With its own international airport and two major rail arteries, getting to and from Birmingham is simple.

Travel to and within the UK

If you choose to fly, arriving at Birmingham International Airport (BHX) is certainly the most direct way of getting to us. The airport is compact (only two terminals within easy walking distance of each other) and there are black cab taxi ranks available. Unless you're arriving at rush-hour, a trip into Birmingham city centre takes about 25 minutes and costs somewhere in the region of £25. Local buses and a rail link into the city centre are also available. A short ride on the free SkyTrain will take you to the rail station (Birmingham International), where you will be able to purchase tickets to Birmingham New Street station in the city centre. From there, a taxi rank is available to take you to your accommodation.

If it is more convenient for you to arrive into London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW), Manchester International (MAN) or any other major UK airport, you may find that your best option for travelling to Birmingham is by coach. It's possible to book outbound (to Birmingham) and return (back to the airport) travel online. Alternatively, most airports will have a National Express ticket office where you can book on the day, subject to availability. If there is a rail station at your airport, you may prefer to travel to Birmingham by rail. Travel and ticket information is available onine, or you can request assistance at the ticket office, provided you arrive during opening hours. Self-service ticket machines may also be available.

Birmingham International Airport (BHX)
London Heathrow International Airport (LHR) - London is about 120 miles from Birmingham, but transport links are excellent
London Gatwick Airport (LGW)
Manchester International Airport (MAN) - Manchester is about 75 miles from Birmingham
National Express - coach travel throughout the UK, including major airports
National Rail - rail travel throughout the UK. Mainline stations closest to the Conservatoire are Birmingham New Street and Birmingham Snow Hill

Travel within Birmingham

Once you’re here, the city’s manageable size - around one million people - makes it friendly and fast to get around. Within the city, local rail, tram and bus coverage is excellent. As with most inner city travel, the best advice is normally available from locals, but these websites should give you a good overview of the network of coverage within Birmingham and the surrounding area.

Travel West Midlands - local bus travel, including information on week-long bus passes
Centro - bus, local train and tram information covering Birmingham and the surrounding area