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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Birmingham
Showing times and prices for 05 Dec
Cheapest price
$42
Average price
$96
Fastest journey
2 h
Average duration
2 h 2 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
142 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Birmingham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Birmingham will cost around $96 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $42.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Cardiff for Birmingham every day 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 142 km distance in an average of 2 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h .
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.
C2336608:45AM2h00
Cardiff Central (CDF)10:45AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$421One-way
0 changes
C23399_C2366109:45AM2h04
Cardiff Central (CDF)11:49AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$561One-way
0 changes
P08481+C2338910:18AM2h01
Cardiff Central (CDF)12:19PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$1171One-way
1 change
P08480+C2366109:49AM2h06
Cardiff Central (CDF)11:55AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$1171One-way
1 change
P08477+C2337808:18AM2h06
Cardiff Central (CDF)10:24AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$1221One-way
1 change
C2336608:45AM2h00
Cardiff Central (CDF)10:45AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$421One-way
0 changes
P08479+C2338409:19AM2h00
Cardiff Central (CDF)11:19AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$1221One-way
1 change
P08481+C2338910:18AM2h01
Cardiff Central (CDF)12:19PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$1171One-way
1 change
C23399_C2366109:45AM2h04
Cardiff Central (CDF)11:49AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$561One-way
0 changes
P08480+C2366109:49AM2h06
Cardiff Central (CDF)11:55AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$1171One-way
1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Birmingham
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 23m. 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 $12, and a train costs an average of $23.
Distance: 142 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach |
|---|---|
$73 Average Price | $18 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 53m Average total duration Fastest 2h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 54m Average total duration 3h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cardiff to Birmingham train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Birmingham trains for tomorrow, Friday, 5 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 11:47 pm
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P08477+C23378 | On time 8:18 am Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h06 | 10:24 am Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1 change | |
| C23366 | On time 8:45 am Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h00 | 10:45 am Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P08479+C23384 | On time 9:19 am Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h00 | 11:19 am Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1 change | |
| C23399_C23661 | 9:45 am Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h04 | 11:49 am Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 0 changesdirect | |
| P08480+C23661 | On time 9:49 am Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h06 | 11:55 am Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1 change | |
| P08481+C23389 | On time 10:18 am Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2h01 | 12:19 pm Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Birmingham 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.
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Birmingham?
The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Birmingham is 3 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Birmingham route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Birmingham 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 Cardiff to Birmingham.
Trains
from $54Coaches
from $11Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Birmingham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Birmingham run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 but you can travel from only $12 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:34, the last at 22:12. The fastest train covers the 142 km distance in 1h 55m.
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 $12
Distance 142 km |
Average train duration 2h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 1h 55m |
First train 04:34 |
Last train 22:12 |
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 $12
Train companies: CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, Great Western Rail, Cross Country, first_great_western from Cardiff to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales, Great Western Rail, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Birmingham from $12. 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 55m
Cheapest Price
$23
CrossCountry frequency
7 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
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
2h 53m
Cheapest Price
$62
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 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
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$67
Transport for Wales frequency
2 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
Great Western Rail
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 48m
Cheapest Price
$44
Great Western Rail frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 0m
Cheapest Price
$158
Cross Country frequency
9 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 55m
Cheapest Price
$170
first_great_western frequency
15 a day
FAQs: Cardiff to Birmingham train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Cardiff to Birmingham can start from as little as $25 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cardiff to Birmingham is $75; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The train time between Cardiff and Birmingham is on average 1 h 57 min for the 141 km long journey, but the time it takes to go to Birmingham from Cardiff by train can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Cardiff to Birmingham leaves at 3: 54am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last train from Cardiff to Birmingham leaves at 10: 12pm.
There are 6 trains a day from Cardiff to Birmingham which require at least one change with CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales or first_great_western. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
For the trip from Cardiff to Birmingham you can take a train with CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales or first_great_western. Be sure to check out all possible train companies that offer services from Cardiff to Birmingham on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
Passengers board the train most frequently from Cardiff Central, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Birmingham New Street, located away from the city centre.
A day trip to Birmingham from Cardiff is worth doing with a journey time of 1 h 57 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Cardiff to Birmingham is September.
You have options as you can travel from Cardiff to Birmingham 2 different ways: train or coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Birmingham
Cardiff
Birmingham
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Birchgrove. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birchgrove for your trip from Cardiff to Birmingham.
Birchgrove
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. Step free access is available from Waun y Groes Avenue.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transport options for Birchgrove
- Onward travel information: Available from Caerphilly Road (main road next to station)
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on A469 Caerphilly Road
Cardiff Bay
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Bay
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
Cathays
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
The major train station for arrivals in Birmingham is Acocks Green. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Acocks Green for your journey to Birmingham from Cardiff.
Acocks Green
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 07:00 - 16:00 Friday 07:00 - 18:00 Saturday 08:00 - 16:00 Sunday Closed None
Distance to city center
6 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
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 no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: On platform
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transport options for Acocks Green
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from: The public service bus stop outside station entrance.
Adderley Park
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday Closed Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 07:00 - 12:00 Friday 07:00 - 10:00 Saturday 12:00 - 14:00 Sunday 09:00 - 14:00
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transport options for Adderley Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from: Bordesley Green Road - Outside booking hall entrance.
Aston
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLoungeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday 07:00 - 10:3012:00 - 18:00 Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday 07:00 - 11:0012:00 - 18:00 Friday 07:00 - 11:0015:00 - 18:00 Saturday 11:00 - 15:00 Sunday Closed None
Distance to city center
3 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
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 Aston
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from: Lichfield Road - under railway bridge at public service bus stop near to bottom of stairs for Platform 1 Walsall bound platform
Most popular trains to and from Birmingham and Cardiff
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