Trains from Birmingham to London

Trains from Birmingham to London

When traveling in the United Kingdom, taking a train is a popular and comfortable means of transport. The rail network is extensive and connects different cities all around the country. Birmingham and London are approximately 126 miles (203km) apart and taking a train is the fastest way to travel between the two locations. The trains take around one hour and 40 minutes to complete the trip, and travelers can choose from more than 100 trains that make the route daily.

Birmingham to London Train time: Daily departures

The Birmingham-London route is popular with commuters. Around five trains leave Birmingham every hour, especially during rush hours. On a regular day, at least 100 trains make the journey. The earliest trains start their trips around 5:00 a.m. while the latest trains start their trips around 11:30 p.m.

How long is the journey by train from Birmingham to London?

While the average travel time varies greatly depending on the train and the operator, most trains take around one hour and 40 minutes to complete the trip. On the fastest train from Birmingham to London, the journey may take about one hour and 20 minutes. The slowest trains take around two hours. Fortunately, the journey is direct, so travelers can avoid making changes along the way.

What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Birmingham to London?

Departure train station: A train from Birmingham to London may start its journey from any of the three major train stations in the city. Moor Street station and New Street railway stations are approximately 480 meters and from the city center, but in opposite directions of each other. Snow Hill is around 160 meters from the city center. New Street has recent refurbishments, but all stations have access to facilities such as ticket machines, bathrooms, waiting rooms, restaurants, shops, and public telephones.

Arrival train station: The trains from Birmingham complete their trips at the London Marylebone or London Euston station. The Marylebone station is approximately 25 minutes to the city center, while London Euston is 11 minutes away from Central London. Travelers can use buses to reach the city center, in either case. Some of the facilities at the stations include waiting rooms, restrooms, baby changing facilities, ticket offices, ATMs, and public WiFi. Both stations are wheelchair accessible and it is possible to book station assistance 24 hours in advance. 

Which train companies travel from Birmingham to London?

There are three train companies operating from Birmingham to London: Chiltern Railways, Virgin Trains, and West Midlands Railways. All the providers offer direct trains between the cities throughout the week. The schedules are usually available at least two months in advance for travelers to make early bookings.

Chiltern Railways Birmingham to London

Chiltern Railways provides at least 30 trains from Birmingham to London. The trains are available every day as early as around 5:15 a.m. and as late as 11:30 p.m. The trains travel at 100 mph (160 kph) and arrive in London from Birmingham in around one hour and 45 minutes.

Virgin Trains Birmingham to London

Around 70 trains by Virgin Trains travel from Birmingham to London every day. The trains start their trips early in the morning, around 5:30 a.m., while the last trains leave the station around 11:00 p.m. The trains travel fast, at 125 mph (200 kph).

West Midlands Railway Birmingham to London

West Midlands Railway provides around 50 daily trains from Birmingham to London. The trains travel at speeds above 110 mph (177 kph). The first trains leave Birmingham around 5:30 a.m. while the last trains depart around 10:30 p.m.

Birmingham to London Trains: Services on Board

The trains have comfortable seats, cup holders, air conditioning, toilets, free WiFi, plug sockets, and spacious tables. Chiltern Railways offers standard classes onboard, but passengers can upgrade to business class for maximum comfort. Virgin Trains and West Midlands Railway have first and second class cabins. Foldable bikes are allowed on board as long as they don't pose harm to other passengers. Fully assembled bikes aren't allowed on Chiltern Railways trains unless it a weekend or public holiday. The other operators allow full bikes with prior booking and outside the rush hours. Passengers can bring their furry friends on Chiltern Railways trains for free. Each traveler is allowed two dogs on a lead and small pets inside suitable containers no bigger than 85 x 60 x 60 cm. Guide dogs are welcome for free. Passengers with disabilities can either travel in wheelchair dedicated spaces or use onboard seats. There is also dedicated assistance for any person with disability.

How can I find cheap train tickets from Birmingham to London?

To find a cheap train from Birmingham to London, travelers can book early. The train operators release their schedules at least two months in advance. Varying the travel dates is also a great way to save a bit of money. Travelers should compare different providers during peak hours and peak travel seasons.