- Must visit
Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery
Major city museum and gallery with fine art, Birmingham history and global collections in a landmark building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
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
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Sunderland to Birmingham
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$73
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$177
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 25 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h 29 m
Trains on Sep 20
6
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 $177 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Sunderland to Birmingham without transferring at least once.
W29874+
TW0179008:39 AM4h26Sunderland station (SUN)1:05 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$731One-way1 transfer- W29869+TW0243007:39 AM4h28Sunderland station (SUN)12:07 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$731One-way1 transfer
P28641+G011479:19 AM4h45Sunderland station (SUN)2:04 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$2291One-way1 transfer- W29886+
Y1481410:29 AM4h37Sunderland station (SUN)3:06 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$2291One-way1 transfer - G01147+TW0229009:39 AM4h25Sunderland station (SUN)2:04 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$2291One-way1 transfer
- G01147+TW0229009:39 AM4h25Sunderland station (SUN)2:04 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$2291One-way1 transfer
- W29874+TW0179008:39 AM4h26Sunderland station (SUN)1:05 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$731One-way1 transfer
- W29869+TW0243007:39 AM4h28Sunderland station (SUN)12:07 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$731One-way1 transfer
- W29874+Y148088:37 AM4h28Sunderland station (SUN)1:05 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$2291One-way1 transfer
- W29886+Y1481410:29 AM4h37Sunderland station (SUN)3:06 PMBirmingham New Street (BHM)$2291One-way1 transfer
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 an average ticket price of $44 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 16m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $44, while a train costs an average of $172.
Distance: 169 miles (272 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$172 Average price | $44 Average price Cheapest | $83 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 16m Average total duration Fastest 3h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 9m Average total duration 5h 39m 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 $44.
This is compared to other travel options from Sunderland to Birmingham:
A bus is $128 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Sunderland to Birmingham costing on average $172.
The fastest way to travel from Sunderland to Birmingham is by train with an average journey time of 3h 46m.
Other travel options to Birmingham take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 39m.
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 train 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 $172 compared to roughly $83 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-89.64. The journey takes 3h 46m 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 today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G01151+TW049400 | Delayed 11:40 AM 12:00 PMSunderland station (SUN) | 4h04 | 4:04 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1 transfer | |
 C02030+G00758+ W84698+ C21541 | Delayed 11:58 AM 12:12 PMSunderland station (SUN) | 4h43 | 4:55 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 4 transfers | |
| G01156+P28684 | Delayed 12:40 PM 12:55 PMSunderland station (SUN) | 4h11 | 5:06 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1 transfer | |
| G01156+TW055900 | Delayed 12:40 PM 1:00 PMSunderland station (SUN) | 4h06 | 5:06 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1 transfer | |
| C02009+G00760+W84704+TW057300 | Delayed 12:58 PM 1:12 PMSunderland station (SUN) | 4h44 | 5:56 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 4 transfers | |
| G01162+P28694 | Delayed 1:41 PM 1:55 PMSunderland station (SUN) | 4h09 | 6:04 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1 transfer | |
| Sunday, September 20 | |||||
| W29869+TW024300 | 7:39 AM Sunderland station (SUN) | 4h28 | 12:07 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 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
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Sunderland to Birmingham trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as CrossCountry or London North Eastern Railway offer 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 Transpennine Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Sunderland 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 Transpennine Express 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?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or London North Eastern Railway to find the best option for your trip from Sunderland to Birmingham.
- 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 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 but you can travel from only $24 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 8m.
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 $24
Distance 169 miles (272 km) |
Average train duration 3h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $51 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 8m |
First train 5:50 AM |
Last train 7:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $24
Train companies: CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway, Transpennine Express from Sunderland to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway, Transpennine Express trains will get you between Sunderland and Birmingham from $24. 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 CrossCountry Duration
3h 11m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$51
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
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$111
London North Eastern Railway 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
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 pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transpennine Express Duration
4h 34m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$223
Transpennine Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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 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, while the average price is around $172.
The train from Sunderland to Birmingham takes 3h 8m 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 $24.
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 8m. 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 train 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. 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.
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 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
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.
