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Leicester to Birmingham International train ticket prices
€10.25
On Sun 23 Aug
Leicester to Birmingham International train timetable
Travelling from Leicester to Birmingham International, the fastest train takes 1h 19m with an average travel time of 1h 24m. 13 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 10:20 and the last at 22:20. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
17:20 Leicester | 1h 25m, 1 change | 18:45 Birmingham International | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
18:20 Leicester | 1h 24m, 1 change | 19:44 Birmingham International | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
19:20 Leicester | 1h 25m, 1 change | 20:45 Birmingham International | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
20:20 Leicester | 1h 28m, 1 change | 21:48 Birmingham International | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
21:20 Leicester | 1h 19m, 1 change | 22:39 Birmingham International | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Leicester to Birmingham International train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Leicester to Birmingham International with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
CrossCountry trains from Leicester to Birmingham International
Is CrossCountry First Class worth the upgrade?
Upgrading to First Class on CrossCountry trains transforms the 50-minute trip into a quieter, more comfortable experience. Passengers benefit from larger reclining seats, more legroom, and access to tables. For peak-hour travellers, the reduced crowding and workspace often make the extra fare worthwhile.
How much luggage space is available on board?
CrossCountry Voyager and Turbostar trains feature overhead racks for small bags and luggage stacks at the end of each carriage for larger suitcases. Popular times can see these areas fill quickly.
Train travels from Leicester to Birmingham International
Departure from Leicester
Leicester Station is the hub for East Midlands rail travel, with CrossCountry trains to Birmingham departing roughly every 30 minutes.
Specific transport links
- Arriva and First Bus: City routes such as 31 and 48 stop directly outside the main entrance on London Road.
- Hospital Hopper: A shuttle linking the station to Leicester’s hospitals and the University of Leicester campus.
- Taxis and Cycles: Large Hackney Carriage rank at the front; Town Hall Square cycle hub is a five-minute walk away.
Station layout
- Platform 2 & 3: Primary departure points for Birmingham-bound CrossCountry trains.
- Main concourse: Central area with ticket barriers, digital screens, and information desks.
- Waiting areas: Both heated and unheated seating zones are available near the platforms.
Pre-departure essentials
Pumpkin Cafe and Whistlestop provide snacks, while the Starbucks near the ticket barriers is ideal for a premium coffee or a more substantial meal deal. Ticket machines, toilets, and waiting areas are clearly signposted and easy to locate.
Onboard trains from Leicester to Birmingham International
CrossCountry’s modern Voyager and Turbostar fleets offer a comfortable environment, making the journey convenient for both business and leisure travellers.
The scenic side
- Sit on the left-hand side for panoramic views of the rolling Leicestershire countryside and the approach to the West Midlands.
- Sit on the right-hand side for watching historic brickwork, railway junctions, and the industrial outskirts near Nuneaton.
Key landmarks
- Nuneaton station: Victorian architecture and junction tracks mark a notable stop on the journey.
- "Ozzy" the Bull: A massive animatronic bull from the Commonwealth Games, located inside the Grand Central concourse above the platforms.
Arriving at Birmingham International
After a 10–15 minute transfer from Birmingham New Street, passengers arrive at a busy interchange handling over 5 million annual travellers. It serves as the main gateway to Birmingham Airport and Resorts World Arena, with direct links via the AirRail Link and local bus services.
The correct exit
- Airport and NEC exit: Upper-level walkway to AirRail Link and exhibition halls.
- Station front exit: Leads to the Taxi Rank and Long Stay car parks.
- Resorts World exit: Follow NEC signs, veer south past ticket barriers for shopping and cinema access.
Onward travel
- AirRail Link: Free automated shuttle, departing every 2 minutes, reaches the airport terminal in 90 seconds.
- Bus and coach station: Two-minute walk; X1 and X12 buses to Birmingham City Centre or Coventry.
- Car hire: Available inside the station concourse for airport travellers.
- Taxis: Rank is located at the ground-level exit for quick access to the city or surrounding areas.
Walkability
While the NEC and Resorts World Arena are accessible on foot via covered walkways, Birmingham city centre lies over 8 miles away. Travellers should use a connecting train or bus service to reach the city efficiently. Covered paths and escalators make transfers straightforward, even with luggage.
Why book Leicester to Birmingham International trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
Unlike Trainline, TrainPal charges no booking fees on any route. On top of that, TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from Leicester to Birmingham International start from just €10.25 on TrainPal.
Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?
TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, LNR & WMR on the Leicester to Birmingham International route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
Leicester to Birmingham International train travel guide
Travelling by train from Leicester to Birmingham International is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can reach Birmingham International in just 1h 19m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Leicester to Birmingham International?
The average fare from Leicester to Birmingham International is approximately €10.25, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.
What is the best way to travel from Leicester to Birmingham International by train?
What is the fastest train from Leicester to Birmingham International?
The fastest train journey time from Leicester to Birmingham International is 1h 19m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
Are there direct trains from Leicester to Birmingham International?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Leicester to Birmingham International. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Leicester to Birmingham International?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Leicester to Birmingham International trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While Leicester to Birmingham International trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Leicester to Birmingham International is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.
Do Leicester to Birmingham International trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Leicester to Birmingham International are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the train operator.
Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone
Which train companies operate the Leicester to Birmingham International route?
The route from Leicester to Birmingham International is operated by Avanti West Coast. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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Bicycle
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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Children
Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
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Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
How to buy cheap Leicester to Birmingham International train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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Your train was disrupted?
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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.
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