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Edinburgh, Edinburgh to Birmingham, West Midlands from $40: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
to
Birmingham, United Kingdom

How to Get from Edinburgh to Birmingham: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$40 by busBest price
397.6 kmDistance
2h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Edinburgh to Birmingham with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
Avanti West Coast
Train
Average Duration
4h  17m
Estimated price
$139-368
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
8h  10m
Estimated price
$40-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 397.6 km
Duration: 2h 33m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  53m
Estimated price
$65-140
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
2h  59m
Estimated price
$78-209
Company
Various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
2h  33m
Estimated price
$88-236
Company
Various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
5h  16m
Estimated price
$88-329
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
4h  59m
Estimated price
$90-140
Company
Avanti West Coast
Train
Average Duration
4h  13m
Estimated price
$140-320
Company
CrossCountry
Train
Average Duration
5h  4m
Estimated price
$160-550

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $19 $20 $21 $22 $25 $24 $22
Train $57 $48 $55 $57 $74 $75 $131
Fly $48 $46 $51 $53 $48 $62 $120

Traveling From Edinburgh to Birmingham

The journey from Edinburgh to Birmingham showcases a fascinating contrast, where Edinburgh's historic charm and stunning landscapes meet Birmingham's vibrant urban culture and rich industrial heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Birmingham

Birmingham boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct character and charm.

Jewellery Quarter
• Home to over 100 jewelry shops
• Rich history and heritage of craftsmanship
Birmingham City Centre
• Bustling shopping and dining destinations
• Cultural attractions like museums and galleries
Digbeth
• Known for its vibrant street art
• Booming creative and nightlife scene

Best Times To Visit Birmingham's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Birmingham's top attractions.

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Visit on weekdays early in the morning to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Cadbury World
Consider visiting on a weekday in September for fewer crowds.
The Bullring Shopping Centre
Late afternoons during the week offer a more relaxed shopping experience.

Birmingham Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Birmingham experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters, making it a year-round destination. Spring and early autumn offer the best weather for outdoor activities, while occasional rain should be expected at any time of the year, influencing your trip plans.

Dining Recommendation

In Birmingham, don't miss the chance to try a traditional Balti, a dish that highlights the city's rich South Asian culinary influence, especially from the famous Balti Triangle. The vibrant atmosphere and aromatic spices provide a delightful contrast to Edinburgh's hearty Scottish fare, showcasing the diverse flavors that this bustling city has to offer.

Edinburgh - Birmingham operators

Explore transport companies operating between Edinburgh and Birmingham, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253
Website
https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/

Train from Edinburgh to Wolverhampton

Average Duration
3h 46m
Estimated price
$130-310

Train from Edinburgh to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
$160-370
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Edinburgh to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
5h 4m
Estimated price
$180-550
Contact phone
+44 345 600 1671
Website
https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/

Train from Edinburgh to Manchester Airport

Average Duration
3h 31m
Estimated price
$50-130
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Birmingham Summer Row- Great Charles Street

Average Duration
8h 10m
Estimated price
$40-60
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Manchester Airport Bus Station to Birmingham Brunel Street

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$13-19
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.easyjet.com

Plane from Edinburgh (EDI) to Birmingham (BHX)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$40-210
Website
https://www.ryanair.com

Plane from Edinburgh (EDI) to Birmingham (BHX)

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$35-280
Website
https://www.aerlingus.com

Plane from Edinburgh (EDI) to Birmingham (BHX)

