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Leicester to Cambridge train ticket prices

Travelling from Leicester to Cambridge by train? Find fares from as low as €17.43. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

€17.43󰄽

On Sun 21 Jun

  • Sun21 Jun
  • €17.43󰄽
    Mon22 Jun
  • €17.43󰄽
    Tue23 Jun
  • €17.43󰄽
    Wed24 Jun
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    Thu25 Jun
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    Fri26 Jun
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    Sat27 Jun

Leicester to Cambridge train timetable

Travelling from Leicester to Cambridge, the fastest train takes 2h 21m with an average travel time of 2h 52m. 32 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 08:53 and the last at 22:25. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

08:53

Leicester
2h 44m, 2 change

11:37

Cambridge
East Midlands Railway
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09:27

Leicester
3h 10m, 2 change

12:37

Cambridge
East Midlands Railway
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09:57

Leicester
2h 53m, 2 change

12:50

Cambridge
East Midlands Railway
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10:45

Leicester
2h 52m, 2 change

13:37

Cambridge
East Midlands Railway
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11:43

Leicester
2h 54m, 2 change

14:37

Cambridge
East Midlands Railway
Find tickets
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Leicester to Cambridge train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Leicester to Cambridge 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.

Price
From €17.43
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
61 miles (98km)
Journey time
2h 21m
First train
08:53
Last train
22:25
Frequency
32

CrossCountry: Leicester to Cambridge trains

By Mark Wilshin | Updated May 29, 2026
Travel from the historic heart of the Midlands to one of the UK’s most renowned university cities in under two hours with a direct CrossCountry train from Leicester to Cambridge.
Settle in on board your Leicester to Cambridge train and take in views of Rutland’s rolling hills before gliding through the wide, open landscapes of the Cambridgeshire Fens and arriving into the spired historic university city.
Running the full length of Britain, all the way from Penzance to Aberdeen, CrossCountry offers one of the most far-reaching rail services in the country. Its central hub in Birmingham links travellers to major destinations both north and south, including Manchester, Bristol, Leeds, Newcastle and Edinburgh

Departing from Leicester station

Just a 10-minute walk from the city centre, Leicester station is Leicestershire’s central hub, and the main gateway to Rutland, Nottinghamshire and the wider East Midlands region. The station is easily accessible by bus, car, or taxi, with convenient drop-off points and public transport connections right outside the station.
Managed by East Midlands Railway, Leicester station offers direct services with East Midlands Railway south to London St Pancras International and north to Nottingham, Derby, Lincoln and Sheffield. CrossCountry also provides key east–west connections to Birmingham, Peterborough, Cambridge and Stansted Airport, making Leicester a vital hub for both national and regional travel.

Main stops

Travelling across the rolling countryside of Leicestershire and Rutland from Leicester to Cambridge, you’ll pass through the market towns of Melton Mowbray, Oakham and Stamford as well as Peterborough, March and Ely before arriving into the historic university city of Cambridge.

Arriving at Cambridge

Just a short walk from the city centre, Cambridge railway station is one of the busiest in the East of England and the main gateway to this world-famous university city. With the station’s convenient location on Station Road, arriving into Cambridge couldn’t be easier – with frequent buses, readily available taxis, and cycle hire options right outside. 
Managed by Greater Anglia, the station is also served by Thameslink, Great Northern and CrossCountry, providing direct links to London Liverpool Street, London King’s Cross, Stansted Airport, Norwich, Ipswich, Ely, Birmingham and beyond.
Alighting at Cambridge station, you’ll find yourself just minutes away from the River Cam, the city’s historic colleges, and the shops and cafés of Regent Street. From punting beneath the Mathematical Bridge to exploring Michelangelo’s bronzes at the Fitzwilliam Museum or strolling through the Botanic Garden, Cambridge is a delight to explore, where you can wander cobbled streets, uncover centuries-old colleges, and soak up the timeless charm that defines this iconic university city.

CrossCountry train classes 

Standard Class: With free Wi-Fi, accessible seating and onboard catering available on most routes, both long-distance Voyager services and regional Turbostar trains offer comfortable and spacious interiors for a relaxed journey.
First Class: Travel Leicester to Cambridge First Class and enjoy extra comfort with wider seats, more legroom and at-seat tables, as well as complimentary snacks and drinks on selected services.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Prepare for your Leicester to Cambridge train journey with this quick guide, covering everything from luggage and bikes to travelling with children, pets and accessibility assistance.
  • Luggage: As storage space on board its services can be limited, CrossCountry recommends travelling with just one medium-sized bag. Larger suitcases can be stored on Voyager trains in the designated racks in Coaches D and J.
  • Bicycles: Passengers can bring both standard and electric bikes onboard CrossCountry services with a free advance reservation. Folding bikes do not require booking and can be carried on all trains when folded and stored as luggage. E-scooters are not permitted.
  • Children: Kids under five can travel free of charge, while those aged 5-15 are eligible to receive 50% off standard fares. Families can save more with a Family & Friends railcard, offering a third off adult fares and 60% off children’s tickets, while teenagers can also access half-price fares with a 16-17 Saver railcard.
  • Pets: Passengers may bring up to two pets onboard free of charge. Dogs must be kept on a lead or transported in a carrier, and all animals should remain off the seats.
  • