- Recommended
Ely Museum
Ely’s main museum tells the city’s story from archaeology to local life. Expect well-presented displays in a former gaol near the cathedral.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Ely
Showing times and prices for 25 Aug
Cheapest price
£117
Average price
£117
Fastest journey
2 h 23 m
Average duration
2 h 23 m
Trains per day
17
Distance
147 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Ely is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Ely will cost around £117 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £117.
Fast trains
Of the 17 trains that leave Birmingham for Ely every day 17 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 147 km distance in an average of 2 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 23 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 24 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
5:192h34Birmingham7:53Ely£1171One-way0 changes- 6:222h30Birmingham8:52Ely£1171One-way0 changes
- 7:222h30Birmingham9:52Ely£1171One-way0 changes
- 8:212h26Birmingham10:47Ely£1171One-way0 changes
- 9:222h23Birmingham11:45Ely£1171One-way0 changes
- 9:222h23Birmingham11:45Ely£1171One-way0 changes
- 10:222h23Birmingham12:45Ely£1171One-way0 changes
- 11:222h23Birmingham13:45Ely£1171One-way0 changes
- 13:222h24Birmingham15:46Ely£1171One-way0 changes
- 19:222h24Birmingham21:46Ely£1171One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Birmingham to Ely
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Ely among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £17, and a coach costs an average of £8.
Distance: 147 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£18 Average Price Cheapest | £19 Average Price |
2h 58m Average total duration Fastest 2h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 35m Average total duration 6h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Birmingham to Ely train times
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Ely trains for today, Monday 24 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:22 Birmingham | 2h23 | 11:45 Ely | 0 changesdirect | |
| Tuesday 25 August | |||||
| 5:19 Birmingham | 2h34 | 7:53 Ely | 0 changesdirect | |
| 6:22 Birmingham | 2h30 | 8:52 Ely | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Birmingham to Ely by train or coach
Compare train and coach prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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25 Aug
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Why should you book Birmingham to Ely trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country offer trains services from Birmingham to Ely.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Ely.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Ely.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Ely.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Ely.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Birmingham to Ely
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Birmingham to Ely run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £17 but you can travel from only £8 by coach.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 21:17. The fastest train covers the 147 km distance in 2h 26m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £8
Distance 147 km |
Average train duration 2h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 2h 26m |
First train 4:55 |
Last train 21:17 |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £8
Train companies: CrossCountry, Cross Country from Birmingham to Ely trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Birmingham and Ely from £8. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 26m
Cheapest Price
£17
CrossCountry frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 23m
Cheapest Price
£117
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Ely
Things to do in Ely
Discover the best of Ely — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ely trip today.
- Recommended
The Stained Glass Museum
Displays historic stained glass from Britain and Europe inside Ely Cathedral. It is an unusual collection that adds depth to a cathedral visit.
- Recommended
Oliver Cromwell's House
A focused museum on Oliver Cromwell’s life in Ely, set in his former family home. Good for Civil War context and period interiors.
- Recommended
Ely Riverside
A pleasant riverfront area with boats, open views and paths. It is ideal for a relaxed walk, photography and watching life on the Great Ouse.
- Recommended
Cathedral Green
The green around the cathedral offers classic views of Ely’s skyline. It is a peaceful place to walk, rest and appreciate the setting of the church.
- Recommended
Market Square
The central square hosts the regular market and many civic events. It is a useful starting point for exploring the compact historic centre.
- Gluten-free
Eel Stew
Eel stew is tied to the Fens and Ely’s marsh history. Freshwater eel was long a staple food here, slowly cooked into a rich, traditional dish.
- Gluten-free
Jellied Eels
Jellied eels are a classic East Anglian and London-area eel dish. They reflect the region’s historic eel trade and wetland fishing culture.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Eel
Smoked eel is a prized Fenland speciality. Oily local eel is cured and smoked, giving a rich flavour linked to Ely’s waterside heritage.
