Birmingham to Cambridge train with CrossCountry

Thu, Jan 15
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
West Midlands Trains
Cross Country
1,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
West Midlands Trains
Cross Country
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 Cambridge

Showing times and prices for Jan 15

Cheapest price

$39

Average price

$48

Fastest journey

2 h 43 m

Average duration

2 h 46 m

Trains per day

5

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 $48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $39.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Birmingham for Cambridge on Thu, Jan 15, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jan 15 the direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 2 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 43 m .

On Thu, Jan 15 the slowest trains will take 2 h 49 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.

CrossCountry
02:22PM2h52
Birmingham
05:14PMCambridge
$391One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
07:22PM2h48
Birmingham
10:10PMCambridge
$401One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
04:19AM2h49
Birmingham
07:08AMCambridge
$461One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
09:22AM2h43
Birmingham
12:05PMCambridge
$581One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
05:22AM2h48
Birmingham
08:10AMCambridge
$591One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus 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 €12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 54m. 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 €12, and a train costs an average of €28.

Distance: 87 miles (141 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus

€52

Average price

€22

Average price

Cheapest

3h 24m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 40m

Average total duration

3h 10m

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 Cambridge train times

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

Last updated at 8:19 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
cross_country9:22 AM Birmingham
2h43
12:05 PM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
cross_country1:22 PM Birmingham
2h48
4:10 PM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
chiltern_railways8:15 PM Birmingham
4h29
12:44 AM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
Thursday, January 15
cross_country4:19 AM Birmingham
2h49
7:08 AM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
cross_country5:22 AM Birmingham
2h48
8:10 AM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
avanti_west_coast7:47 AM Birmingham
2h43
10:30 AM Cambridge0 transfersDirect

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 train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Thu
Jan 15
Fri
Jan 16
Sat
Jan 17
Sun
Jan 18
Mon
Jan 19
Tue
Jan 20
Wed
Jan 21

Why should you book Birmingham to Cambridge trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways and West Midlands Trains 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 and 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While CrossCountry tickets can be bought on CrossCountry's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways and West Midlands Trains to help you choose the right option for your journey from Birmingham to Cambridge.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Birmingham to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Birmingham to Cambridge run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $35 (€28) but you can travel from only $15 (€12) by bus.

There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 23:22. The fastest train covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 2h 43m.

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 $15 (€12)
Distance
87 miles (141 km)
Average train duration
2h 54m
Cheapest ticket price
$35 (€28)
Trains per day
5
Direct trains
1
Fastest train
2h 43m
First train
04:08
Last train
23:22
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 $15 (€12)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country from Birmingham to Cambridge trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Birmingham and Cambridge from $15 (€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
2h 43m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
CrossCountry frequency
2 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
2h 43m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€59)
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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
3h 46m
Cheapest Price
$111 (€89)
Chiltern Railways frequency
2 a day
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

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
3h 54m
Cheapest Price
$114 (€92)
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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
$158 (€127)
Cross Country frequency
13 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $35 (€28), while the average price is around $64 (€52).
The train from Birmingham to Cambridge takes 2h 43m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Cambridge is 87 miles (141 km).
The first train from Birmingham to Cambridge leaves at 4:08 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 1 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 $15 (€12).
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 43m. 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Birmingham to Cambridge

Birmingham
Cambridge
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 Cambridge.
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 transit 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.
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 transit 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.
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 transit 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.

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