Travelling from Chester to Birmingham by train is quick, convenient and affordable. Whether you’re commuting for work, enjoying a shopping trip or meeting family and friends, our trains provide a fast and comfortable way to reach the centre of Birmingham.

With spacious seating, free onboard Wi-Fi and regular services through the day, you can relax and enjoy the journey without the stress of driving.

Buy your ticket online or on our app to find the lowest available fares, with no booking fees.

 

Key details: Trains from Chester to Birmingham

  • Duration: Fastest train is around 1h 17m (average 1h 30m)
  • Direct trains available? Yes
  • First train: From 04:20
  • Last train: From 21:36
  • Frequency: Around three trains per hour (about 54 per day)
  • Top stops: Crewe, Stafford, Wolverhampton
  • Departure station: Chester
  • Arrival station: Birmingham New Street
  • Amenities: Spacious seating, free onboard Wi-Fi
  • Ticket savings: Buy Advance tickets, use a Railcard or travel Off Peak for the best value.

 

Live departures and arrivals

 

Why travel by train from Chester to Birmingham?

Travelling by train gives you a comfortable, sustainable and stress-free way to reach the city. Some highlights of Birmingham include:

  • Bullring and Grand Central - one of the UK’s best shopping destinations, right next to Birmingham New Street
  • Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery - home to an extensive collection of art, history and artefacts
  • Brindleyplace and canals - enjoy waterside walks, cafes and restaurants in the heart of the city
  • Cadbury World - a fun day out for families and chocolate lovers, only a short ride from the city centre
  • Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum - packed with interactive exhibits, a planetarium and family-friendly activities

See our guide to visiting Birmingham for more itinerary inspiration.

 

Chester to Birmingham train times

Trains from Chester to Birmingham run regularly through the day, with early morning and evening services providing flexibility. Use our journey planner or app to check live departure times and buy your tickets early for the best value fares.

 

Top tips for buying your Chester to Birmingham train tickets

Save money on your journey with the following options:

  • Advance tickets* - Buy early for the lowest fares
  • Railcards - Save up to a third on your next trip
  • Anytime tickets - Flexible travel any time of day
  • Season tickets - Great value for frequent travellers

Why not use our app? It lets you see all our budget-friendly travel deals in one place.

*Advance tickets are our best value fares and railcard discounts can be used when buying them. We cannot guarantee the availability of Advance tickets as they are limited in number and only on sale up to 18:00 before the day you travel. We recommend buying early to avoid disappointment.

 

FAQs

How long is the train from Chester to Birmingham?

The fastest trains from Chester to Birmingham take just 1 hour 17 minutes, with average journey times of around 1 hour 30 minutes. Regular services run throughout the day, giving you plenty of choice when planning your trip.

Are there direct trains from Chester to Birmingham?

Yes, there are direct services from Chester to Birmingham New Street every day. These usually call at Crewe, Stafford and Wolverhampton.

How frequent are trains from Chester to Birmingham?

Trains run up to three times an hour between Chester and Birmingham, totalling around 54 services a day. So it’s easy to plan your journey around your schedule.

When is the first train from Chester to Birmingham?

The first train of the day usually departs Chester at 04:20 in the morning.

When is the last train from Chester to Birmingham?

The last train normally leaves Chester at 21:36 in the evening.