We aim to make fast train travel an easier, more pleasurable, more efficient and more affordable experience. To show you how, here are the answers to the questions we’re most frequently asked.
When did Mainline launch?
Our new, fast timetable began on Monday 5th September.
Where do Mainline trains stop?
Our fastest Mainline trains travel at peak times* from Birmingham Moor Street, via Solihull and Warwick Parkway only, before travelling non-stop to London Marylebone.
Every hour, a fast Mainline train call at Birmingham Moor Street, Solihull, Warwick Parkway, Leamington Spa, Banbury and London Marylebone.
Also every hour, an additional Mainline train depart from Birmingham Snow Hill and stop at Birmingham Moor Street, Solihull, Dorridge, Warwick Parkway, Warwick, Leamington Spa, Banbury, Bicester North, High Wycombe and London Marylebone..
How much faster are Mainline trains?
The new service is up to 20% faster than before. The fastest journey time from Birmingham to London will be just 90 mins, and the quickest journey from Warwick Parkway will be 1hr 10 mins.
How much do Mainline tickets cost?
To make life easier for our passengers, just three simple fares will be available for all stations between Birmingham and Warwick Parkway for travel to/from London:
Anytime return £85 – travel on any train, anytime.
Off Peak £50 – travel on any train, except on weekday morning* trains towards London.
Super Off Peak £25 – travel on any train, except on weekday morning trains towards London and evening peak* time trains travelling from London.
What is the Business Zone, and what are the benefits?
In the Business Zone we have created the ideal working environment. You can enjoy larger tables and seats that are not only wider, but also have more leg room than any other train service between Birmingham and London.
Passengers in the Business Zone are also attended to by a dedicated train host who can provide an at-seat catering service that includes freshly cooked bacon rolls and free tea or coffee.
All trains with a Business Zone offer free Wi-Fi and you can reserve specific seats. Business Zone access can be purchased with your ticket or dependant on availability you are welcome to upgrade onboard.
How much do Business Zone tickets cost?
A £20 supplement is required per journey to travel in the Business Zone. Business Zone is not first class, and any standard class ticket is valid with a Business Zone supplement, which can be purchased with your ticket (if booking at a station) or simply upgraded onboard.
On the 0837 train from London to Birmingham and the 1555 service from Birmingham to London, the Business Zone supplement will be just £10.
*Morning peak: Arriving in London before 1000 (1130: Super off-peak fares). Evening peak: Departing London between 1600 and 1900
Business Zone is only available on our Silver trains.
What catering facilities are available?
All Mainline trains leaving Birmingham before midday on weekdays offer a wide selection of drinks and snacks. All trains leaving London in the morning also feature a catering service, as do our Silver train services leaving London at 1650 and 1807 and leaving Birmingham at 1555.
On all morning trains we serve freshly cooked (never microwaved!) bacon rolls, and on our Silver trains these are prepared in our on-board kitchen.
Is Wi-Fi available?
Free Wi-Fi is available in all carriages of Mainline trains. When on board 'Chiltern WiFi' will appear as available on your device. You'll just need to register the first time and then log in with your email address for all future use.
How well is Marylebone connected within central London?
London Marylebone station is in the heart of London, within a mile of both London Euston and London Paddington and within walking distance of Oxford Street.
As well as its own station on the Bakerloo line, Marylebone Station is close to major bus routes, has its own taxi rank and is just a 5 minute walk from Baker Street. Served by the Jubilee, Bakerloo, Circle, Hammersmith and City and Metropolitan lines, Baker Street provides quick links to the City and Canary Wharf.
Experience Mainline
Why settle for anything else when you can travel in style and comfort on our fast link from Birmingham to London