Is there a direct train from Forres to Birmingham?

No, you must change trains at least twice, usually in Inverness and Edinburgh.

How long is the drive?

The drive takes approximately 8 hours and 45 minutes depending on traffic.

You can fly from Inverness to Birmingham, but the total travel time including airport transfers is similar to the train.

What is the best way to travel?

The train is the most comfortable option for this long-distance journey.

Do I need a car in Birmingham?

No, the city center is highly walkable and well-served by buses and trams.

Forres

Birmingham

Train Driving

Forres to Birmingham

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Forres to Birmingham spans approximately 650 km. You will typically start at Forres station, taking a ScotRail service to Inverness or Aberdeen. From there, you connect to the LNER line heading south to Edinburgh or London. Finally, you transfer to an Avanti West Coast train at Birmingham International or New Street. This route traverses the scenic East Coast Main Line before cutting across the Midlands.

Total Distance: Driving distance 680 km, straight-line air distance 540 km.

Fastest Way

Train, taking approximately 7 hours 30 minutes including transfers.

Cheapest Way

Train, if booked as an Advance ticket, costs significantly less than fuel and parking combined.

Compare Forres to Birmingham Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	7 hours 30 mins	8 hours 45 mins
Avg Price	70 GBP - 180 GBP	120 GBP (fuel)
Operator	ScotRail, LNER, Avanti West Coast	N/A
Route	Forres to Inverness, then LNER to Edinburgh, then Avanti to Birmingham New Street.	A96 to A9, then M90, A1(M), and M6 motorway.
Tip	Book your tickets at least 12 weeks in advance to secure Advance single fares.	Expect heavy traffic on the M6 near Manchester and Birmingham during peak hours.

Travel Tips

Railcard
Purchase a Two Together or Network Railcard to save one-third on off-peak fares.
Station Layout
Birmingham New Street is a complex station; follow signs for the correct exit to reach the city center.
Luggage
Use the luggage storage facilities at New Street station if you arrive early for your hotel check-in.
Connectivity
Most LNER trains offer free Wi-Fi, but signal can be intermittent in the Scottish Highlands.
Booking
Use the Trainline app to monitor live platform changes and delay notifications.

Safety Tips

Station Safety
Keep your belongings in sight at all times in busy hubs like Edinburgh Waverley.
Night Travel
Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas of Birmingham late at night; use licensed taxis.
Emergency
Dial 999 for police, fire, or ambulance services in case of an emergency.
Road Safety
If driving, be aware of the Birmingham Clean Air Zone charges for non-compliant vehicles.