Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) train with CrossCountry

Sun, Jun 21
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CrossCountry
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Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI)

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$65

Average price

$100

Fastest journey

2 h 25 m

Average duration

2 h 29 m

Trains per day

21

Distance

147 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) without transferring at least once.

  • Great Western RailwayW35438+CrossCountryG00871+Transport for WalesG38555
    12:20 PM2h32
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    2:52 PMBirmingham International (BHI)
    $651One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35220+CrossCountryG00884+Transport for WalesG38559
    2:20 PM2h34
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    4:54 PMBirmingham International (BHI)
    $651One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35442+CrossCountryG00940+Transport for WalesW45194
    3:15 PM2h37
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    5:52 PMBirmingham International (BHI)
    $651One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35246+CrossCountryG00907+Transport for WalesG38569
    6:20 PM2h32
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    8:52 PMBirmingham International (BHI)
    $651One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35445+CrossCountryG66777+Transport for WalesW45225
    5:20 PM2h32
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    7:52 PMBirmingham International (BHI)
    $651One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI)

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) 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 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $12, and a train costs an average of $37.

Distance: 91 miles (147 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$82

Average price

$13

Average price

Cheapest

$42

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 31m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 55m

Average total duration

3h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 11m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) is a bus with an average price of $13 (€11).

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI):

A bus is $69 (€56) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) costing on average $82 (€67).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) is by train with an average journey time of 2h 1m.

Other travel options to Birmingham International (BHI) take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 25m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Birmingham International (BHI) including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) 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 10m sooner (2h 1m by train vs 2h 11m by car). Tickets start at around $82 (€67) compared to roughly $42 (€34) 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

Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesG39587+CrossCountryG01066+West Midlands TrainsS866188:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h52
11:15 AM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
West Midlands TrainsC17024 · W11519+Transport for WalesG389428:42 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h26
12:08 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
CrossCountryW29776+Great Western RailwayC00165+West Midlands TrainsS86616
Delayed
9:40 AM 9:35 AMCardiff Central (CDF)
2h40
12:15 PM Birmingham International (BHI)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesY61968+CrossCountryG01071+West Midlands TrainsS8661510:30 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h45
1:15 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38969+West Midlands TrainsC17026 · W1152510:43 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h25
2:08 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
CrossCountryG00898+West Midlands TrainsS86613
On time
11:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h30
2:15 PM Birmingham International (BHI)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00871+Transport for WalesG38555+Great Western RailwayW35438
Delayed
12:09 PM 12:20 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
2h32
2:52 PM Birmingham International (BHI)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesY62006+CrossCountryG01077+West Midlands TrainsS8661112:29 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h46
3:15 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
CrossCountryG00878+Transport for WalesW45245+Great Western RailwayW35439
Delayed
1:09 PM 1:20 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
2h31
3:51 PM Birmingham International (BHI)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG66783+West Midlands TrainsS86609
On time
1:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h30
4:15 PM Birmingham International (BHI)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00884+Transport for WalesG38559+Great Western RailwayW352202:20 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h34
4:54 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
Transport for WalesY61969+CrossCountryW29792+West Midlands TrainsS866072:29 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h46
5:15 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
CrossCountryG00940+Transport for WalesW45194+Great Western RailwayW35442
Delayed
3:09 PM 3:15 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
2h37
5:52 PM Birmingham International (BHI)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG66798+West Midlands TrainsS866053:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h30
6:15 PM Birmingham International (BHI)1 transfer
CrossCountryG00724+West Midlands TrainsS86603+Great Western RailwayW352334:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h25
7:15 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
CrossCountryG66777+Transport for WalesW45225+Great Western RailwayW354455:20 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h32
7:52 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
CrossCountryG66836+West Midlands TrainsS866015:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h30
8:15 PM Birmingham International (BHI)1 transfer
CrossCountryG00907+Transport for WalesG38569+Great Western RailwayW352466:20 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h32
8:52 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
Transport for WalesY61964+CrossCountryG00734+West Midlands TrainsS865996:29 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h51
9:20 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC00139+CrossCountryG66806+Transport for WalesW452537:20 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h31
9:51 PM Birmingham International (BHI)2 transfers
CrossCountryG00930+West Midlands TrainsS865977:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h35
10:20 PM Birmingham International (BHI)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI).

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 Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI).
  • 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 Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI).

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 Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI).

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI)

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€30) but you can travel from only $12 (€10) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 19:50. The fastest train covers the 91 miles (147 km) distance in 2h 22m.

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 $12 (€10)
Distance
91 miles (147 km)
Average train duration
2h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
$37 (€30)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 22m
First train
4:54 AM
Last train
7:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 $12 (€10)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Birmingham International (BHI) from $12 (€10). 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 22m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€30)
CrossCountry frequency
6 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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 21m
Cheapest Price
$188 (€154)
Cross Country frequency
10 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest Price
$208 (€170)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
10 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI)

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) 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 International (BHI), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€30), while the average price is around $82 (€67).
The train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) takes 2h 22m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) is 91 miles (147 km).
The first train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) leaves at 4:54 AM.
The last train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) leaves at 7:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI).
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) is by bus, with a cost of around $12 (€10).
The train journey from Cardiff Central to Birmingham International passes through picturesque countryside, offering views of rolling hills and lush landscapes, making it a relatively scenic route.
A day trip from Cardiff Central to Birmingham International is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 22m. Trains run 7 times per day.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI).
Since neither Cardiff Central (CDF) nor Birmingham International (BHI) 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 Birmingham International (BHI) include London, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Leamington Spa, Redditch.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) 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.
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 Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI)

Most Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) trains use the Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street station pair, with some services arriving at Birmingham International. Use this guide to compare Cardiff Central (CDF) and Birmingham International (BHI) train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Birmingham
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre

Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Central train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.

CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LUParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre

TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min

Cathays train station facilities and services

Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cathays.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cathays: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Travelodge.

Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EYParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre

Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · $2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services

Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, 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 Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Travelodge.

More options for your journey from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI)

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Birmingham International (BHI) and Cardiff Central (CDF)

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomCardiff Central (CDF) to Birmingham International (BHI) train

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