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Leicester to Birmingham New Street train ticket prices
£3.70
On Thu 09 Apr
Leicester to Birmingham New Street train timetable
Travelling from Leicester to Birmingham New Street, the fastest train takes 48m with an average travel time of 56m. 34 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 06:17 and the last at 22:56. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
19:20 Leicester | 55m, Direct | 20:15 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
19:50 Leicester | 50m, Direct | 20:40 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
20:20 Leicester | 55m, Direct | 21:15 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
20:50 Leicester | 49m, Direct | 21:39 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
21:50 Leicester | 48m, Direct | 22:38 Birmingham New Street | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Leicester to Birmingham New Street train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Leicester to Birmingham New Street 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.
Travelling with CrossCountry from Leicester to Birmingham New Street
The Leicester to Birmingham New Street service is operated by CrossCountry and usually runs on either a Class 170 Turbostar or a Class 220/221 Voyager. It’s a short hop, taking 48–55 minutes, but your onboard experience can differ noticeably depending on whether you travel Standard or First Class, particularly during peak commuter hours, which are from 07:00–09:00 and from 16:00–18:30.
What does Standard Class include?
Standard Class is configured with a 2+2 seating layout. On the Class 170 trains, the carriage feels reasonably open, with larger windows and slightly better legroom. On Voyager services, airline-style seating can feel a touch tighter, particularly if the train is busy.
If you prefer a calmer atmosphere, Voyager services typically designate Coach B as the Quiet Coach, ideal for working or simply avoiding phone conversations.
What is the luggage allowance?
Luggage space is practical but limited. You’re allowed one large suitcase of up to 90 × 70 × 30 cm, plus a small bag and hand luggage. If you’re boarding at Leicester during peak time, it pays to get on promptly to secure space.
Is CrossCountry First Class Worth It?
For a journey under an hour, First Class is less about luxury and more about space and certainty, particularly on the 07:00–09:00 and late afternoon commuter runs.
Seating switches to a 2+1 layout, which immediately feels more relaxed. There’s noticeably more shoulder room, wider seats and a deeper recline. Every seat has a full-size fixed table, which makes a real difference if you’re working on a laptop.
Catering is included. Morning services usually offer fruit, breakfast biscuits and quality coffee. Later in the day, expect complimentary hot drinks, soft drinks and sweet or savoury snacks.
Train travels from Leicester to Birmingham New Street
From Leicester’s compact but efficient platforms to the expansive Grand Central concourse in Birmingham, this journey offers both comfort and convenience. Knowing the best departure procedures, scenic views, and city access points ensures a smooth trip from start to finish.
Departure from Leicester
Leicester railway station, operated by East Midlands Railway, serves as a well-connected starting point for Birmingham-bound services. With step-free access to all four main platforms via lifts, navigating the station is straightforward.
Specific transport links
- Buses: Arriva, First Bus, and Centrebus stop directly outside on London Road.
- Taxi: Dedicated rank on Station Street, right at the front of the station.
- Airport: Skylink service to East Midlands Airport departs from St Margaret’s Bus Station in the city centre.
Station layout
- Platforms 1–4: All step-free; trains to Birmingham New Street depart from Platforms 2, 3 and 4.
- Concourse: Central ticket hall with clear signage to platforms and exits.
- Facilities: Lifts and escalators connect all levels; waiting areas are adjacent to platforms.
Pre-departure essentials
For a quick caffeine fix or a light meal, Leicester station has several reliable options. Costa Coffee offers a sit-down experience, while AMT Coffee is ideal for grab-and-go drinks. For sandwiches or meal deals, Greggs and Upper Crust provide efficient, affordable choices.
Onboard trains from Leicester to Birmingham New Street
Once your train departs, the cityscape quickly gives way to the open Midlands countryside. Whether you’re on a Class 170 or Voyager train, seating and window alignment can affect the view, so early boarding is recommended.
The scenic side
- Sit on the left-hand side to get a view of the rolling Midlands countryside and observe Leicester’s outskirts before farmland stretches out.
Key landmarks
- Wigston Junction: Important rail interchange shortly after departure.
- Birmingham skyline: Becomes visible before descending into New Street’s underground platforms.
- “Ozzy” the mechanical bull: Permanent fixture in Grand Central concourse, visible once you arrive.
Arriving at Birmingham New Street
Birmingham New Street, one of the busiest stations in the Midlands, is a major underground hub. Knowing the correct exit and onward travel options makes stepping into the city seamless.
The correct exit
- Stephenson Street (North Exit): Direct route to the Bullring and main high-street shops.
- Navigation Street (West Exit): Quick access to the official black cab rank and Victoria Square/Birmingham Town Hall.
- Smallbrook Queensway (South Exit): Ideal for the O2 Academy and Southside district.
Onward travel
- West Midlands Metro: Access from Stephenson Street for the Jewellery Quarter and onward to Wolverhampton.
- Buses: Stops surround the station; the local Transport Information Office can guide you.
- Taxis: Official rank off Navigation Street; Uber/private hire pickup at Hill Street “Drop & Go” area.
Walkability
Birmingham city centre is highly walkable from New Street. The Bullring & Grand Central are 2–5 minutes away via covered links; Birmingham Cathedral is approximately 5 minutes on foot, and the Library of Birmingham is reachable in 10–15 minutes via Victoria Square. Even without public transport, major landmarks and shopping areas are within easy strolling distance.
Leicester to Birmingham New Street train travel guide
Taking the train from Leicester to Birmingham New Street is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can arrive at Birmingham New Street in just 48m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Leicester to Birmingham New Street?
The average fare from Leicester to Birmingham New Street is approximately £3.70, 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.
How do I find the best train route from Leicester to Birmingham New Street?
What is the fastest train from Leicester to Birmingham New Street?
The fastest train journey time from Leicester to Birmingham New Street is 48m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from Leicester to Birmingham New Street?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Leicester to Birmingham New Street. 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 New Street?
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?
You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Leicester to Birmingham New Street trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Leicester to Birmingham New Street trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find 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 New Street trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Leicester to Birmingham New Street 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?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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 New Street route?
The train from Leicester to Birmingham New Street is operated by CrossCountry. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.
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
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
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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
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.
How to buy cheap Leicester to Birmingham New Street train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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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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