Plymouth to Birmingham train with CrossCountry

Wed, Aug 05
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Birmingham

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$47

Average price

$73

Fastest journey

3 h 27 m

Average duration

3 h 28 m

Trains per day

8

Distance

281 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Plymouth to Birmingham will cost around $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $47.

Fast trains

Of the 8 trains that leave Plymouth for Birmingham on Wed, Aug 05, 8 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 281 km distance in an average of 3 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 27 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 3 h 28 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.

  • CrossCountry
    4:27 PM3h28
    Plymouth
    7:55 PMBirmingham
    $471One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    8:27 AM3h28
    Plymouth
    11:55 AMBirmingham
    $521One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    3:27 PM3h27
    Plymouth
    6:54 PMBirmingham
    $531One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    11:27 AM3h28
    Plymouth
    2:55 PMBirmingham
    $581One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    9:27 AM3h28
    Plymouth
    12:55 PMBirmingham
    $601One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Plymouth to Birmingham

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Plymouth to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $6. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $6, and a flight costs an average of $348.

Distance: 174 miles (281 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$114

Average price

$33

Average price

Cheapest

$662

Average price

$86

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 29m

Average total duration

5h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 52m

Average total duration

6h 52m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 51m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Plymouth to Birmingham is a bus with an average price of $33.

This is compared to other travel options from Plymouth to Birmingham:

A bus is $81 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Plymouth to Birmingham costing on average $114.

A bus is $629 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Plymouth to Birmingham costing on average $662.

The fastest way to travel from Plymouth to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 3h 56m.

Other travel options to Birmingham take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 59m.

Flight takes on average 6h 52m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Plymouth and Birmingham including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth 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 $114 compared to roughly $86 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-27.84. The journey takes 3h 56m versus 3h 51m 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.

Live departures

Plymouth to Birmingham train times

The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Birmingham trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry8:27 AM Plymouth
3h28
11:55 AM Birmingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry9:27 AM Plymouth
3h28
12:55 PM Birmingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry10:05 AM Plymouth
3h50
1:55 PM Birmingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry10:27 AM Plymouth
3h28
1:55 PM Birmingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry11:27 AM Plymouth
3h28
2:55 PM Birmingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry12:27 PM Plymouth
3h28
3:55 PM Birmingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry3:27 PM Plymouth
3h27
6:54 PM Birmingham0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry4:27 PM Plymouth
3h28
7:55 PM Birmingham0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Plymouth to Birmingham by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight 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
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

Why should you book Plymouth to Birmingham trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway or Cross Country offer trains services from Plymouth to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Plymouth 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 Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth 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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Plymouth to Birmingham.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Birmingham.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Plymouth to Birmingham.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Plymouth to Birmingham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Plymouth to Birmingham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 but you can travel from only $6 by bus.

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:00, the last at 20:13. The fastest train covers the 174 miles (281 km) distance in 3h 18m.

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 $6
Distance
174 miles (281 km)
Average train duration
3h 56m
Cheapest ticket price
$46
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
5
Fastest train
3h 18m
First train
5:00 AM
Last train
8:13 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
3 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 $6

Train companies: CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country from Plymouth to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry, Great Western Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between Plymouth and Birmingham from $6. 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
3h 18m
Cheapest Price
$46
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

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 23m
Cheapest Price
$246
Great Western Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at 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
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 27m
Cheapest Price
$307
Cross Country frequency
12 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

Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery

Major city museum and gallery with fine art, Birmingham history and global collections in a landmark building.

  • Must visit

Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum

Science museum with interactive galleries, engines and family-friendly exhibits in Millennium Point.

  • Recommended

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts

Historic home of the Pre-Raphaelite artists, showing furnished rooms, artworks and craft details.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are fairly manageable for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped about 10%. Tipping in cafes is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Plymouth to Birmingham

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plymouth 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
Train ticket prices from Plymouth to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46, while the average price is around $114.
The train from Plymouth to Birmingham takes 3h 18m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Plymouth to Birmingham leaves at 5:00 AM.
The distance by train from Plymouth to Birmingham is 174 miles (281 km).
The last train from Plymouth to Birmingham leaves at 8:13 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Plymouth to Birmingham.
Yes, there is a direct train from Plymouth to Birmingham. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Plymouth to Birmingham.
The train station in Plymouth that goes to Birmingham is Plymouth station (PLY), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
The cheapest way to get from Plymouth to Birmingham is by bus, with a cost of around $6.
The train journey from Plymouth to Birmingham offers scenic views, especially as it travels along the picturesque Devon coastline and through the rolling landscapes of the English countryside.
A day trip from Plymouth to Birmingham is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 18m and the distance is 174 miles (281 km). However, trains run 5 times per day.
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 Plymouth to Birmingham.
Since neither Plymouth 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth 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 Plymouth to Birmingham

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

Departure train stations in Plymouth
Arrival train stations in Birmingham

Which Plymouth station do trains to Birmingham leave from?

Trains from Plymouth to Birmingham leave from Plymouth. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Plymouth city centre at Plymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB.
PlymouthPlymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB+44 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Plymouth from Plymouth city centre

Bus13, 2, 170 · 4m · $2 · every ~11 min

Plymouth train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Plymouth.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Plymouth. ATMs are available at Plymouth.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Plymouth.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Plymouth: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Plymouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Plymouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and the station subway. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

DevonportDevonport station, Portland Road, Devonport, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 4QNParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Devonport from Plymouth city centre

Devonport is 2 km from Plymouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainExeter St Davids - Penzance, Plymouth - Penzance, Plymouth - Gunnislake, Plymouth - Liskeard · 3m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusDc7 · 8m · $2
Dc7 · 9m · $2
21, 34, 21A · 13m · $5 · every ~23 min

Devonport train station facilities and services

Devonport has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Devonport.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Devonport: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Devonport: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Devonport: Staff help available: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B3 station – “Some step-free access, may be in one direction only.” Step free access possible to South bound platform, there is no step free access for services to Plymouth. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

DockyardDockyard station, Paisley Street, Devonport, Plymouth, Devon, PL2 1RXParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Dockyard from Plymouth city centre

Dockyard is 2 km from Plymouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainExeter St Davids - Penzance, Plymouth - Penzance, Plymouth - Gunnislake, Plymouth - Liskeard · 4m · $1 · every ~1 min
Bus33 · 11m · $5 · every ~5 min
33 · 14m · $5 · every ~5 min
70B, 70 · 16m · $2 · every ~3 min
33 · 17m · $5 · every ~5 min
14 · 21m · $5 · every ~3 min

Dockyard train station facilities and services

Dockyard has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Dockyard.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Dockyard: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Dockyard: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Dockyard: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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