First train | 03:54 | |
---|---|---|
Last train | 21:32 | |
Departure station | Inverness | |
Arrival station | Birmingham New Street | |
Journey time | From 8h 9m | |
Distance | 358 miles (576 km) | |
Frequency | 13 trains per day | |
Changes | 1 change | |
Price | From $74.06 | |
Train operators | CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway, Lumo |
There are no direct trains running from Inverness to Birmingham. However, ScotRail runs services between Inverness and Edinburgh. From Edinburgh Waverley, there's a direct train route to Birmingham New Street operated by Avanti West Coast (formerly Virgin Trains).
ScotRail provides free WiFi on this route, First Class seating, and there are no restrictions on bikes. However, space is limited during peak hours. There's also an at-seat buffet cart service providing hot and cold drinks and light snacks.
For more information, visit our ScotRail page.
All Avanti West Coast (formerly Virgin Trains) trains on this line have power socket seats available on request, a buffet cart or dining carriage called The Foodbar, and a Quiet Coach. There's also free WiFi too!
From Inverness, you'll be taken through the scenic Scottish Highlands. Before arriving at Edinburgh you'll be able to enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Cairngorms National Park, the largest national park in the British Isles.
Once in Edinburgh, the crossing of the Forth Rail Bridge is a spectacular experience for all. The train from Edinburgh to Bristol takes you through the Lowlands of Scotland and provides scenic views of the British East Coast, taking in sights across Newcastle, York, Leeds, Sheffield and the Peak District before heading to Birmingham.
Birmingham is the second biggest city in the United Kingdom and has plenty to offer. Go on a boat trip on Birmingham´s canals, which were at the forefront of the industrial revolution in the 19th-century. These boat trips will take you along the City Heritage route, covering both the original James Brindley canal and Sir Thomas Telford’s. Alternatively, you can escape the city centre and head to the Botanical Gardens. Opened 200 years ago, Birmingham Botanical Gardens cover everything from deserts to tropical rainforests and can be a welcome change of pace.
Look out for Advance tickets – they usually come out up to 12 weeks before the departure date and can be cheaper than buying on the day. If you’re here a tad early, sign up for our Advance ticket alert today to get notified when your tickets are released.
If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for Inverness to Birmingham New Street is right for you.
National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.
Download our app to find split tickets — courtesy of SplitSave, our handy feature which 'splits' your train tickets where possible to find you a better deal. Learn more about the clever tech behind split tickets, and how to spot SplitSave discounts in our app.
For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.