Poets House
Established city-centre restaurant serving modern British cooking and seasonal menus in a smart but welcoming setting.
The Fountain
Popular traditional pub known for hearty British food, cask ales and a friendly atmosphere close to Ely Cathedral.
Riverside Bar and Kitchen
Well-known waterside venue for British pub meals, drinks and outdoor seating overlooking the river and marina.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a small UK city. Accommodation and dining cost more than many towns, but local transport needs are low and day-to-day spending is manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for a budget meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis; cafés usually just small change.
FAQs: Birmingham to Ely train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Ely by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Ely, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Birmingham to Ely can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £17, while the average price tends to be around £18.
The train journey from Birmingham to Ely covers a distance of 147 km and takes approximately 2h 26m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Birmingham to Ely is 147 km.
The first train from Birmingham to Ely leaves at 4:55.
The last train from Birmingham to Ely departs at 21:17.
Trains from Birmingham to Ely run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Birmingham to Ely.
Yes, there is a direct train between Birmingham and Ely. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
To get from Birmingham to Ely, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Birmingham to Ely.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Ely is Birmingham New Street (BHM), and it arrives at Ely station (ELY).
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Ely is by coach, costing approximately £8.
Booking trains from Birmingham to Ely in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
To fully explore Ely, a visit of 1 to 2 days is typically sufficient. This allows time to visit key attractions such as Ely Cathedral, the Oliver Cromwell's House, and the Ely Museum, as well as enjoying the scenic riverside walks.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Ely.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Birmingham and Ely
Most Birmingham to Ely trains use the Birmingham New Street to Ely station pair. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Ely train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Birmingham
Arrival train stations in Ely
Birmingham New StreetStation Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham New Street from Birmingham city centre
Bus16 · 7m · £2 · every ~27 min
Birmingham New Street train station facilities and services
Birmingham New Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: All Bar One, Leon, Caffè Nero, Five Guys, Krispy Kreme, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Wasabi, Starbucks, Hotel Chocolat
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud. ATMs are aTM machines are located on the paid concourse.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00, Sun: 07:30 - 23:00. Information desks are in the middle of the station.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham New Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham New Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham New Street: Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center, Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station), Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham.
Birmingham InternationalBirmingham International station, Stationlink Road, National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, West Midlands, B40 1PA
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham International from Birmingham city centre
Birmingham International is 12 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Walsall - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Milton Keynes Central, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 9m · £4 · every ~8 min
BusX1 · 39m · £4 · every ~23 min
X1 · 40m · £4 · every ~23 min
17A · 53m · £4 · every ~19 min
Birmingham International train station facilities and services
Birmingham International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Birmingham International.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham International. ATMs are available at Birmingham International.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham International. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham International: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham International: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
LongbridgeLongbridge station, Longbridge Lane, Birmingham, West Midlands, B31 2TW
City-centre transport
Getting to Longbridge from Birmingham city centre
Longbridge is 10 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainFour Oaks - Redditch, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Bromsgrove, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Redditch, Birmingham New Street - Bromsgrove, Lichfield Trent Valley High Level - Longbridge, Birmingham New Street - Redditch · 21m · £4 · every ~8 min
Bus63 · 41m · £4 · every ~26 min
Longbridge train station facilities and services
Longbridge has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Longbridge.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Longbridge. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Longbridge: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Longbridge: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Longbridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: A Ticket Vending Machine is available in the Booking Hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Ely station do trains from Birmingham arrive at?
Trains from Birmingham to Ely arrive at Ely. Ely is 1 km from Ely city centre.
ElyEly station, Station Road, Ely, Cambridgeshire, CB7 4BS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Ely from Ely city centre
Bus112 · 9m · £4 · every ~3 min
Ely train station facilities and services
Ely has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Ely.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ely.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ely. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ely: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ely: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ely: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Birmingham
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Ely
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ely and Birmingham
Most popular train connections to Ely
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