- Must visit
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum and gallery with fine art, Birmingham history and global collections in a landmark building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Runcorn to Birmingham
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$35
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$35
Fastest journey on Sep 20
1 h 27 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
1 h 27 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
111 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Runcorn to Birmingham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Runcorn to Birmingham will cost around $35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $35.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Runcorn to Birmingham, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 111 km distance in an average of 1 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 27 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 1 h 27 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.
C1693110:51 AM1h27Runcorn station (RUN)12:18 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$351One-way0 transfers
- C1693110:51 AM1h27Runcorn station (RUN)12:18 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$351One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Runcorn to Birmingham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Runcorn to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $19 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 50m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, while a train costs an average of $48.
Distance: 68 miles (111 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$48 Average price | $19 Average price Cheapest | $42 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 50m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 53m Average total duration 2h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Runcorn to Birmingham is a bus with an average price of $19.
This is compared to other travel options from Runcorn to Birmingham:
A bus is $29 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Runcorn to Birmingham costing on average $48.
The fastest way to travel from Runcorn to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 1h 20m.
Other travel options to Birmingham take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 23m.
Yes, you can take a train between Runcorn and Birmingham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Runcorn to Birmingham 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 16m sooner (1h 20m by train vs 1h 36m by car). Tickets start at around $48 compared to roughly $42 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.
Direct services run with West Midlands Trains, West Midlands Trains.
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
Runcorn to Birmingham train times
The table below shows live departures for Runcorn to Birmingham trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C16931 | 10:51 AM Runcorn station (RUN) | 1h27 | 12:18 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Runcorn to Birmingham by train
Compare 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.
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Why should you book Runcorn to Birmingham trains with Omio?
West Midlands Trains as well as Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains offer trains services from Runcorn to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Runcorn to Birmingham.
Why book with Omio vs West Midlands Trains?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for West Midlands Trains, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Runcorn 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Runcorn to Birmingham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Runcorn to Birmingham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Runcorn to Birmingham run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 but you can travel from only $9 by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:58, the last at 22:37. The fastest train covers the 68 miles (111 km) distance in 1h 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 $9
Distance 68 miles (111 km) |
Average train duration 1h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 1h 7m |
First train 1:58 AM |
Last train 10:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 6 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 $9
Train companies: West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast from Runcorn to Birmingham trainsWest Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Runcorn and Birmingham from $9. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 West Midlands Trains Duration
1h 16m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
$18
West Midlands Trains frequency
2 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
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 CrossCountry Duration
1h 7m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$44
CrossCountry frequency
2 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
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 Avanti West Coast Duration
1h 13m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$51
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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
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
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.
- Must visit
Brindleyplace
Restored canal-side quarter with waterside walks, bars, heritage buildings and easy access to major venues.
- Must visit
Gas Street Basin
Lively canal junction area with historic warehouses, footbridges and one of Birmingham's best urban walks.
- Must visit
Digbeth
Creative district known for street art, independent culture, music heritage and alternative city energy.
- Gluten-free
Balti
A rich curry style developed by Birmingham's South Asian community, often cooked with green chillies, coriander and onions. It is the city's signature dish.
- Vegetarian
Chaat
A spicy Indian snack of potato, chickpeas, noodles, chutneys and crisp pastry pieces. Popular in Birmingham's Pakistani and Indian food culture.
- Vegetarian
Paratha
A flaky layered flatbread, often served with curry at breakfast or late-night eateries in the city. A staple in Birmingham's South Asian dining scene.
Opheem
Michelin-starred fine dining by Aktar Islam, known for modern Indian tasting menus in an elegant canal-side setting.
Adam's
Refined modern British restaurant with inventive tasting menus and polished service in a smart city-centre dining room.
Jyoti's Restaurant
Celebrated Indian vegetarian restaurant in Sparkbrook, loved for dosas, chaats and sweets in a busy casual setting.
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.
TfWM
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Birmingham New Street -> Centenary Square
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Contactless payment is widely accepted on buses and trams. Check fare caps in the TfWM app before travel.
- Birmingham New Street is walkable to much of the centre. For faster westbound trips, use West Midlands Metro from nearby Grand Central stops.
FAQs: Trains from Runcorn to Birmingham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Runcorn 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 Runcorn to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18, while the average price is around $48.
The train from Runcorn to Birmingham takes 1h 7m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Runcorn to Birmingham leaves at 1:58 AM.
The distance by train from Runcorn to Birmingham is 68 miles (111 km).
The last train from Runcorn to Birmingham leaves at 10:37 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Runcorn to Birmingham.
Yes, there is a direct train from Runcorn to Birmingham. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by West Midlands Trains, West Midlands Trains.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Runcorn to Birmingham.
The train station in Runcorn that goes to Birmingham is Runcorn station (RUN), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
The cheapest way to get from Runcorn to Birmingham is by bus, with a cost of around $9.
The train journey from Runcorn to Birmingham offers a mix of urban and rural views, passing through the Cheshire countryside and industrial areas, providing some scenic elements but not overwhelmingly picturesque.
Yes, a day trip from Runcorn to Birmingham is feasible with a journey duration of 1h 7m and a distance of 68 miles (111 km). Trains run 3 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 Runcorn to Birmingham.
Since neither Runcorn 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 Runcorn 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 Runcorn to Birmingham
Most Runcorn to Birmingham trains use the Runcorn to Birmingham New Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Runcorn and Birmingham train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Runcorn
Arrival train stations in Birmingham
Which Runcorn station do trains to Birmingham leave from?
Trains from Runcorn to Birmingham leave from Runcorn. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Runcorn city centre at Runcorn station, Station Road, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 5UB.
RuncornRuncorn station, Station Road, Runcorn, Cheshire, WA7 5UB
City-centre transport
Getting to Runcorn from Runcorn city centre
Bus61, 79C, 82A · 1m · $2 · every ~22 min
Runcorn train station facilities and services
Runcorn has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Runcorn.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Runcorn. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, 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 Runcorn: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Runcorn: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Runcorn: 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 may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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.
Most popular train connections from Runcorn
More options for your journey from Runcorn to Birmingham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Birmingham and Runcorn
Most popular train connections to Birmingham
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