- 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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The cheapest and fastest trains from Sunderland to Birmingham
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$58
Average price
$119
Fastest journey
4 h 25 m
Average duration
4 h 47 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
272 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Sunderland to Birmingham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Sunderland to Birmingham will cost around $119 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $58.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Sunderland for Birmingham on Sun, Jun 21, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 272 km distance in an average of 4 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 25 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 5 h 2 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.
8:19 AM4h45Sunderland1:04 PMBirmingham$581One-way0 transfers- 8:39 AM4h25Sunderland1:04 PMBirmingham$721One-way0 transfers
8:09 AM4h56Sunderland1:05 PMBirmingham$1551One-way0 transfers
10:08 AM5h02Sunderland3:10 PMBirmingham$1921One-way0 transfers
- 8:39 AM4h25Sunderland1:04 PMBirmingham$721One-way0 transfers
- 8:19 AM4h45Sunderland1:04 PMBirmingham$581One-way0 transfers
- 8:09 AM4h56Sunderland1:05 PMBirmingham$1551One-way0 transfers
- 10:08 AM5h02Sunderland3:10 PMBirmingham$1921One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Sunderland to Birmingham
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sunderland to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $51.
Distance: 169 miles (272 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$125 Average price | $32 Average price Cheapest | $82 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 13m Average total duration Fastest 3h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 59m Average total duration 6h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
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 Sunderland to Birmingham is a bus with an average price of $32 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Sunderland to Birmingham:
A bus is $93 (€76) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Sunderland to Birmingham costing on average $125 (€102).
The fastest way to travel from Sunderland to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 3h 43m.
Other travel options to Birmingham take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sunderland and Birmingham including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sunderland 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 $125 (€102) compared to roughly $82 (€67) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-42.68 (€-34.93). The journey takes 3h 43m versus 3h 36m 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
Sunderland to Birmingham train times
The table below shows live departures for Sunderland to Birmingham trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:09 AM Sunderland | 4h56 | 1:05 PM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:19 AM Sunderland | 4h45 | 1:04 PM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:39 AM Sunderland | 4h25 | 1:04 PM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:08 AM Sunderland | 5h02 | 3:10 PM Birmingham | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Sunderland to Birmingham by bus or train
Compare bus and 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.
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
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Wed
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Jun 27
Jun 27
Why should you book Sunderland to Birmingham trains with Omio?
CrossCountry operates all trains services from Sunderland to Birmingham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sunderland to Birmingham.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Sunderland to Birmingham.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Sunderland to Birmingham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Sunderland to Birmingham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Sunderland to Birmingham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€42) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:50, the last at 19:30. The fastest train covers the 169 miles (272 km) distance in 3h 30m.
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 $21 (€17)
Distance 169 miles (272 km) |
Average train duration 3h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $51 (€42) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 30m |
First train 5:50 AM |
Last train 7:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 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 $21 (€17)
Train companies: CrossCountry from Sunderland to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry trains will get you between Sunderland and Birmingham from $21 (€17). 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 30m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€42)
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
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 Sunderland to Birmingham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€42), while the average price is around $125 (€102).
The train from Sunderland to Birmingham takes 3h 30m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Sunderland to Birmingham is 169 miles (272 km).
The first train from Sunderland to Birmingham leaves at 5:50 AM.
The last train from Sunderland to Birmingham leaves at 7:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Sunderland to Birmingham.
There is no direct train service currently available from Sunderland to Birmingham.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Sunderland to Birmingham.
The train station in Sunderland that goes to Birmingham is Sunderland station (SUN), which connects to Birmingham New Street (BHM).
The cheapest way to get from Sunderland to Birmingham is by bus, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from Sunderland to Birmingham offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the rolling countryside, small towns, and glimpses of the Pennines, making it moderately scenic.
A day trip from Sunderland to Birmingham is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 30m. Trains run 4 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 Sunderland to Birmingham.
Since neither Sunderland 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 Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Birmingham
Most Sunderland to Birmingham trains use the Sunderland to Birmingham New Street station pair, with some services arriving at Birmingham International. Use this guide to compare Sunderland and Birmingham train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Sunderland
Arrival train stations in Birmingham
Which Sunderland station do trains to Birmingham leave from?
Trains from Sunderland to Birmingham leave from Sunderland. The station is from Sunderland city centre at Sunderland station, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3HP.
SunderlandSunderland station, Athenaeum Street, Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, SR1 3HP
City-centre transport
Getting to Sunderland from Sunderland city centre
Onward travel informationBusline 0871 200 2233
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesPick Up / Drop Off in Fawcett Street, near to the Travel Centre entrance in Athenaeum Street, outside Wilkinsons.
MetroTyne and Wear metro station close to the station. 0191 203 3333
Sunderland train station facilities and services
Sunderland has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Sunderland.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Sunderland.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Sunderland: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Sunderland: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Sunderland: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Lifts to all platforms for disabled passengers from the North end of the station. Open for all services, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Located on the North Concourse and accepts cash and cards, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
St Peters
St Peters train station facilities and services
St Peters has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, WC, Hotel, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at St Peters.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at St Peters. ATMs are available at St Peters.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St Peters: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at St Peters: Bike Parking.
Stadium of Light
City-centre transport
Getting to Stadium of Light from Sunderland city centre
Stadium of Light is 1 km from Sunderland city centre. Public transport options include:
BusTb1 · 17m
SubwayGrn · 3m · $5 · every ~19 min
Stadium of Light train station facilities and services
Stadium of Light has practical services for this route, including Dining, ATM, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stadium of Light.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Stadium of Light.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Stadium of Light: WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stadium of Light: Bike Parking.
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.
Birmingham InternationalBirmingham International station, Stationlink Road, National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, West Midlands, B40 1PA
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham International from Birmingham city centre
Birmingham International is 12 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Walsall - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Milton Keynes Central, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 9m · $6 · every ~8 min
BusX1 · 39m · $5 · every ~23 min
X1 · 40m · $5 · every ~23 min
17A · 53m · $5 · every ~19 min
Birmingham International train station facilities and services
Birmingham International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Birmingham International.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham International. ATMs are available at Birmingham International.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham International. 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 Birmingham International: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham International: 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.
BordesleyBordesley station, Coventry Road, Camp Hill, Birmingham, West Midlands, B9 4HF+44 333 311 0039
City-centre transport
Getting to Bordesley from Birmingham city centre
Bordesley is 1 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus60, 17, 50, 17A · 6m · $2 · every ~120 min
X2, 4A, X1, 2, 3, 6, 4, 5 · 8m · $2 · every ~149 min
Bordesley train station facilities and services
Bordesley has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bordesley.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bordesley: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bordesley: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bordesley: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Sunderland
More options for your journey from Sunderland to Birmingham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Birmingham and Sunderland
Most popular train connections to Birmingham
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