- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Cambridge
Showing times and prices for Jul 16
Cheapest price
$30
Average price
$92
Fastest journey
2 h 40 m
Average duration
2 h 41 m
Trains per day
29
Distance
141 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Cambridge will cost around $92 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.
Fast trains
Of the 29 trains that leave Birmingham for Cambridge on Thu, Jul 16, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 16 the direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 2 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 40 m .
On Thu, Jul 16 the slowest trains will take 2 h 42 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.
G0081412:20 PM2h43Birmingham New Street (BHM)3:03 PMCambridge station (CBG)$301One-way0 transfers- G0081211:22 AM2h41Birmingham New Street (BHM)2:03 PMCambridge station (CBG)$301One-way0 transfers
- G0080810:22 AM2h41Birmingham New Street (BHM)1:03 PMCambridge station (CBG)$301One-way0 transfers
- G008212:22 PM2h47Birmingham New Street (BHM)5:09 PMCambridge station (CBG)$301One-way0 transfers
- G008181:22 PM2h41Birmingham New Street (BHM)4:03 PMCambridge station (CBG)$301One-way0 transfers
- G008069:22 AM2h40Birmingham New Street (BHM)12:02 PMCambridge station (CBG)$341One-way0 transfers
- G0081211:22 AM2h41Birmingham New Street (BHM)2:03 PMCambridge station (CBG)$301One-way0 transfers
- G0080810:22 AM2h41Birmingham New Street (BHM)1:03 PMCambridge station (CBG)$301One-way0 transfers
- G008181:22 PM2h41Birmingham New Street (BHM)4:03 PMCambridge station (CBG)$301One-way0 transfers
- G008418:21 AM2h42Birmingham New Street (BHM)11:03 AMCambridge station (CBG)$341One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Birmingham to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 55m. 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 bus costs an average of $9, and a train costs an average of $23.
Distance: 87 miles (141 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$46 Average price | $25 Average price Cheapest | $48 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 47m Average total duration 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 54m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Birmingham to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $25 (€20).
This is compared to other travel options from Birmingham to Cambridge:
A bus is $21 (€17) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Birmingham to Cambridge costing on average $46 (€37).
The fastest way to travel from Birmingham to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 17m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham and Cambridge including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Cambridge among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around {cheapestPrice} compared to roughly {drivingPriceInCents} in fuel and tolls — a saving of about {savingsAmount}. The journey takes {durationInMinutes} versus {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Birmingham to Cambridge train times
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Cambridge trains for today, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 W34019+ Tube from London Euston to Finsbury Park+ W45437 | On time 6:05 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 3h00 | 9:05 AM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
G00803+ P01156 | On time 6:22 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h53 | 9:15 AM Cambridge North (CMB) | 1 transfer | |
| G00803 | On time 6:22 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h47 | 9:09 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34262+Tube from London Euston to Finsbury Park+W45490 | On time 6:28 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 3h07 | 9:35 AM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
| W34257+Tube from London Euston to Tottenham Hale+P76261 | On time 6:47 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 3h15 | 10:02 AM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
W34257+Tube from London Euston to London Kings Cross+ C93346 | On time 6:47 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h52 | 9:39 AM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
| G00841 | On time 8:21 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h42 | 11:03 AM Cambridge station (CBG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G00841+C93372 | On time 8:21 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 3h10 | 11:31 AM Cambridge North (CMB) | 1 transfer | |
| W33891+Tube from London Euston to London Kings Cross+C93366 | On time 8:47 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h52 | 11:39 AM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
| W33891+Tube from London Euston to Finsbury Park+C10182 | On time 8:47 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 3h12 | 11:59 AM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
| G00806 | On time 9:22 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h40 | 12:02 PM Cambridge station (CBG) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G00806+G77000 | On time 9:22 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 3h09 | 12:31 PM Cambridge North (CMB) | 1 transfer | |
| W33940+Tube from London Euston to London Kings Cross+C93376 | On time 9:47 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h52 | 12:39 PM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
| W34271+Tube from London Euston to London Kings Cross+G76998 | On time 10:17 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h52 | 1:09 PM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Birmingham to Cambridge by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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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Why should you book Birmingham to Cambridge trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, Cross Country, West Midlands Trains and more offer trains services from Birmingham to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, Cross Country or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Cambridge.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, Cross Country or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Cambridge.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Cambridge.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Birmingham to Cambridge?
