Are you looking for ways how to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon in Warwickshire, UK? I live in the UK for more than a decade now and have been to Stratford-upon-Avon countless times. I’m here to share with you the possible ways how you can visit this famous Shakespearean town.
You can reach Stratford-upon-Avon from Birmingham by train, car, narrow boat or steam train. The road distance between Birmingham and Stratford-upon-Avon is 62.6 kilometres or 38.9 miles while the direct distance is 35.4 kilometres or 22 miles. It takes about 46 minutes to travel this distance by car.
Stratford-upon-Avon is an unassuming town in the county of Warwickshire most known for being Shakespeare’s birthplace. Stratford is near Birmingham, so it makes for a good day trip destination from there.
Whether you’re in a hurry to get to Stratford or you have a lot of time to spend on slow travel, you’ll definitely find a mode of transport that best suits your timeline.
How to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon
OPTION 1: How to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon by Train
- Travel Duration: about 40 minutes
- Travel Fare: from £12
It is easy to reach Stratford-upon-Avon from Birmingham via public transport, thanks to the location’s train connection. This is a cost-efficient way to travel between the two destinations.
How does it go? The train departs from Birmingham Moor Street and then arrives at Stratford-upon-Avon station.
Here’s how it looks like to travel by train from Birmingham:
Train from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon
| ARRIVAL | DEPARTURE | DURATION | FARE | |
| Earliest trip | 6:14 am | 6:55 am | 41 minutes | £12 |
| Latest trip | 10:31 pm | 11:23 pm | 52 minutes | £12 |
| Fastest trip | 1:01 pm | 1:41 pm | 40 minutes | £12 |
West Midlands Railway and Chiltern Railways service the Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon train route. West Midlands offer a direct ride while Chiltern will require you to transfer trains in Hatton Station.
In order to get the best seats and deals, make sure to book in advance at Omio. Securing a ticket nowadays is made easier by transport websites dedicated to showing you travel details from different operators all on one page.
BEST TRAIN DEALS!
If you are looking to travel by train for your upcoming trip to the UK, I recommend checking Omio. They are a one-stop shop for trains and other transportation that suit your budget and schedule.
OPTION 2: How to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon by Car
- Travel Duration: about 46 minutes
- Travel Fare: from £73.33
If you are travelling as a group or if you would simply like to have the vehicle to yourself, you can do so by bringing a private vehicle or getting a rental car to drive to Stratford-upon-Avon from Birmingham.
The drive is relatively short, and if this is not your first time driving in the UK, for sure it will be a breeze. If it is, then you might want to check out my personal UK driving tips for first-time drivers on this side of the globe.
To drive from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon, you have to take the M42 and M40. In less than an hour, as long as traffic is bearable, you will arrive at your destination.
If you are more inclined to rent a car than take public transport you can check out Discover Cars to get the best quote from leading rental car companies. If you wish to make your drive even more worthwhile, stretch out your itinerary and go to nearby destinations.
BEST CAR RENTAL DEALS!
If you are planning to book a car rental for your upcoming trip. I recommend searching for the best car rental deals with Discover Cars. They have various options that suit your budget.
OPTION 3: How to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon by Narrowboat
- Travel Duration: about 10 days
- Travel Fare: varies
While day one is dedicated primarily to exploring Birmingham, day two will have you riding a train from Birmingham up to the Alvechurch Marina where you will be taught some essential training on how to travel by narrowboat including the navigation of locks.
Is this your first time travelling in the UK through canals? I have written an informative article about this mode of transportation that’s well-loved by the locals.
Along the way, you’ll pass through scenic spots and food finds. Don’t think twice about stopping! Travelling by narrowboat is indeed a slow-paced yet jam-packed one. Keep in mind, though, that there need to be at least two people in order to travel by narrowboat.
OPTION 4: How to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon by Steam Train
- Travel Duration: about 1 hour
- Travel Fare: from £35
If you are travelling on a Sunday between February and October, you might want to go from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon via steam train. The Shakespeare Express is a vintage train that travels along the Shakespeare Line, coming from Birmingham Snow Hill and stopping at Henley in Arden.
There are two schedules in a day – one in the morning and another in the afternoon. Food is served during the trip, and sometimes there is onboard entertainment such as the Murder on The Shakespeare Express and the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party.
Here are the two different classes of experience which you can book:
| TYPE | INCLUSIONS | TICKET FARE |
| Pullman Class | – First class carriage – Food and drinks included | – Adult Seat from £85 – Child Seat from £50 – Table for Two from £190 |
| Tourist Class | Traditional carriage | – Adult Seat from £35 – Child Seat from £15 |
HERE ARE SOME SUGGESTED TOURS FROM GET YOUR GUIDE:
More About Stratford-upon-Avon
- Aside from Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon is also a popular day trip destination from London. You can travel between both destinations via coach, train, car and tour.
- I listed down all the best activities to do in Stratford-upon-Avon, including a visit to Shakespeare’s birthplace and breakfast at The Fourteas!
- Stratford-upon-Avon is undeniably one of the most beautiful Cotswold villages to tour in the UK.
