Cambridge to Birmingham train with CrossCountry

Fri, Nov 07
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CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
West Midlands Trains
East Midlands Trains
1,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Chiltern Railways
West Midlands Trains
East Midlands Trains
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Birmingham

Showing times and prices for Nov 07

Cheapest price

$57

Average price

$89

Fastest journey

2 h 38 m

Average duration

2 h 44 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

141 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cambridge to Birmingham will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $57.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Cambridge for Birmingham on Fri, Nov 07, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 141 km distance in an average of 2 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 38 m .

On Fri, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 2 h 48 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.

CrossCountryC23504
06:57AM2h41
Cambridge station (CBG)
09:38AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$571One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountryC23506
08:00AM2h38
Cambridge station (CBG)
10:38AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$571One-way
0 transfers
Great NorthernY30248+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW10359
08:37AM2h50
Cambridge station (CBG)
11:27AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$961One-way
2 transfers
Great NorthernY30228+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW10503
07:09AM2h47
Cambridge station (CBG)
09:56AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$1081One-way
2 transfers
Great NorthernY30224+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW10350
06:39AM2h48
Cambridge station (CBG)
09:27AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$1081One-way
2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cambridge to Birmingham

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €11. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 18m. 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 €11, and a train costs an average of €27.

Distance: 87 miles (141 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus

€52

Average price

€22

Average price

Cheapest

3h 54m

Average total duration

3h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 18m

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

Cambridge to Birmingham train times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Birmingham trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 3:39 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
great_northernY30224+assertis_tubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Euston+avanti_west_coastW10350
On time
6:39 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h48
9:27 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2 transfers
cross_countryC23504
On time
6:57 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h41
9:38 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
great_northernY30228+assertis_tubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Euston+avanti_west_coastW10503
On time
7:09 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h47
9:56 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2 transfers
great_northernY30235+assertis_tubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Euston+avanti_west_coastW10354
On time
7:39 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h48
10:27 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2 transfers
cross_countryC23506
On time
8:00 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h38
10:38 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
great_northernY30248+assertis_tubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Euston+avanti_west_coastW10359
On time
8:37 AM Cambridge station (CBG)
2h50
11:27 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Birmingham 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.

Fri
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12
Thu
Nov 13
Fri
Nov 14
Sat
Nov 15
Sun
Nov 16
Mon
Nov 17
Tue
Nov 18
Wed
Nov 19
Thu
Nov 20

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cambridge to Birmingham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train
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 $14 (€11)
Distance
87 miles (141 km)
Average train duration
3h 24m
Cheapest ticket price
$34 (€27)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 38m
First train
04:53
Last train
22:17

Key Takeaways

Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Cambridge to Birmingham start from as low as $34 (€27) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $64 (€52) depending on the train type and class.
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 $14 (€11)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains, East Midlands Trains, Cross Country from Cambridge to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, West Midlands Trains, East Midlands Trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Cambridge and Birmingham from $14 (€11). 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 38m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
CrossCountry frequency
3 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 42m
Cheapest Price
$91 (€74)
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 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 39m
Cheapest Price
$110 (€89)
Chiltern Railways frequency
1 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
4h 40m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€86)
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

East Midlands Trains

About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 20m
Cheapest Price
$113 (€92)
East Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 38m
Cheapest Price
$156 (€127)
Cross Country frequency
16 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cambridge to Birmingham

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

FAQs
The distance by train from Cambridge to Birmingham is 87 miles (141 km).
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Birmingham's key attractions, including its museums, culinary scene, and shopping areas.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Cambridge to Birmingham.
The first train from Cambridge to Birmingham leaves at 4:53 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Birmingham.
The last train from Cambridge to Birmingham leaves at 10:17 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cambridge to Birmingham. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
In Birmingham, you can explore the historic Jewellery Quarter, take a canal boat tour, and visit the National SEA LIFE Centre. Enjoy performances at the Birmingham Hippodrome and discover history at the Birmingham Back to Backs. Must-see sights include the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Cadbury World, Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Symphony Hall, and The Bullring shopping center.
A day trip from Cambridge to Birmingham is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 38m. However, there are 7 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 87 miles (141 km).
The train journey from Cambridge to Birmingham is moderately scenic, featuring views of the English countryside, including rolling hills and farmland, but lacks dramatic landscapes.
Train ticket prices from Cambridge to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34 (€27), while the average price is around $64 (€52).
The cheapest way to get from Cambridge to Birmingham is by bus, with a cost of around $14 (€11).
The train from Cambridge to Birmingham takes 2h 38m and runs 7 per day.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Birmingham is Cambridge station (CBG), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cambridge to Birmingham.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cambridge to Birmingham

Cambridge
Birmingham
The major train station for departures in Cambridge is Cambridge. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cambridge for your trip from Cambridge to Birmingham.
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
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:10 - 23:00 Saturday 05:10 - 23:00 Sunday 07:00 - 22:55
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Premium Bay
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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 taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster
  • 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: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The accessible toilets are on platform 4
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Platforms 1, 4 and 7
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Cycle point is by the Car Park
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cambridge
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement buses depart from the front of the station
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
3 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Station foyer
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Waiting rooms are available on each platform
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Adjacent station building.
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
  • Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878
Public transit options for Cambridge North
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: From bus stop on station forecourt.

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