- Must visit
Oriental Museum
World-class Oriental collections spanning China, Japan, Korea, Egypt, and South Asia in Durham University’s museum.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Durham
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
kr431
Average price
kr796
Fastest journey
3 h 20 m
Average duration
3 h 29 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
256 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Durham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Durham will cost around kr796 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr431.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Birmingham for Durham on Wed, Aug 05, 4 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 256 km distance in an average of 3 h 29 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 3 h 56 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.
8:03 AM3h20Birmingham11:23 AMDurhamkr4311One-way0 transfers- 9:03 AM3h20Birmingham12:23 PMDurhamkr6111One-way0 transfers
- 10:03 AM3h20Birmingham1:23 PMDurhamkr9911One-way0 transfers
6:09 PM3h56Birmingham10:05 PMDurhamkr11491One-way0 transfers
- 9:03 AM3h20Birmingham12:23 PMDurhamkr6111One-way0 transfers
- 10:03 AM3h20Birmingham1:23 PMDurhamkr9911One-way0 transfers
- 8:03 AM3h20Birmingham11:23 AMDurhamkr4311One-way0 transfers
- 6:09 PM3h56Birmingham10:05 PMDurhamkr11491One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Birmingham to Durham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Durham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from kr125. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 8m. 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 kr125, and a train costs an average of kr281.
Distance: 159 miles (256 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
kr877 Average price | kr350 Average price Cheapest |
3h 38m Average total duration Fastest 3h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 6m Average total duration 5h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.6kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Birmingham to Durham is a bus with an average price of kr350.
This is compared to other travel options from Birmingham to Durham:
A bus is kr528 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Birmingham to Durham costing on average kr877.
The fastest way to travel from Birmingham to Durham is by train with an average journey time of 3h 8m.
Other travel options to Durham take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 36m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham and Durham including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Durham among Omio's users.
Live departures
Birmingham to Durham train times
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Durham trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:03 PM Birmingham | 3h22 | 7:25 PM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 8:03 AM Birmingham | 3h20 | 11:23 AM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:03 AM Birmingham | 3h20 | 12:23 PM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:03 AM Birmingham | 3h20 | 1:23 PM Durham | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Birmingham to Durham 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
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Aug 11
Why should you book Birmingham to Durham trains with Omio?
CrossCountry operates all trains services from Birmingham to Durham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Durham.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- 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 Durham.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Durham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Birmingham to Durham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Birmingham to Durham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at kr281 but you can travel from only kr125 by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:30, the last at 22:03. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (256 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 kr125
Distance 159 miles (256 km) |
Average train duration 3h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price kr281 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 43m |
First train 3:30 AM |
Last train 10:03 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 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 kr125
Train companies: CrossCountry from Birmingham to Durham trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Birmingham and Durham from kr125. 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
kr281
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
Complete guide to Durham
Things to do in Durham
Discover the best of Durham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Durham trip today.
- Recommended
Durham Museum and Heritage Centre
Award-winning museum on Durham’s heritage, archaeology, and local stories, housed in a former medieval church.
- Recommended
Open Treasure
Museum inside Durham Cathedral exploring monastic treasures, manuscripts, and the site’s long religious history.
- Must visit
River Wear Walk
Leafy riverside walk encircling the peninsula, famous for classic cathedral views and one of Durham’s best strolls.
- Must visit
Palace Green
Historic green beside cathedral and castle, central to the UNESCO site and ideal for architecture and atmosphere.
- Recommended
Silver Street
Cobbled street lined with old buildings, independent shops, and one of Durham’s most characterful city-centre walks.
- Vegetarian
Sunderland Cake
A spiced fruit loaf from nearby Sunderland, traditionally sliced and spread with butter. It is a classic North East tea-time treat with strong regional roots.
- Gluten-free
Pease Pudding
A rich savoury broth from the North East made with pulses, vegetables and usually ham or bacon. Long linked with working-class cooking and local comfort food.
Panackelty Pie
A hearty minced beef and onion pie under a pastry lid, strongly associated with North East football and pub food traditions.
The Bishop's Dining Room
Refined British fine dining by Tommy Banks in a historic setting. Known for seasonal tasting menus, polished service and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Bistro Citron Vert
A long-established riverside restaurant serving classic French dishes in a formal, traditional dining room. Well regarded for consistency and old-school charm.
Flat White Kitchen
Popular independent spot for brunch, coffee and casual meals. Relaxed modern atmosphere with strong local reputation for quality ingredients and baking.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals are fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis; cafes usually just small change.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Durham Railway Station -> Durham Market Place
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is available on Arriva buses in Durham; you can usually tap on board for adult fares.
- Durham city centre is compact, so many central trips from Durham Railway Station are walkable in about 10–15 min.
FAQs: Trains from Birmingham to Durham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Durham 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 Durham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Durham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at kr281, while the average price is around kr877.
The train from Birmingham to Durham takes 2h 43m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Durham is 159 miles (256 km).
The first train from Birmingham to Durham leaves at 3:30 AM.
The last train from Birmingham to Durham leaves at 10:03 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Birmingham to Durham.
Yes, there is a direct train from Birmingham to Durham. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Birmingham to Durham.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Durham is Birmingham New Street (BHM), which connects to Durham station (DHM).
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Durham is by bus, with a cost of around kr125.
The train journey from Birmingham to Durham offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and charming towns, making it a moderately scenic route.
A day trip from Birmingham to Durham is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 43m. Trains run 6 times per day, covering a distance of 159 miles (256 km).
A stay of 2 to 3 days is often sufficient to explore Durham's key attractions, such as Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle, and the scenic River Wear, while allowing time to enjoy the local culture and dining.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Durham.
Since neither Birmingham nor Durham 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 Durham include Newcastle, Edinburgh, York, Leeds, Middlesbrough.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Birmingham to Durham 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 Durham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unauthorized street vendors. Staying alert in nightlife districts and using licensed transportation services can help ensure safety.
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 Durham
Most Birmingham to Durham trains use the Birmingham New Street to Durham station pair. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Durham 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 Durham
Birmingham New StreetStation Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham New Street from Birmingham city centre
Bus16 · 7m · kr23 · 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 InternationalBirmingham International station, Stationlink Road, National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, West Midlands, B40 1PA
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham International from Birmingham city centre
Birmingham International is 12 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Walsall - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Milton Keynes Central, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 9m · kr58 · every ~8 min
BusX1 · 39m · kr47 · every ~23 min
X1 · 40m · kr47 · every ~23 min
17A · 53m · kr47 · every ~19 min
Birmingham International train station facilities and services
Birmingham International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Birmingham International.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham International. ATMs are available at Birmingham International.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham International. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham International: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham International: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, 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 6DW
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 · kr12 · every ~8 min
Bus63, 61 · 16m · kr23 · every ~52 min
63, 61 · 18m · kr23 · 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.
Which Durham station do trains from Birmingham arrive at?
Trains from Birmingham to Durham arrive at Durham. Durham is 0 miles (1 km) from Durham city centre.
DurhamDurham station, North Road, Durham, County Durham, DH1 4RB+44 345 722 5333
City-centre transport
Getting to Durham from Durham city centre
Bus2, 9, 12, 12B · 3m · kr12 · every ~12 min
Durham train station facilities and services
Durham has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Durham.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Durham.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Durham.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Durham: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Durham: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Durham: 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 ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Birmingham
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Durham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Durham and Birmingham
Most popular train connections to Durham
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