- Must visit
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum with fine art, the Staffordshire Hoard, and important local history collections in a landmark civic building.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Ely to Birmingham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ely to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 57m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $15, and a train costs an average of $31.
Distance: 91 miles (147 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$48 Average price | $28 Average price Cheapest | $38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 27m Average total duration Fastest 2h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 49m Average total duration 7h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Ely to Birmingham is a bus with an average price of $28 (€22).
This is compared to other travel options from Ely to Birmingham:
A bus is $20 (€16) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ely to Birmingham costing on average $48 (€39).
The fastest way to travel from Ely to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 2h 57m.
Other travel options to Birmingham take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 19m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ely and Birmingham including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ely to Birmingham among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $48 (€39) compared to roughly $38 (€31) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-9.69 (€-7.80). The journey takes 2h 57m versus 2h 3m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Ely 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.
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Why should you book Ely to Birmingham trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Greater Anglia or Cross Country offer trains services from Ely to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ely to Birmingham.
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 Greater Anglia or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Ely to Birmingham.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ely to Birmingham.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Ely to Birmingham.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Ely to Birmingham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Ely to Birmingham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Ely to Birmingham run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $31 (€25) but you can travel from only $15 (€12) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 21:17. The fastest train covers the 91 miles (147 km) distance in 2h 21m.
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 $15 (€12)
Distance 91 miles (147 km) |
Average train duration 2h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $31 (€25) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 21m |
First train 4:55 AM |
Last train 9:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 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 $15 (€12)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Greater Anglia, Cross Country from Ely to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry, Greater Anglia, Cross Country trains will get you between Ely and Birmingham from $15 (€12). 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 21m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
CrossCountry frequency
5 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
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 21m
Cheapest Price
$174 (€140)
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Birmingham
Things to do in Birmingham
Discover the best of Birmingham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Birmingham trip today.
- Must visit
Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum
Interactive science museum at Millennium Point with hands-on galleries, historic engines, and family-focused exhibits.
- Recommended
Ikon Gallery
Leading contemporary art gallery in Brindleyplace, known for ambitious exhibitions in a striking former school building.
- Must visit
Canalside at Brindleyplace
One of Birmingham's most popular walking areas, with restored canals, modern architecture, and especially lively evening views.
- Must visit
Jewellery Quarter
Historic district of workshops, heritage buildings, independent shops, and creative businesses; excellent for wandering.
- Must visit
Bullring
The city's best-known central area, famous for modern architecture, shopping, and the nearby Selfridges facade.
- Gluten-free
Balti Curry
Birmingham’s signature curry, traditionally cooked and served in a thin pressed-steel balti bowl. Developed by the city’s Pakistani and Kashmiri communities, it is one of the dishes most associated by
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Balti Vegetable Curry
A meat-free version of the city’s famous balti, made with vegetables, spices, tomatoes and onions. It reflects Birmingham’s South Asian food culture and is widely eaten across the Balti Triangle.
Faggots And Peas
A traditional Black Country dish popular in the Birmingham area, made from seasoned meatballs usually served with peas, gravy and often mashed potatoes. It is a classic working-class West Midlands com
Adam's
A well-known Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern British tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting.
Original Patty Men
Popular casual spot known for quality burgers, loaded fries and craft beer in a lively, modern setting.
The Wilderness
Acclaimed contemporary restaurant known for creative tasting menus and a dramatic, fashionable dining room.
Pound Sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Budget eats are reasonable, while hotels and central dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes, pubs, and for hotel staff.
TfWM
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.40
- Day pass
- GBP 4.80
To the city center
Birmingham New Street, Birmingham -> Birmingham City Centre, Birmingham
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tap and pay with a contactless card or device on buses and trams; daily caps can make this cheaper than buying separate tickets.
- Use the TfWM app for journey planning, live departures, tickets, and service updates across buses, trams, and trains.
FAQs: Trains from Ely to Birmingham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ely 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.
Train ticket prices from Ely to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $31 (€25), while the average price is around $48 (€39).
The train from Ely to Birmingham takes 2h 21m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from Ely to Birmingham is 91 miles (147 km).
The first train from Ely to Birmingham leaves at 4:55 AM.
The last train from Ely to Birmingham leaves at 9:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Ely to Birmingham.
Yes, there is a direct train from Ely to Birmingham. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ely to Birmingham.
