- Must visit
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum with Pre-Raphaelite art, local history, and rotating exhibitions in a landmark civic building.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Retford to Birmingham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Retford to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $55. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 51m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $55, and a train costs an average of $109.
Distance: 70 miles (113 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$109 Average price | $55 Average price Cheapest | $30 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 21m Average total duration Fastest 1h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 55m Average total duration 8h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Retford to Birmingham is a bus with an average price of $55 (€45).
This is compared to other travel options from Retford to Birmingham:
A bus is $54 (€44) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Retford to Birmingham costing on average $109 (€89).
The fastest way to travel from Retford to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 1h 51m.
Other travel options to Birmingham take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Retford and Birmingham including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Retford 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 $109 (€89) compared to roughly $30 (€25) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-79.19 (€-64.87). The journey takes 1h 51m versus 1h 49m 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 Retford 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 Retford to Birmingham trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Northern Trains Limited offer trains services from Retford to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Retford 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 Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Retford 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 Retford to Birmingham.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Retford to Birmingham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Retford to Birmingham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Retford to Birmingham run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $109 (€89) but you can travel from only $55 (€45) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:42, the last at 20:55. The fastest train covers the 70 miles (113 km) distance in 2h 7m.
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 $55 (€45)
Distance 70 miles (113 km) |
Average train duration 1h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $109 (€89) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 2h 7m |
First train 5:42 AM |
Last train 8:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $55 (€45)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Northern Trains Limited from Retford to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Retford and Birmingham from $55 (€45). 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 7m
Cheapest Price
$109 (€89)
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
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
$126 (€103)
Northern Trains Limited 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.
- Recommended
Thinktank, Birmingham Science Museum
Family-friendly science museum with interactive galleries, a planetarium, and displays on industry and innovation.
- Recommended
Ikon Gallery
Leading contemporary art gallery in Brindleyplace, known for ambitious exhibitions in a restored Victorian school building.
- Must visit
Gas Street Basin
One of Birmingham's most photogenic canal hubs, popular for strolling, waterside views, and industrial heritage atmosphere.
- Must visit
Jewellery Quarter
Historic district known for independent workshops, heritage streetscapes, and a strong local creative identity.
- Must visit
Digbeth
Creative neighborhood famous for street art, warehouses, and a trendy atmosphere that is highly popular on social media.
- Gluten-free
Balti Curry
Birmingham’s signature curry, cooked and served in a thin pressed-steel balti bowl. Developed by the city’s South Asian communities, it is one of the most iconic local dishes to try.
Faggots and Peas
A traditional Black Country dish of seasoned meatballs, usually served with peas and gravy. It is a classic working-class meal closely associated with the Birmingham area.
- Gluten-free
Pork Scratchings
Crunchy roasted pork rind snack long linked with pubs across the Black Country and Birmingham. Salty and rich, it is a very local bar snack.
Original Patty Men
Well-known casual spot celebrated for quality burgers, loaded fries, and craft beer in a lively, modern atmosphere.
The Wilderness
Modern fine-dining restaurant known for creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation in a stylish city-centre setting.
Asha's Birmingham
Established upscale Indian restaurant serving refined North Indian dishes in elegant surroundings, popular for special occasions.
Pound sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Chain cafes and pubs are affordable, while central hotels and upscale dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. Tipping in pubs and cafes is optional.
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 -> Victoria Square, Birmingham
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Tap and go with a contactless card or device is available on buses, trams, and trains within the TfWM area, with daily capping on supported services.
- Use the TfWM app for journey planning, tickets, and live service updates across buses, trams, and local trains.
FAQs: Trains from Retford to Birmingham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Retford 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 Retford to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $109 (€89), while the average price is around $109 (€89).
The train from Retford to Birmingham takes 2h 7m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Retford to Birmingham leaves at 5:42 AM.
The distance by train from Retford to Birmingham is 70 miles (113 km).
The last train from Retford to Birmingham leaves at 8:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Retford to Birmingham.
There is no direct train service currently available from Retford to Birmingham.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Retford to Birmingham.
The train station in Retford that goes to Birmingham is Retford station (RET), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
The cheapest way to get from Retford to Birmingham is by bus, with a cost of around $55 (€45).
The train journey from Retford to Birmingham offers a mix of urban and rural views, featuring picturesque countryside landscapes, charming towns, and glimpses of the English Midlands, making it moderately scenic.
A day trip from Retford to Birmingham is not feasible as the travel duration is 2h 7m. However, there are 6 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 70 miles (113 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 Retford to Birmingham.
Since neither Retford 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 Retford 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 Retford to Birmingham
Most Retford to Birmingham trains use the Retford to Birmingham New Street station pair, with some services arriving at Lea Hall. Use this guide to compare Retford and Birmingham train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Retford
Arrival train stations in Birmingham
Which Retford station do trains to Birmingham leave from?
Trains from Retford to Birmingham leave from Retford. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Retford city centre at Retford station, Station Road, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 7DE.
RetfordRetford station, Station Road, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 7DE
City-centre transport
Getting to Retford from Retford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail Replacement Coaches leave from the front of the station.
Retford train station facilities and services
Retford has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Retford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Retford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Retford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Retford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Retford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Advance booking is advisable, 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.
Birmingham New StreetStation Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham New Street from Birmingham city centre
Bus16 · 7m · $2 · every ~27 min
Birmingham New Street train station facilities and services
Birmingham New Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: All Bar One, Leon, Caffè Nero, Five Guys, Krispy Kreme, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Wasabi, Starbucks, Hotel Chocolat
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud. ATMs are aTM machines are located on the paid concourse.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00, Sun: 07:30 - 23:00. Information desks are in the middle of the station.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham New Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham New Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham New Street: Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center, Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station), Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham.
Lea HallLea Hall station, Lea Hall Road, Lea Hall, West Midlands, B33 8JU
City-centre transport
Getting to Lea Hall from Birmingham city centre
Lea Hall is 7 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 10m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus97, 97A · 36m · $2 · every ~42 min
97, 97A · 39m · $2 · every ~42 min
Lea Hall train station facilities and services
Lea Hall has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lounge, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lea Hall.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lea Hall. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Lea Hall: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Lea Hall: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lea Hall: 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 public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Kings NortonKings Norton station, Pershore Road South, Kings Norton, West Midlands, B30 3EG
City-centre transport
Getting to Kings Norton from Birmingham city centre
Kings Norton is 7 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainFour Oaks - Redditch, Birmingham New Street - Kings Norton, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Bromsgrove, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Redditch, Birmingham New Street - Bromsgrove, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Longbridge, Birmingham New Street - Redditch · 15m · $2 · every ~11 min
Kings Norton train station facilities and services
Kings Norton has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Kings Norton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kings Norton. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Kings Norton: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kings Norton: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kings Norton: 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 public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Retford
More options for your journey from Retford to Birmingham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Birmingham and Retford
Most popular train connections to Birmingham
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