Trains to Birmingham

What to do, how to get there and how to get home with Avanti West Coast.

Now the second biggest city in the United Kingdom, Birmingham has seen enormous growth from a once modest Saxon village. The city has seen many innovations in its history – the Watt Steam Engine was developed in Birmingham, a major player in increasing productivity all over the world during the industrial revolution. But no less impressive is that same Birmingham spirit that brought us the bicycle bell, whistle and postage stamp.

Birmingham suffered significant bomb damage during World War II but major redevelopments were made during the 50s-60s, which saw the construction of the shopping centre The Bullring, which is now an iconic part of Birmingham's cultural makeup.

But Birmingham is so much more than the Bullring. Opera, ballet and musical fans flock to the Hippodrome, while comedy lovers hit venues on Broad Street, and art buffs head over to get their fix at the Birmingham East Side projects.

Perhaps considered a sleeping giant of tourist destinations in the UK, Birmingham has plenty to offer for day trips, a last-minute weekend away and for time away as a family. Book direct

Discover more in Birmingham

Bustling streets filled with independent shops, stylish restaurants serving next level cuisine, chic canal-side venues, boutique bars to suit any style and heaps of history – there’s a surprise around every corner. Packed full of attractions, while keeping its own unique personality, the city is the very heart of the West Midlands.

A diverse cultural centre, Birmingham is world-famous for its incredible cuisine, from street food to five-star dining. The city is home to five Michelin starred restaurants, more than any city outside of the capital. Not to forget the beloved Balti which was invented right here – visit the Balti Triangle where chefs still use the traditional one-pot method of cooking today! Fuelled up, prepare to explore a huge array of family attractions, theatres, galleries, shopping for every style, stunning gardens, museums and much, much more.

Popular Avanti West Coast trains to Birmingham


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Things to do in Birmingham

Look around and you’ll see history on every street. Explore the famous Jewellery Quarter, where almost half of the UK’s jewellery is still made today and ramble along back streets stopped in time, or visit the Back to Backs to see how people lived in the height of the Industrial Revolution. At Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery there will be a series of pop-up displays and live events that bring a different feel to the historic building for 2022, or simply stroll along the scenic canals to see Birmingham at its very best. If culture is your thing, visit the Symphony Hall for some wonderful music or the Birmingham Hippodrome – the busiest theatre outside of the West End – for a play. Any production by Birmingham Royal Ballet is sure to transport you with its romance and talent.

Birmingham Bullring aerial view

Birmingham is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you're after head-turning chic or eye-catching value, it’s all here. We’re home to the famous Bullring & Grand Central, the luxurious Mailbox Birmingham and the world’s biggest Primark!

Black country living museum. Old street with car driving down.

Be amazed by the number of attractions in Birmingham. We've got world-class museums and galleries to explore and rewarding culture and heritage to discover. How about a visit to our own chocolate factory, Cadbury World ,where the world-famous chocolate is made, a thrilling adventure in a Land Rover off-road driving experience or a visit to the Black Country Living Museum, or takes the family to LEGOLAND Discovery Centre or the National SEA LIFE Centre can you pack it all in?

Birmingham is the ideal place to escape the everyday with family attractions, theatres, galleries, endless shopping and museums all within its bounds. What’s more, there are plenty of gardens and green spaces within the centre, but travel just 15 minutes out of the city and you’ll be pulling on your walking boots ready to explore the great outdoors – be sure to visit Sutton Park, one of the largest urban parks in Europe.

Looking for adventure in Birmingham? You can see all our 2 for 1 offers here.

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Ways to save

Heading to Birmingham? We want to ensure all our customers get the best possible value when they travel with us. Booking in advance means we can offer better deals, and if you travel in a group – yep, you guessed it – we can offer discounts on that, too. Like all train journeys, there are peak times and off-peak times and this will affect the deal you find. There’s a full run-down of ​​ways to save here on our website, so pop over and see the great deals on train travel.

If you’re a frequent traveller, you might already have a Railcard, which could save you up to a third on your ticket. There are loads of options available. If you’re a young adult, you’ll be eligible for the 16–25 Railcard. The other side of your 20s? Check out the 26–30 Railcard. If you’re in a couple, or always have the same travel buddy, take a look at the Two Together Railcard. There’s even a Railcard for family and friends so you can enjoy great days out together.

None of the above suit you? Then take a look at the full list of Railcards ​available. Some are even digital, allowing you to store it on your phone with the Avanti West Coast app​, so it’s there whenever you want to take a train to Birmingham.

Still looking for ways to save on train tickets? Book direct.

When you book directly with Avanti West Coast, there’s a ​Price Promise​ – if you find the same service cheaper anywhere else, we’ll refund the difference. Plus, we won’t charge you a penny on booking fees.