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Trip Summary
There are 8 daily trains from Edinburgh to Birmingham. Traveling by train from Edinburgh to Birmingham usually takes around 4 hours and 59 minutes, but the fastest CrossCountry train can make the trip in 4 hours and 56 minutes.
| Distance | 245 mi (395 km) |
| Fastest train | 4h 56m |
| Lowest price | €99.34 |
| Trains per day | 8 |
| Most frequent service | CrossCountry |
| Train lines | 1 |
Which train should you take from Edinburgh to Birmingham?
CrossCountry is the one and only train line which connects Edinburgh to Birmingham. However, there are 8 trains per day to choose from.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| CrossCountry | 8 | 4h 59m | €129.61 |
CrossCountry operates an extensive rail network in the U.K., centered in Birmingham. In standard class, passengers enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard restrooms. Trains also contain a small café or a trolley that passes through the carriages. An upgrade to first-class gives passengers more legroom and complimentary food. The journey from Edinburgh to Birmingham usually takes about 4 hours and 59 minutes on a CrossCountry train. There are 8 trips on this route every day, and 8 daily trips on weekends.
Frequently Asked Questions
The distance between Edinburgh and Birmingham is approximately 245 miles, or 395 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 4 hours and 59 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 4 hours and 56 minutes.
Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Monday tends to be the busiest day of the week with travelers taking trains from Edinburgh to Birmingham. Ticket price also tend to be more expensive on Monday than other days. If you are hoping to have more room on the train and even save some change check out travel options on Monday instead, as less people travel then and deals are more likely to be found.
The earliest train departs Edinburgh at 09:00 while the last train of the day leaves at 16:00. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
There are 8 daily scheduled trains, all of which are direct trains that take you the entire way from Edinburgh to Birmingham.
You can also take a train for your return trip from Birmingham to Edinburgh.
City Information
Edinburgh
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
Image credit: Unsplash
As Scotland's capital, Edinburgh and its people are famed throughout history for their contribution to philosophy, literature, science, and industry, among many other areas. This incredibly diverse city promises to provide attractions and entertainment for people of all ages, budgets, and interests. Edinburgh is even ranked as the #6 city with the most historic sites per capita in Europe, and the #1 outside of Italy!
For those looking for outdoor adventure, take a walk up Arthur's Seat, one of four hill forts that date back to over 2,000 years ago. The walk to the top will allow you to embrace some of Scotland's most beautiful landscapes and wildlife, and you'll be rewarded with a dramatic view of Edinburgh at the top.
On rainy days, visit the National Museum of Scotland, where each floor provides information on several fascinating eras of Scotland's history. A trip down the Royal Mile will satisfy all your tartan and souvenir needs, while the world-famous Underground Ghost Tour will give you an entirely different view of this seemingly peaceful, quaint city.
If your trip falls during the holiday season, the Edinburgh Christmas Market is guaranteed to give you the festive feeling, while world-renowned Hogmanay celebrations will ensure that you ring in the New Year with a bang.
Edinburgh is easily accessible via train, plane, and bus. Edinburgh Airport provides global access to the city, while rail services connect the city to many other major towns and cities across the UK. In addition, numerous bus companies travel to and from Edinburgh, meaning that no matter your preferred mode of transport, the city is always within reach.
Birmingham
As the second-largest city in the UK, Birmingham effortlessly blends the city’s quaint vibe with modern-day high-rises. One of the top local attractions is St. Martin in the Bull Ring, the original parish church of Birmingham. Featuring remarkable Gothic Revival architecture standing in stark contrast with the futuristic-looking shopping centers, the church is a great spot for travelers looking for a bit of respite. As you stroll around the city, don’t forget to visit the famous Cadbury World, which details the long history of the brand, as well as all the products it produces. For culturally-inclined activities, head to the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, which offers over 40 exhibits.
If you wish to try out authentic Indian dishes with a local twist, head over to Pushkar. For those who wish to enjoy a more upscale dining experience, Bank offers a chic menu in an elegant setting.
The principal rail station is Birmingham New Street Station, which is the busiest train station in the UK. The Birmingham Coach Station offers coach services by National Express as far as London and Dublin. The city’s main airport is the Birmingham Airport, which is located 6 miles east of the city center.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Edinburgh?
Main departure station: Edinburgh Waverley Station
There is one train station in Edinburgh.
All train stations in Edinburgh:
Edinburgh Waverley Station
Where is the train station in Birmingham?
Main arrival station: Birmingham New St
Birmingham has one train station.
Train stations in Birmingham:
Birmingham New St
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