Preston to Birmingham train with Avanti West Coast

Wed, Nov 05
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Northern Rail (3)
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Northern Rail (3)
Regionale
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Birmingham

Showing times and prices for Nov 05

Cheapest price

$20

Average price

$54

Fastest journey

1 h 48 m

Average duration

1 h 48 m

Trains per day

18

Distance

153 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Preston to Birmingham will cost around $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.

Fast trains

Of the 18 trains that leave Preston for Birmingham on Wed, Nov 05, 9 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Nov 05 the direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 1 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 48 m .

On Wed, Nov 05 the slowest trains will take 1 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.

Avanti West CoastW10453
08:17AM1h49
Preston station (PRE)
10:06AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$201One-way
0 transfers
Avanti West CoastW10458
10:18AM1h48
Preston station (PRE)
12:06PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$241One-way
0 transfers
Avanti West CoastP00489
04:18PM1h48
Preston station (PRE)
06:06PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$241One-way
0 transfers
Avanti West CoastW10455
09:18AM1h49
Preston station (PRE)
11:07AMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$251One-way
0 transfers
Avanti West CoastW10461
11:18AM1h48
Preston station (PRE)
01:06PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)
$251One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Preston to Birmingham

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Birmingham 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 17m. 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 €12, and a train costs an average of €12.

Distance: 95 miles (153 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€29

Average price

€21

Average price

Cheapest

2h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 8m

Average total duration

3h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

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

Preston to Birmingham train times

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

Last updated at 9:54 PM

ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
avanti_west_coastW10453
On time
8:17 AM Preston station (PRE)
1h49
10:06 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
northern_railY05797+cross_countryC23559
On time
8:20 AM Preston station (PRE)
2h36
10:56 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1 transfer
avanti_west_coastW10455
On time
9:18 AM Preston station (PRE)
1h49
11:07 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
northern_railY05771+cross_countryC23562
On time
9:20 AM Preston station (PRE)
2h36
11:56 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1 transfer
avanti_west_coastW10458
On time
10:18 AM Preston station (PRE)
1h48
12:06 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
northern_railY04856+cross_countryC23566
On time
10:20 AM Preston station (PRE)
2h36
12:56 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1 transfer
avanti_west_coastW10461
On time
11:18 AM Preston station (PRE)
1h48
1:06 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
avanti_west_coastP00488
On time
12:18 PM Preston station (PRE)
1h48
2:06 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
northern_railY05939+cross_countryC23574
On time
12:21 PM Preston station (PRE)
2h35
2:56 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1 transfer
avanti_west_coastW10464
On time
1:17 PM Preston station (PRE)
1h49
3:06 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
avanti_west_coastP00463+cross_countryC23519
On time
1:19 PM Preston station (PRE)
2h19
3:38 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1 transfer
northern_railY05737+cross_countryC23577
On time
1:21 PM Preston station (PRE)
2h35
3:56 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1 transfer
avanti_west_coastW10468
On time
2:18 PM Preston station (PRE)
1h48
4:06 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
northern_railY05969+cross_countryC23580
On time
2:20 PM Preston station (PRE)
2h36
4:56 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1 transfer
avanti_west_coastW10472
On time
3:18 PM Preston station (PRE)
1h48
5:06 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
northern_railY00925+cross_countryC23583
On time
3:20 PM Preston station (PRE)
2h36
5:56 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1 transfer
avanti_west_coastP00489
On time
4:18 PM Preston station (PRE)
1h48
6:06 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
0 transfersDirect
northern_railY00913+cross_countryC23592
On time
4:20 PM Preston station (PRE)
2h36
6:56 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM)
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Preston 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.

Wed
Nov 05
Thu
Nov 06
Fri
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11

Journey information

Overview: Train from Preston 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 $15 (€12)
Distance
95 miles (153 km)
Average train duration
2h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
$15 (€12)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
1h 36m
First train
04:56
Last train
22:30

Key Takeaways

Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Preston to Birmingham start from as low as $15 (€12) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $35 (€29) 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 $15 (€12)

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Northern Rail (3) from Preston to Birmingham trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Northern Rail (3) trains will get you between Preston and Birmingham from $15 (€12). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
1h 36m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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

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 30m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€59)
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

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
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
$78 (€64)
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

Northern Rail (3)

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Northern Rail (3) frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

FAQs: Trains from Preston to Birmingham

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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
Two to three days are generally sufficient to explore Birmingham's key attractions, including its museums, culinary scene, and shopping areas.
The train journey from Preston to Birmingham offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, featuring views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and small towns, making parts of the journey scenic.
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.
The distance by train from Preston to Birmingham is 95 miles (153 km).
The first train from Preston to Birmingham leaves at 4:56 AM.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $15 (€12), while the average price is around $35 (€29).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Birmingham is by bus, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The last train from Preston to Birmingham leaves at 10:30 PM.
The train from Preston to Birmingham takes 1h 36m and runs 7 per day.
The train station in Preston that goes to Birmingham is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Preston to Birmingham.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Birmingham.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Birmingham.
Yes, there is a direct train from Preston to Birmingham. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
Yes, a day trip from Preston to Birmingham is feasible. The journey takes 1h 36m and covers a distance of 95 miles (153 km). There are 7 trains per day.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Preston to Birmingham

Preston
Birmingham
The major train station for departures in Preston is Preston. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Preston for your trip from Preston to Birmingham.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
  • 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday
  • 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
6
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24 hours, located adjacent to the station with access from Butler Street.
Dining
Dining
  • Rise
  • The Olive Tree Brasserie
  • Turtle Bay
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps.
WC
WC
  • £0.30
Hotel
Hotel
  • Holiday Inn Express Preston - South
  • Delta Hotels Preston
  • Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main hall
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Europcar
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-3 for long-distance services
  • Hall 2: platforms 4-6 for regional and local services
Public transit options for Preston
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Train: Northern, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express services

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone