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Trains from Cardiff Central to
Birmingham New Street

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Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street by train

A train trip from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street takes about 2hrs 23 mins on average, covering roughly 88 miles (141 kilometres). With around 44 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £13.10, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street Key Stats

Arrival Station

Birmingham New Street

Departure Station

Cardiff Central

Frequency

44trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs

Changes

016 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:33 / 00:45

Distance

88miles
(141 km)

5 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£13.10

Travelling from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street by Train

Hop on a Train from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 2hrs 23 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Birmingham New Street), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs. With roughly 44 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 88-mile (141 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Transport for Wales, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, GWR, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £13.10 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Birmingham New Street!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street

Curious about your trip from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street by train?

The travel time between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 23 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs.

What's the fastest journey time between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street is 2hrs.

How much does the train from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street cost?

Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street can start from as little as £13.10 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 44 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:33, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:45.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street?

First class tickets on trains between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street?

Amenities on trains between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Birmingham New Street, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street?

Yes! There are usually around 16 direct services per day from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street

What train companies run services from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street?

Transport for Wales, West Midlands Trains, CrossCountry and GWR are the main train operating companies running services between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Cardiff Central and Birmingham New Street, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:54 Cardiff Central07:55 Birmingham New Street1 changeBristol Parkway
2 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
06:24 Cardiff Central08:19 Birmingham New Street1 changeBristol Parkway
1 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
06:39 Cardiff Central08:45 Birmingham New StreetDirect2 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
06:51 Cardiff Central08:55 Birmingham New Street1 changeBristol Parkway
2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
07:23 Cardiff Central09:20 Birmingham New Street1 changeBristol Parkway
1 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
07:45 Cardiff Central09:45 Birmingham New StreetDirect2 hrs Get Tickets
07:49 Cardiff Central09:55 Birmingham New Street1 changeBristol Parkway
2 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
08:18 Cardiff Central10:24 Birmingham New Street1 changeBristol Parkway
2 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
08:45 Cardiff Central10:45 Birmingham New StreetDirect2 hrs Get Tickets
09:19 Cardiff Central11:18 Birmingham New Street1 changeBristol Parkway
1 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
09:45 Cardiff Central11:49 Birmingham New StreetDirect2 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
09:49 Cardiff Central11:55 Birmingham New Street1 changeBristol Parkway
2 hrs 6 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street start from as little as £13.10

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street start from £73.50 one way, or £74.80 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street are available for £76.80 one way, or £122.70 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street is £108.20 & the average saving on this route is £22.56!

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Cardiff Central Station

Discover Cardiff Central Train Station

Cardiff Central train station is not just a hub of connectivity but a vibrant part of the city's fabric. Nestled in the heart of Cardiff, the station serves as a gateway to a rich tapestry of Welsh culture and beyond, offering excellent transport links to many popular destinations. Whether you're a local commuter, a tourist exploring Wales, or a business traveler, Cardiff Central provides the amenities and services to ensure your journey is comfortable and convenient.

Facilities and Amenities

Cardiff Central station is designed with the comfort of travelers in mind. With ticket office hours stretching from early morning until late at night, and the presence of both regular and accessible ticket machines, purchasing and collecting tickets is straightforward. If you've opted to buy your tickets online, you can conveniently collect them from the ticket machines.

The station is fully accessible with step-free access across all platforms, making travel simple for everyone, including those with mobility issues. You'll also find helpful staff available almost 24/7 to assist with any inquiries. With multiple waiting rooms open daily from 6 am to 10 pm, you can relax comfortably while awaiting your train. And if you're looking to pass the time, Cardiff Central boasts shops like WHSmith, and various vending machines for hot and cold refreshments.

Connectivity and Travel Links

This bustling station is well-connected to local and regional transport services. You can access the taxi ranks located on Saunders Road or take advantage of the newly opened Cardiff Bus Interchange at Central Square, which enhances your options for onward journey convenience. For those needing to catch a flight, the T9 Airport Express coach service is just a stone's throw away, offering a direct link to Cardiff Airport in about 40 minutes. Discover the flexibility of limitless travel within Cardiff when you purchase a Cardiff PlusBus ticket alongside your train ticket!