The train station in Ely that goes to Birmingham is Ely station (ELY), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
The cheapest way to get from Ely to Birmingham is by bus, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The train journey from Ely to Birmingham offers varied scenery, including picturesque views of the Cambridgeshire countryside, charming villages, and expansive fields, transitioning to more urban landscapes as it approaches Birmingham.
A day trip from Ely to Birmingham is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 21m each way. There are 4 trains per day. The distance is 91 miles (147 km).
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.
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Birmingham's key attractions, including its museums, culinary scene, and shopping areas.
Yes, you can take the train from Ely to Birmingham.
Since neither Ely nor Birmingham 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 include Leicester, Leamington Spa, Coventry, Wolverhampton, Derby.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ely to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like shopping districts and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and remain alert in crowded places to avoid these risks.
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 Ely to Birmingham
Ely
Birmingham
The major train station for departures in Ely is Ely. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Ely for your trip from Ely to Birmingham.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
WC
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 20:00 Saturday 06:00 - 20:00 Sunday 08:30 - 18:30
Parking
- Car Park: Premium Bay
Accessibility
- 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 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
- Toilets Location: Toilets including accessible (radar key) toilets are located on all platforms and open when the station is staffed.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: There is a waiting room on platform 1 and a waiting room on platforms 2 and 3
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: In station car park
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Ely
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at station entrance
The major train station for arrivals in Birmingham is Birmingham New Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birmingham New Street for your journey to Birmingham from Ely.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersShoppingParkingDining
ATM
TaxisAccessibilityWC
HotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Car RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00
- Sun: 07:30 - 23:00
Wifi
- Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud.
Lockers
- You can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Boots located on the main concourse, before the ticket barrier Camden Food located beyond the ticket barrier Costa located beyond the ticket barrier next to Platform 5b escalator Funky Pigeon located beyond the ticket barrier between Platform escalators 9-10 M&S Food located on the main concourse Mi Casa Burritos located beyond the ticket barrier next to Platform 9 escalator The Pasty Shop located beyond the ticket barrier next to Platform 7 escalator W H Smith located on the main concourse, before the ticket barrier
Parking
- Car Park: Short Stay Car Park
Dining
- All Bar One
- Leon
- Caffè Nero
- Five Guys
- Krispy Kreme
- The Pasty Shop
- Upper Crust
- Wasabi
- Starbucks
- Hotel Chocolat
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxis drop off with the 'drop & go' in the Hill Street entrance. The taxi rank is on Navigation Street (Stephenson Street / Victoria Square exit). For more information visit Traintaxi
- Accessible taxis: Taxis drop off within the 'drop & go' off the Hill Street entrance. The taxi rank is on Navigation Street (Stephenson Street / Victoria Square exit). All taxis are accessible with manual wheelchairs, most are accessible with electric wheelchairs. For more information visit Traintaxi
Accessibility
- Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.
WC
- Toilets Location: Male, Female, Accessible and Baby Change facilities are available in all parts of the station. These are located between: Platforms 2 - 3a (Blue Lounge) Platforms 10 - 11a (Yellow Lounge) Platforms 10 - 11b (Red Lounge)
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Close to Platforms 1A and 12A and Platforms 10 and 11B
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets,Male toilets
Hotel
- Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center
- Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station)
- Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: There are two large seating areas beyond the ticket barrier between the escalators to platforms 5b and 8b. All platforms have waiting areas with seating
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00
- Sun: 07:30 - 23:00
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- In the middle of the station.
Public transit options for Birmingham New Street
- Bus lines: N5, N6, N8, 4, 9, 23, 45, 50, 61, X51, X70
- Train lines: West Midlands, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales
- Onward travel information: There are nearby bus stops on Smallbrook Queensway and Hill Street Most buses are wheelchair accessible. ********************************************************************************************************** For information go to the local travel information office by the Stephenson Street entrance. Alternatively, visit Transport for West Midlands, or call 0121 214 7214.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 21:00 Saturday 06:15 - 21:00 Sunday 08:15 - 21:00
Distance to city center
12 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The accessible toilets are located on the Concourse.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Closed until further notice.
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: 18 cycle stands plus a cycling compound with 27 spaces available at the front of the station (please see staff for more information)
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Birmingham International
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station opposite the entrance to the long stay car park.
Most popular train connections from Ely
More options for your journey from Ely to Birmingham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Birmingham and Ely
Most popular train connections to Birmingham
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