- A list of the best places to visit in the UK won’t be complete without Stratford-upon-Avon on it!
- Stratford-upon-Avon is Warwickshire’s pride. It is a must to visit the famous Shakespaw Cat Café when in this part of the UK.
- Stratford-upon-Avon is a day trip away from Birmingham.
Map of Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, UK:
HOW TO USE THIS MAP TO BOOK YOUR RESERVATIONS:
CLICK the YELLOW MARKER OR THE DROP DOWN MENU next to the title to see the various things to do and point of interest in this guide and CHOOSE your desired preview of the map, whether HOTELS & RENTALS, EXPERIENCES, RESTAURANTS OR OTHERS. Feel free to use the filters, number of guests, and your preferred dates. You can see more information about the different attractions (the GREEN MARKERS) when you click the icons, as well as finding your perfect accommodation that will suit your budget and location. You could also book your guided tours and restaurants using the map.
FAQs on How to Get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon
What stations go to Stratford-upon-Avon?
Birmingham New Street and London Marylebone Stations go to Stratford-upon-Avon.
What is the closest station to Stratford-upon-Avon?
The closest train station to Stratford-upon-Avon is the Stratford-upon-Avon station.
What trainline is Stratford-upon-Avon on?
Stratford-upon-Avon is on the North Warwickshire Line and Leamington-Stratford Line.
Is there a direct train from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon?
Yes, there is a direct train from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon. The direct train departs from Birmingham Moor Street and arrives at Stratford-upon-Avon station.
Is there a steam train in Stratford-upon-Avon?
Yes, the Shakespeare Express is a vintage steam train that travels from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon.
How long does a bus to Stratford-upon-Avon from Birmingham take?
There is no bus to Stratford-upon-Avon that comes from Birmingham.
Is a day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon from Birmingham possible?
Yes, a day trip to Stratford-upon-Avon from Birmingham is made possible by convenient transport options such as taking the train or getting a rental car.
Can I travel from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon by car?
Yes, you can travel from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon by car. The drive is relatively short and should not take you more than an hour.
What is the cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon?
The cheapest way to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon is by train. The one-way train fare only costs £12.
What is the fastest way to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon?
The fastest way to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon is by train. A direct train ride gets you there in as fast as 40 minutes.
What is the best way to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon?
The best way to get from Birmingham to Stratford-upon-Avon is by train. This option is cost-efficient, being both the least expensive and the fastest way to get there. If you have the luxury of time, I highly suggest considering the narrow boat option for more adventures ahead!
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for my UK trip?
YES – If you’re traveling to the UK, securing travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is essential for your peace of mind; I recommend Safety Wing Travel Insurance, which is renowned for its reliability. (READ MORE)
💧 Can I drink tap water in the UK?
YES – You can confidently drink tap water in the UK—just run it for a bit first—and use a Hydro Flask travel bottle, it is a great eco-friendly companion to keep you hydrated while touring the UK attractions.
🚗 Is it safe to rent a car in the UK?
YES – Renting a car in the UK is one of the best ways to see the country. I recommend Discover Cars, to check for the best car rental deals that suit your budget. See my UK driving tips here.
📲 Will my phone work in the UK?
POSSIBLY. Always check with your home mobile provider. If it won’t work or is too expensive, I recommend using Airlo E-Sim for data packages to stay connected online.
🔌 What adapter should I use in the UK?
TYPE G – In the UK, you’ll need a type G plug travel adapter with three rectangular pins arranged in a triangle to power your devices, and the electrical system runs on a 230V supply voltage at 50Hz. (READ MORE)
✈️ What is the best site to buy UK flights?
For finding affordable UK flights, I recommend using Skyscanner. You can always compare the prices that suit your budget.
🛏️ What is the best way to book accommodations in the UK?
My go-to for UK accommodations is Booking.com. I recommend to always check hotel reviews on TripAdvisor.
💷 What currency do I need for my UK trip?
Sterling Pounds – I suggest getting a Wise Travel Card for your hassle-free forex and contactless spending while in the UK. (READ MORE)
🧳 What do I pack for the UK trip?
Depending on the season – You can check my article about the best time to visit the UK.
🛂 Do I need a visa for the UK?
Likely Not – US, Canada, AU, NZ, and EU passport holders do not need a visit visa to the UK. If ever you need one, read more on how to apply for a UK visit visa. Visit iVisa.com to help you with your visa travel documentation needs.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Everything Zany
Travel BlogEverything Zany Travel Blog exploring the UK and beyond. Sharing travel guides, tips, history, and culture. Our travel media brand is founded by travel and hotel industry expert – Ryazan Tristram, a Dual Citizen (British–Filipina) based in Birmingham, UK. Everything Zany is a reputable and award-winning travel blog. Our work and contributions have been featured in the Huffington Post, CNBC, Discovery Channel, GMA, Readers Digest, and Lonely Planet. Our mission is to build a great travel community and resource of travel tips, visas, and travel guides for travelers. Join us as we travel around the UK and beyond with a mission to share the best of the world.