Popular Destinations

Cardiff Central serves as a perfect launch point for scenic and practical rail journeys. Head to London Paddington for a day in the capital, or perhaps enjoy a coastal trip to Swansea. For those seeking closer adventures, you might consider hopping on a train to Newport or the historic city of Bath Spa.

In Conclusion

Cardiff Central train station stands as a pillar of convenience and connectivity in Wales. Whether you're buying a ticket on-site or collecting one pre-purchased online, embarking on a quick local trip or a grand voyage to the bustling cityscape of London, Cardiff Central has got you covered. With its strategic location, comprehensive facilities, and countless onward travel possibilities, your journey begins right here. Dive into the efficiency and ease offered by Cardiff Central and let it be the starting point for your next travel adventure.

Everything you need to know about Birmingham New Street Station

Welcome to Birmingham New Street Station

In the heart of Birmingham lies one of the UK’s most bustling and well-connected train stations – Birmingham New Street. Known for its impressive architecture following extensive renovation, it serves as a central hub for commuters, tourists, and locals alike. Whether you're traveling for business or leisure, New Street Station offers an array of facilities and amenities to make your journey as smooth as possible.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Birmingham New Street is open and ready to cater to all of your travel needs. The ticket office operates extensive hours, opening from 5:15 AM to 11 PM on weekdays and 8 AM to 11 PM on Sundays, ensuring you can purchase or collect your tickets at a time that suits you. Remember to bring your online purchase collection codes to use the available ticket machines. Accessibility is a top priority, with step-free access throughout the station, elevators and escalators serving all platforms, and dedicated staff available for assistance. However, note that accessible ticket machines are not available.

If you're in need of some refreshments or a shopping fix, you’re in luck. With a variety of food and drink outlets ranging from Costa Coffee to M&S Food and The Pasty Shop, you won't go hungry. For those looking to stay connected, public Wi-Fi is available across the station, making it easy for you to work or catch up on your favorite shows while waiting. There's also CCTV coverage providing enhanced security throughout the premise.

Travel tip: Check out the First-Class Lounge for a more comfortable waiting experience if you hold the appropriate ticket.

Onward Travel Connections

Ready to explore beyond Birmingham? New Street's strategic location offers myriad transport links to let you do just that. Taxis can be picked up from Navigation Street, while nearby bus stops on Smallbrook Queensway and Hill Street provide plentiful options to get you where you need to go. Most buses are wheelchair accessible, ensuring a seamless journey for everyone. Additionally, the Midland Metro tram network, easily accessible from the station, offers a swift way to get around the city.

If flying's on your itinerary, there's a regular train service to Birmingham International Airport, just a brief 10-15 minute ride away. With these connections, whether taking a quick hop to the airport or exploring local sites, onward travel from Birmingham New Street Station is straightforward and convenient.

Outbound Journeys Await

Looking to continue your journey from Birmingham New Street to exciting destinations? Popular spots such as London Euston, Coventry, and Manchester Piccadilly are just a train ride away. For closer adventures, visit Bournville to tour the famous Cadbury chocolate factory or head over to University (Birmingham) to explore its beautiful campus.

Consider adding destinations like Birmingham International, Leicester, or Wolverhampton to your list for more travel inspirations.

Conclusion: Embark on Your Journey with Ease

Birmingham New Street Station acts not only as a gateway to Birmingham but also as a springboard to the rest of the UK. Whether you’re planning a daily commute, a weekend getaway, or the start of a grand adventure, this station has the facilities and connections to get you there effortlessly. Dive into the rich cultural tapestry and vibrant energy of Birmingham, or venture further afield knowing you've got a reliable home base at Birmingham New Street. Happy travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Cardiff Central