Birmingham to Canterbury train with Chiltern Railways

Wed, Aug 05
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Chiltern Railways
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Chiltern Railways
Avanti West Coast
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Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Canterbury

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$91

Average price

$109

Fastest journey

3 h 13 m

Average duration

3 h 27 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

244 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Birmingham to Canterbury will cost around $109 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $91.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Birmingham for Canterbury on Wed, Aug 05, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 244 km distance in an average of 3 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 13 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 3 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.

  • Avanti West Coast
    10:21 AM3h13
    Birmingham
    1:34 PMCanterbury
    $911One-way
    0 transfers
  • Chiltern Railways
    8:45 AM3h49
    Birmingham
    12:34 PMCanterbury
    $1021One-way
    0 transfers
  • Chiltern Railways
    4:45 PM3h49
    Birmingham
    8:34 PMCanterbury
    $1021One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    9:21 AM3h13
    Birmingham
    12:34 PMCanterbury
    $1251One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    8:21 AM3h13
    Birmingham
    11:34 AMCanterbury
    $1261One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Birmingham to Canterbury

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 58m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a train costs an average of $34.

Distance: 151 miles (244 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$86

Average price

$27

Average price

Cheapest

$84

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 28m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 8m

Average total duration

5h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 15m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Chiltern Railways

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Canterbury is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).

This is compared to other travel options from Birmingham to Canterbury:

A bus is $59 (€48) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Birmingham to Canterbury costing on average $86 (€70).

The fastest way to travel from Birmingham to Canterbury is by train with an average journey time of 2h 58m.

Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 38m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham and Canterbury including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Canterbury among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 17m sooner (2h 58m by train vs 3h 15m by car). Tickets start at around $86 (€70) compared to roughly $84 (€68) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Birmingham to Canterbury train times

The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Canterbury trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West Coast8:21 AM Birmingham
3h13
11:34 AM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
Chiltern Railways8:45 AM Birmingham
3h49
12:34 PM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast9:21 AM Birmingham
3h13
12:34 PM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast10:21 AM Birmingham
3h13
1:34 PM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
Chiltern Railways4:45 PM Birmingham
3h49
8:34 PM Canterbury0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Birmingham to Canterbury 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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

Why should you book Birmingham to Canterbury trains with Omio?

Chiltern Railways as well as Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Birmingham to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio vs Chiltern Railways?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Chiltern Railways, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Canterbury.
  • 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 Chiltern Railways with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Canterbury.

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 to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Canterbury.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Canterbury.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Birmingham to Canterbury

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Birmingham to Canterbury run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:15, the last at 23:07. The fastest train covers the 151 miles (244 km) distance in 3h 4m.

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 $22 (€18)
Distance
151 miles (244 km)
Average train duration
2h 58m
Cheapest ticket price
$34 (€28)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 4m
First train
5:15 AM
Last train
11:07 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
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 $22 (€18)

Train companies: Chiltern Railways, Avanti West Coast from Birmingham to Canterbury trainsChiltern Railways, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Birmingham and Canterbury from $22 (€18). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 39m
Cheapest Price
$89 (€73)
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

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
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€28)
Avanti West Coast frequency
12 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

Complete guide to Canterbury

Things to do in Canterbury

Discover the best of Canterbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canterbury trip today.

  • Recommended

The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge

Interactive museum inside a medieval church telling the story of Canterbury’s Roman, medieval, and modern past. Ideal first stop for context.

  • Recommended

Canterbury Roman Museum

Underground remains of a Roman townhouse with mosaics and hypocaust. A compact but memorable look at Roman Canterbury beneath the streets.

  • Recommended

The Canterbury Tales

Story-led museum on medieval pilgrimage inspired by Chaucer. It brings Canterbury’s most famous journeying tradition to life.

British Pound (£)

Moderate for UK travel. Hotels and dining cost less than London, but tourist-season stays and central restaurants raise prices. Local buses are reasonable.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£50+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included at restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis: round up or add 5-10%. Cafes: optional small change.