Average Duration
3h 15m
Estimated price
$170-600

Edinburgh to Birmingham: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Edinburgh and Birmingham offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Edinburgh to Birmingham, spanning 288 miles of picturesque landscapes and historic landmarks along the way. 💷 Prices for the journey by car range from £71 to £111, offering flexibility for different travel budgets without compromising on the adventure. 🌟 Enjoy the approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes drive, immersing yourself in the diverse beauty of the British countryside as you head towards the vibrant city of Birmingham.
Average price
£70 - £109
🛤️ The journey by train from Edinburgh to Birmingham takes approximately 5 hours and 4 minutes. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride while admiring the scenic views along the way. 💸 Ticket prices for the Edinburgh to Birmingham train range from £110 to £290, offering travelers flexibility in choosing the fare that suits their budget and preferences. It's a hassle-free way to travel between these two vibrant cities in the United Kingdom.
Departure Point
Edinburgh station
Arrival Point
Wolverhampton station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Edinburgh to Birmingham, services vary by operator. If you travel with Avanti West Coast, you can enjoy a range of onboard catering options, including a cafe bar serving meals, snacks, and beverages. Alternatively, East Midlands Railway offers a trolley service with light refreshments and drinks, so be sure to check the operator’s website for meal availability.
• For seat options, Avanti West Coast provides First Class, Standard Class, and Standard Premium seating. First Class offers spacious, reclining seats with complimentary refreshments, while Standard Class has comfortable seating and the Standard Premium option allows for some extra legroom and better seating location. East Midlands Railway typically offers Standard Class and First Class, with the latter providing wider seats and access to additional services.
• When you arrive at Birmingham New Street Station, you can leave your luggage at the left luggage office located near the main concourse, allowing you to explore the city without your bags. Additionally, the station has clean bathroom facilities, but showers are not available. To reach the city center quickly, use the Birmingham Metro Line 1 or take Bus number 402, which will take you right into the heart of the city.
🛫 Flying from Edinburgh Airport to Birmingham Airport is a convenient option for travelers, with a direct flight taking just 1 hour and 10 minutes. Popular airlines such as Ryanair, Aer Lingus, and easyJet operate flights on this route. 👜 The journey between Edinburgh and Birmingham by plane lasts approximately 2 hours and 59 minutes, providing a quick and efficient way to travel between these two cities. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable flight experience during this relatively short trip. 💸 Flight prices between Birmingham and Edinburgh typically range from £62 to £165, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a fare that suits their budget and travel preferences. With various options available, flying remains a popular choice for those looking to reach Birmingham from Edinburgh swiftly.
Departure Point
Edinburgh Airport
Arrival Point
Birmingham Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Check in early to secure overhead bin space, especially since flights with Ryanair and easyJet can reach capacity quickly, impacting your carry-on luggage plans.
• Upon arrival at Birmingham Airport, head to the 'Birmingham International' train station located within the airport complex for quick access to city transport; trains to the city center run frequently and take about 10-15 minutes.
• Expect to pay around £30-£40 for a taxi from Birmingham Airport to the city center; alternatively, consider using ride-sharing apps or the local bus services for a more budget-friendly option.
🚌 Explore the scenic route from Edinburgh to Birmingham by bus with FlixBus. Departing from Edinburgh Bus Station, the journey takes approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes. 🚌 Tickets for the Edinburgh to Birmingham bus range from £32 to £47, providing an affordable and convenient travel option for those looking to experience both cities. Sit back, relax, and take in the sights as you journey from one vibrant destination to another.
Departure Point
Edinburgh Bus Station
Arrival Point
Birmingham Summer Row- Great Charles Street station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to book your bus tickets in advance, as prices range from £30 to £46; you can choose between FlixBus (global.flixbus.com) and National Express (nationalexpress.com) for different service options.
• Bring snacks and something to entertain yourself since the journey takes about 8 hours and 10 minutes; both FlixBus and National Express typically provide free Wi-Fi to help pass the time.
• Upon arriving at Birmingham Summer Row-Great Charles Street, familiarize yourself with the local transport system, as it connects to the main city via buses; check the transport schedules at networkwestmidlands.com for easy navigation.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Edinburgh to Birmingham.

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The distance between Edinburgh and Birmingham is 247 miles, with a road distance of 288.2 miles. Travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 5 hours to reach Birmingham from Edinburgh. Alternatively, taking a train to Glasgow and then flying to Birmingham can take around 3 hours and 53 minutes. Flying directly from Edinburgh to Birmingham takes about 3 hours and 5 minutes. Driving by car from Edinburgh to Birmingham takes approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes, while taking a bus can require around 9 hours and 40 minutes.
If cost-effectiveness is a priority, taking the bus from Edinburgh to Birmingham is the best option as it is cheaper, with prices ranging from £35-£51. However, it does take a longer travel time of 9h 40m. If time efficiency is more important, flying is the quickest option, taking only 3h 5m. However, flight prices can range from £27-£172, so it may not be the most cost-effective choice. Overall, it depends on your priorities and budget when choosing the best transportation option for your journey from Edinburgh to Birmingham.
The prices for a train ticket between Edinburgh and Birmingham range from £117 to £430. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Birmingham and Edinburgh can range from £35 to £51. These prices may vary depending on factors such as the time of travel, class of service, and booking in advance. It is always advisable to check with different transportation providers for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing information.
The most convenient way to get from Edinburgh to Birmingham without using public transportation is to drive. The distance between the two cities is about 288 miles, and it takes approximately 4 hours and 59 minutes to drive from Edinburgh to Birmingham. The driving route offers flexibility and allows you to travel at your own pace. Keep in mind that the prices for renting a car for this journey range from £70 to £109.
To travel from Edinburgh to Birmingham without a car, the best option is to take a train. The journey takes approximately 5 hours and tickets range from £117 to £430. An alternative option is to take a bus, which takes around 9 hours and 40 minutes and costs £35 to £51. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 5 minutes and costs between £27 and £172.
Yes, there is a direct link between Edinburgh and Birmingham. You can take a direct train from Edinburgh to Birmingham New Street, which operates hourly and takes approximately 5 hours. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service that departs from the Bus Station in Edinburgh and arrives at Birmingham Coach Station. The bus journey takes around 9 hours and 40 minutes and operates twice daily.
The flight between Edinburgh and Birmingham typically takes 1 hour and 10 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary from £27 to £167, depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best fares.
There are over 1554 hotels available in Birmingham offering various price ranges starting at £31. Some popular options include the Britannia Hotel Birmingham and Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre. The city has a wide range of options to suit different budgets and preferences, ensuring there is something for everyone's needs near Birmingham.

Trips from Edinburgh

Trips to Birmingham