AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
$461One-way
1 change
CrossCountryC74899
08:30AM1h29
Birmingham New Street (BHM)
09:59AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
$501One-way
0 changes
CrossCountryC72293
08:01AM1h28
Birmingham New Street (BHM)
09:29AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
$501One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Birmingham to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of $8, and a train costs an average of $21.

Distance: 113 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach

$46

Average Price

$15

Average Price

Cheapest

2h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 45m

Average total duration

2h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Birmingham to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Manchester trains for today, Wednesday, 14 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 8:05 am
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
avanti_west_coastW02933 · W02543
On time
8:07 am Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1h37
9:44 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 change
cross_countryC74899
On time
8:30 am Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1h29
9:59 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
cross_countryC72297
On time
9:01 am Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1h28
10:29 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
avanti_west_coastL02369 · W02541
On time
9:07 am Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1h37
10:44 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 change
cross_countryC74901
On time
9:30 am Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1h29
10:59 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect
cross_countryC72293
On time
8:01 am Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1h28
9:29 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Birmingham to Manchester by train or coach

Compare train and coach prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Wed
14 Jan
Thu
15 Jan
Fri
16 Jan
Sat
17 Jan
Sun
18 Jan
Mon
19 Jan
Tue
20 Jan
Wed
21 Jan
Thu
22 Jan
Fri
23 Jan
Sat
24 Jan
Sun
25 Jan
Mon
26 Jan
Tue
27 Jan
Wed
28 Jan
Thu
29 Jan
Fri
30 Jan
Sat
31 Jan
Sun
01 Feb
Mon
02 Feb
Tue
03 Feb

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Birmingham to Manchester?

The best time to book your train from Birmingham to Manchester is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Birmingham to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Birmingham to Manchester per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Birmingham to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Birmingham to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Birmingham to Manchester run on average 28 times per day, taking around 1h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 but you can travel from only $8 by coach.

There are 17 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:58, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 113 km distance in 1h 25m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from $8
Distance
113 km
Average train duration
1h 56m
Cheapest ticket price
$21
Trains per day
28
Direct trains
17
Fastest train
1h 25m
First train
01:58
Last train
23:28
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from $8

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail (3), Cross Country from Birmingham to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail (3), Cross Country trains will get you between Birmingham and Manchester from $8. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 25m
Cheapest Price
$14
CrossCountry frequency
20 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 48m
Cheapest Price
$26
Avanti West Coast frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 40m
Cheapest Price
$23
West Midlands Trains frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
$35
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Northern Rail (3)

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$29
Northern Rail (3) frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 28m
Cheapest Price
$124
Cross Country frequency
15 a day

FAQs: Birmingham to Manchester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Manchester by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Birmingham to Manchester can start from as little as $16 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Birmingham to Manchester is $41; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Birmingham to Manchester is 1 h 28 min   to travel the 113 km long journey, with around there are 24 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Birmingham to Manchester leaves at 1: 31am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Birmingham to Manchester leaves at 11: 25pm.
Yes, there are 15 direct trains a day from Birmingham to Manchester with CrossCountry. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
For the best Birmingham to Manchester train to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales or Northern Rail (3). However, it's always good to check all possible train companies with services to Manchester from Birmingham to compare what amenities they may offer.

Passengers board the train most frequently from Birmingham New Street, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Manchester Piccadilly, located away from the city centre.

A day trip to Manchester from Birmingham is worth doing with a journey time of 1 h 28 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Birmingham to Manchester is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Birmingham to Manchester including taking a train or coach.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Birmingham and Manchester

Birmingham
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Birmingham is Birmingham New Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birmingham New Street for your trip from Birmingham to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00
  • Sun: 07:30 - 23:00
Wifi
Wifi
  • Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud.
Lockers
Lockers
  • You can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: Boots located on the main concourse, before the ticket barrier Camden Food located beyond the ticket barrier Costa located beyond the ticket barrier next to Platform 5b escalator Funky Pigeon located beyond the ticket barrier between Platform escalators 9-10 M&S Food located on the main concourse Mi Casa Burritos located beyond the ticket barrier next to Platform 9 escalator The Pasty Shop located beyond the ticket barrier next to Platform 7 escalator W H Smith located on the main concourse, before the ticket barrier
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Short Stay Car Park
Dining
Dining
  • All Bar One
  • Leon
  • Caffè Nero
  • Five Guys
  • Krispy Kreme
  • The Pasty Shop
  • Upper Crust
  • Wasabi
  • Starbucks
  • Hotel Chocolat
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Taxis drop off with the 'drop & go' in the Hill Street entrance. The taxi rank is on Navigation Street (Stephenson Street / Victoria Square exit). For more information visit Traintaxi
  • Accessible taxis: Taxis drop off within the 'drop & go' off the Hill Street entrance. The taxi rank is on Navigation Street (Stephenson Street / Victoria Square exit). All taxis are accessible with manual wheelchairs, most are accessible with electric wheelchairs. For more information visit Traintaxi
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Male, Female, Accessible and Baby Change facilities are available in all parts of the station. These are located between: Platforms 2 - 3a (Blue Lounge) Platforms 10 - 11a (Yellow Lounge) Platforms 10 - 11b (Red Lounge)
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: Close to Platforms 1A and 12A and Platforms 10 and 11B
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets,Male toilets
Hotel
Hotel
  • Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center
  • Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station)
  • Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: There are two large seating areas beyond the ticket barrier between the escalators to platforms 5b and 8b. All platforms have waiting areas with seating
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00
  • Sun: 07:30 - 23:00
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • In the middle of the station.
Public transport options for Birmingham New Street
  • Bus lines: N5, N6, N8, 4, 9, 23, 45, 50, 61, X51, X70
  • Train lines: West Midlands, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales
  • Onward travel information: There are nearby bus stops on Smallbrook Queensway and Hill Street Most buses are wheelchair accessible. ********************************************************************************************************** For information go to the local travel information office by the Stephenson Street entrance. Alternatively, visit Transport for West Midlands, or call 0121 214 7214.
Birmingham Snow HillShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
Amenities at train station
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 06:00 - 21:00 Friday 06:00 - 23:00 Saturday 07:00 - 23:00 Sunday 08:00 - 20:00 None
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Birmingham Snow Hill (Council Managed)
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: A Ticket Vending Machine is available on the station concourse, by the Ticket Office.
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The Ladies toilets are located in the Waiting Room on Platform 3 and also on Platform 2. The Gents toilets are located on Platform 2 and Platform 3. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1 and 3; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. The RADAR key is available from station staff upon request. The toilet facilities are only available from the first to last service.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transport options for Birmingham Snow Hill
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from: Bus Stop SH4, at the front of the station on Colmore Row.
Birmingham Moor StreetWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 00:10 Saturday 05:55 - 23:55 Sunday 08:40 - 00:10
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: Newsagent, Flower stall
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to all platforms.
  • Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
WC
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Waiting rooms are located on Platform 1 and between platforms 3 & 4.
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Between Platforms 2 and 3 at the south end of the station.
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Birmingham Moor Street
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: This station is not usually served by rail replacement buses, due to difficult road access. Replacement buses stop at Birmingham Snow Hill station.

More options for your journey from Birmingham to Manchester

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular train connections to Manchester

HomeTrainsBirmingham to Manchester train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone