The Cross City Line

The Cross City Line is probably the most well-​known of all the local railway lines in and around Birmingham. Started in the late 1970s, it runs from Lichfield Trent Valley down through Sutton Coldfield into Birmingham New Street then heads south through Selly Park and Northfield, eventually ending up at Redditch. Having lived somewhere along the line for most of my life, I could name you all the stations in order, but that might be too much excitement for you.
During peak times the trains run every ten minutes, with many variations (some only run to Longbridge, Four Oaks or Lichfield City) and, in my experience, is generally very punctual, although things can go a little awry in the rush hour. For most of the stations some distance away from the city centre, it’s by far the quickest way to get into Birmingham. Most of the stops don’t really feature touristy destinations and are just functional stops in the suburbs. That said Lichfield’s a pretty good destination for a day out, whilst Barnt Green station drops you in walking distance of the Lickey Hills. The line also serves Birmingham Uni, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Villa Park and Bournville.
I don’t live on the Cross City Line any more which is a shame because it really is the one of the most convenient railway services in Birmingham.