- Must visit
Folkestone Artworks
An outdoor public art collection spread across the town, featuring permanent works by contemporary artists in everyday settings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Folkestone
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 19 Sept
Cheapest price on 19 Sept
£53
Average ticket price on 19 Sept
£53
Fastest journey on 19 Sept
3 h 13 m
Average journey duration on 19 Sept
3 h 13 m
Trains on 19 Sept
1
Distance
263 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Folkestone is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Folkestone will cost around £53 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £53.
Fast trains
On Sat 19 Sept, we found 1 trains from Birmingham to Folkestone, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 263 km distance in an average of 3 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 13 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 13 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.
5:283h13Birmingham8:41Folkestone£531One-way0 changes
- 5:283h13Birmingham8:41Folkestone£531One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Birmingham to Folkestone
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Birmingham to Folkestone among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £28 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 19m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £28, while a train costs an average of £78.
Distance: 263 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£78 Average Price | £28 Average Price Cheapest | £53 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 19m Average total duration Fastest 2h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 45m Average total duration 6h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Birmingham to Folkestone is a coach with an average price of £28.
This is compared to other travel options from Birmingham to Folkestone:
A coach is £50 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Birmingham to Folkestone costing on average £78.
The fastest way to travel from Birmingham to Folkestone is by train with an average journey time of 2h 49m.
Other travel options to Folkestone take longer:
Coach takes on average 6h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham and Folkestone including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 42m sooner (2h 49m by train vs 3h 31m by car). Tickets start at around £78 compared to roughly £53 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Birmingham to Folkestone train times
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Folkestone trains for tomorrow, Saturday 19 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:28 Birmingham | 3h13 | 8:41 Folkestone | 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 Folkestone by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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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19 Sept
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Why should you book Birmingham to Folkestone trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Chiltern Railways offer trains services from Birmingham to Folkestone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Folkestone.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Chiltern Railways to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Folkestone.
- 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Folkestone.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Chiltern Railways to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Folkestone.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Folkestone.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Birmingham to Folkestone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Birmingham to Folkestone run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £48 but you can travel from only £41 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:38, the last at 21:21. The fastest train covers the 263 km distance in 2h 16m.
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 £41
Distance 263 km |
Average train duration 2h 49m |
Cheapest ticket price £48 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 16m |
First train 4:38 |
Last train 21:21 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 £41
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways from Birmingham to Folkestone trainsAvanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways trains will get you between Birmingham and Folkestone from £17. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£163
Avanti West Coast frequency
12 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Chiltern Railways
About
Chiltern Railways is a regional train company in the United Kingdom. Check the different ticket types for your next journey: Duo, Anytime, Season, Super Off Peak, Off Peak and Advance. It operates services from London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, Banbury, Aylesbury, High Wycombe, and Stratford-upon-Avon. It also runs services from Birmingham Moor Street to Stratford-upon-Avon. Chiltern Railways offers a range of train types, including InterCity 125, Class 165 and Class 168 trains. These trains are equipped with comfortable seating, air conditioning, power sockets, and free Wi-Fi. The company offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include a café bar, a shop, and a quiet coach. The most popular routes for Chiltern Railways are London Marylebone to Birmingham Snow Hill, Oxford, and High Wycombe.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Chiltern Railways Duration
3h 44m
Cheapest Chiltern Railways Price
£100
Chiltern Railways frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation for £3. Free for Advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs allowed with lead
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Folkestone
Things to do in Folkestone
Discover the best of Folkestone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Folkestone trip today.
- Recommended
Folkestone Museum
A local history museum in the old town covering Folkestone's past, from seaside life to wartime and archaeology.
- Recommended
Folkestone Arts
A contemporary art venue in a former church, showing changing exhibitions by British and international artists.
- Must visit
The Leas
A broad clifftop promenade with sea views, gardens and major public artworks, ideal for a classic Folkestone walk.
- Must visit
Folkestone Harbour Arm
A revitalised waterfront pier and promenade popular for strolling, sea air, events and views across the harbour.
- Recommended
Creative Quarter
A creative quarter of lanes and workshops with independent shops, murals and regular cultural events in the old centre.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Fresh Dover sole landed from the Channel, usually simply grilled or pan-fried. It is a Kent coast classic prized for its sweet, delicate flesh.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Whitstable or Kent oysters are widely eaten along this coast, served raw with lemon. They reflect the long shellfish tradition of the Kent shoreline.
Kent Fish Stew
A rich fish stew from Kentish fishing communities, made with mixed local fish and shellfish in a savoury broth. It showcases the catch from nearby waters.
Marleys
Well-known bistro and wine bar in the old high street area, offering seasonal small plates and a cosy, contemporary setting.
Hatch
Popular independent café and brunch spot on the Harbour Arm, serving coffee, breakfasts and casual plates in a lively seaside atmosphere.