The best time to book your train from Birmingham to Cambridge is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Birmingham to Cambridge route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Birmingham to Cambridge 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 Cambridge.
Trains
from $65Buses
from $10Journey information
Overview: Train from Birmingham to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Birmingham to Cambridge run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $9 (€8) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:38, the last at 23:22. The fastest train covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 2h 40m.
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
Bus from $9 (€8)
Distance 87 miles (141 km) |
Average train duration 2h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€19) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 40m |
First train 4:38 AM |
Last train 11:22 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 days |
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
Bus from $9 (€8)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, Cross Country, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales from Birmingham to Cambridge trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, Cross Country, West Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Birmingham and Cambridge from $9 (€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
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
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
2h 56m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
Avanti West Coast frequency
11 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
Chiltern Railways
About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom which is owned by Arriva Trains and has operated since 1996. Check the different ticket types for your next #[+travelMode] #[+journey]: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. syn p Chiltern Railways is a train company based in the United Kingdom with trains #[+journey]. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 24m
Cheapest Price
$108 (€88)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
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
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 39m
Cheapest Price
$158 (€130)
Cross Country frequency
9 a day
West Midlands Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 37m
West Midlands Trains frequency
3 a day
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 34m
Cheapest Price
$189 (€155)
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Recommended
Scott Polar Research Institute Museum
Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.
- Must visit
The Backs
The city's most famous riverside walking area, lined with college gardens and views. Classic place for strolling, punting and photography.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic central square with market stalls, buskers and everyday city life. A practical and lively base for sightseeing and shopping.
- Recommended
Jesus Green
Leafy riverside common ideal for walking, picnics and broad views of the college skyline. Popular with locals and visitors year-round.
- Vegetarian
Cambridge Burnt Cream
A creamy dessert of whipped cream, meringue and raspberry coulis, created at Cambridge’s Trinity College and named after the River Cam.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Trinity Cream
The Cambridge version of crème brûlée, linked to Trinity College. It has a rich custard base with a hard caramelised sugar top.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cambridgeshire Asparagus
Tender local asparagus from the Cambridgeshire fens, prized in spring for its sweetness and freshness, often served simply with butter or eggs.
Midsummer House
Elegant riverside fine dining restaurant known for refined British tasting menus and polished service in a historic setting.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
Historic city-centre restaurant serving modern British cooking with seasonal ingredients in a smart, intimate atmosphere.
The Eagle
Well-known Cambridge pub and dining room offering classic British dishes, cask ales and a lively, traditional atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city center
Cambridge Railway Station -> Cambridge City Centre
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless bank cards are accepted on Stagecoach buses in Cambridge; ask the driver for the best fare if unsure.
- Cambridge has no tram or metro. Most local public transport is by bus, and fares can vary by operator and route.
FAQs: Trains from Birmingham to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $46 (€37).
The train from Birmingham to Cambridge takes 2h 40m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Cambridge is 87 miles (141 km).
The first train from Birmingham to Cambridge leaves at 4:38 AM.
The last train from Birmingham to Cambridge leaves at 11:22 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Birmingham to Cambridge.
Yes, there is a direct train from Birmingham to Cambridge. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Birmingham to Cambridge.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Cambridge is Birmingham New Street (BHM), which connects to Cambridge station (CBG).
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Cambridge is by bus, with a cost of around $9 (€8).
The train journey from Birmingham to Cambridge offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of rolling countryside, quaint villages, and historic towns, providing a pleasant and scenic experience for travelers.
A day trip from Birmingham to Cambridge is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 40m. However, there are 5 trains per day. The distance is 87 miles (141 km).
In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square, or attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Discover the city's rich history on a guided walking tour. Don't miss the stunning King's College Chapel, the art-filled Fitzwilliam Museum, the picturesque Backs, the historic Trinity College, and the tranquil Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
For a fulfilling experience in Cambridge, spending two to three days is ideal to explore its historic colleges, museums, and the picturesque River Cam.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Cambridge.
Since neither Birmingham nor Cambridge are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Cambridge among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
Most popular train connections from Birmingham
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cambridge and Birmingham
Most popular train connections to Cambridge
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