FAQs: Trains from Birmingham to Canterbury

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34 (€28), while the average price is around $86 (€70).
The train from Birmingham to Canterbury takes 3h 4m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Canterbury is 151 miles (244 km).
The first train from Birmingham to Canterbury leaves at 5:15 AM.
The last train from Birmingham to Canterbury leaves at 11:07 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Birmingham to Canterbury.
There is no direct train service currently available from Birmingham to Canterbury.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Birmingham to Canterbury.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Canterbury is Birmingham New Street (BHM), which connects to Canterbury West (CBW).
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Canterbury is by bus, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
The train journey from Birmingham to Canterbury offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque English countryside, charming towns, and historical landscapes.
A day trip from Birmingham to Canterbury is not feasible due to the travel time of 3h 4m. However, there are 6 train journeys available per day, covering a distance of 151 miles (244 km).
In Canterbury, you can explore the historic streets on a guided walking tour, enjoy a punting tour on the River Stour, and visit the Canterbury Tales attraction. Attend a performance at The Marlowe Theatre or discover the local food scene with a culinary tour. Don't miss the Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine's Abbey, and the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint. Additionally, explore the Canterbury Roman Museum and take a leisurely walk in Westgate Gardens.
To fully experience Canterbury, including its historic sites like Canterbury Cathedral, the Roman Museum, and the charming streets, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Canterbury.
Since neither Birmingham nor Canterbury 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 Canterbury include London, Chatham, Dover, Rochester, Ashford.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around popular tourist sites. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can also occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed transportation. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Birmingham to Canterbury

Most Birmingham to Canterbury trains use the Birmingham New Street to Canterbury West station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury East. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Canterbury train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Birmingham
Arrival train stations in Canterbury
Birmingham New StreetStation Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham New Street from Birmingham city centre

Bus16 · 7m · $2 · every ~27 min

Birmingham New Street train station facilities and services

Birmingham New Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: All Bar One, Leon, Caffè Nero, Five Guys, Krispy Kreme, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Wasabi, Starbucks, Hotel Chocolat

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud. ATMs are aTM machines are located on the paid concourse.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00, Sun: 07:30 - 23:00. Information desks are in the middle of the station.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is you can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham New Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Birmingham New Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham New Street: Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center, Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station), Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham.

Birmingham Moor StreetBirmingham Moor Street station, Queensway, Birmingham, West Midlands, B4 7ULWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Birmingham Moor Street from Birmingham city centre

TrainBirmingham Snow Hill - Whitlocks End, Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Birmingham Moor Street, Worcester Foregate Street - Birmingham Moor Street, Worcester Shrub Hill - Dorridge, Stourbridge Junction - Dorridge, Birmingham Snow Hill - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Leamington Spa, Birmingham Snow Hill - Leamington Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill - Leamington Spa, Kidderminster - Stratford-upon-Avon, Kidderminster - Whitlocks End, Stourbridge Junction - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Whitlocks End · 2m · $1 · every ~7 min
Bus16 · 13m · $2 · every ~27 min
TramMetro · 16m · every ~15 min

Birmingham Moor Street train station facilities and services

Birmingham Moor Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Birmingham Moor Street.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham Moor Street. ATMs are available at Birmingham Moor Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Birmingham Moor Street.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Birmingham Moor Street: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Birmingham Moor Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham Moor Street: 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.

Selly OakSelly Oak station, Bristol Road, Selly Oak, West Midlands, B29 6DWShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Selly Oak from Birmingham city centre

Selly Oak is 4 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainBirmingham New Street - Redditch, Birmingham New Street - Bromsgrove, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Redditch, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Longbridge, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Bromsgrove, Four Oaks - Redditch · 9m · $1 · every ~8 min
Bus63, 61 · 16m · $2 · every ~52 min
63, 61 · 18m · $2 · every ~52 min

Selly Oak train station facilities and services

Selly Oak has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Selly Oak.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Selly Oak. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Selly Oak: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Selly Oak: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Selly Oak: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, 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 in the Booking Hall and on Platform One, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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