The Smokehouse
Long-established seafood smokehouse and deli near the harbour, known for smoked fish, shellfish and simple coastal meals.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town: dining is manageable, but hotels in peak season can rise; local buses are reasonably priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares; cafés may use tip jars, but tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city centre
Folkestone Central -> Folkestone Town Centre
- Distance
- 850 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Stagecoach runs Folkestone's local buses. Buy tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app before boarding for quicker travel.
- Folkestone Central is outside the core shopping area; allow about 10 min on foot to Bouverie Place and the town centre.
FAQs: Birmingham to Folkestone train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Birmingham to Folkestone can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £48, while the average price tends to be around £78.
The train journey from Birmingham to Folkestone covers a distance of 263 km and takes approximately 2h 16m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Birmingham to Folkestone is 263 km.
The first train from Birmingham to Folkestone leaves at 4:38.
The last train from Birmingham to Folkestone departs at 21:21.
Trains from Birmingham to Folkestone run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Birmingham to Folkestone.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Birmingham to Folkestone.
To get from Birmingham to Folkestone, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Birmingham to Folkestone.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Folkestone is Birmingham New Street (BHM), and it arrives at Folkestone West (FKW).
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Folkestone is by coach, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Birmingham to Folkestone in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Birmingham to Folkestone offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, fields, and small towns, particularly as you pass through the picturesque areas of the Cotswolds and Kent.
A day trip from Birmingham to Folkestone is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 16m. Trains run 5 times per day over a distance of 263 km.
A two to three-day visit to Folkestone is ideal to explore its coastal attractions, enjoy the Creative Quarter, and take leisurely walks along the Harbour Arm.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Folkestone.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Birmingham and Folkestone
Most Birmingham to Folkestone trains use the Birmingham New Street to Folkestone West station pair, with some services arriving at Folkestone Central. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Folkestone 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 Folkestone
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 Moor StreetBirmingham Moor Street station, Queensway, Birmingham, West Midlands, B4 7UL
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham Moor Street from Birmingham city centre
TrainBirmingham Snow Hill - Whitlocks End, Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Birmingham Moor Street, Worcester Foregate Street - Birmingham Moor Street, Worcester Shrub Hill - Dorridge, Stourbridge Junction - Dorridge, Birmingham Snow Hill - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Leamington Spa, Birmingham Snow Hill - Leamington Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill - Leamington Spa, Kidderminster - Stratford-upon-Avon, Kidderminster - Whitlocks End, Stourbridge Junction - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Whitlocks End · 2m · £0.90 · every ~7 min
Bus16 · 13m · £2 · every ~27 min
TramMetro · 16m · every ~15 min
Birmingham Moor Street train station facilities and services
Birmingham Moor Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Birmingham Moor Street.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham Moor Street. ATMs are available at Birmingham Moor Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham Moor Street.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham Moor Street: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham Moor Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham Moor Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Access Category A. Step free access to all platforms, Accessible taxis: If you would like us to assist you in booking an accessible taxi for your onward journey please contact 03456 005 165, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Folkestone station do trains from Birmingham arrive at?
Trains from Birmingham to Folkestone most often arrive at Folkestone West. Some services arrive at Folkestone Central, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Folkestone arrival station.
Folkestone WestFolkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone West from Folkestone city centre
Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRamsgate - St Pancras International, Faversham - St Pancras International, Margate - Ashford International, Ramsgate - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - London Charing Cross, Ramsgate - Ashford International, Dover Priory - Ashford International, Folkestone Central - London Victoria, Dover Priory - London Cannon Street, Faversham - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - St Pancras International, Sandwich - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - London Charing Cross, Folkestone Central - Ashford International, Dover Priory - London Bridge, Ramsgate - London Bridge, Faversham - London Bridge, Dover Priory - Tonbridge, Deal - St Pancras International, Deal - Ashford International · 2m · £0.90 · every ~5 min
Bus10, 17, 71, 71A · 4m · £3 · every ~21 min
Folkestone West train station facilities and services
Folkestone West has practical services for this route, including 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 Folkestone West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. This station has a degree of step-free access to the platform, which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check details - Step Free access to Platform 1 via main entrance off Shorncliffe Road. Step free access to platform 2 via side entrance off Station Road. Step access between platforms via station subway. Step free Interchange between platforms via steep roads is in excess of 500 metres, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: by entrance to platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Folkestone CentralFolkestone Central station, Station Approach, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5HB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone Central from Folkestone city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stop outside of the station (exit station, walk down the slope and turn right. Bus stop is just beyond the bridge)
Folkestone Central train station facilities and services
Folkestone Central has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Step free access via lift or steep ramps from main entrance, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: In the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 24 Hours a Day Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Birmingham
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Folkestone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Folkestone and Birmingham
Most popular train connections to Folkestone
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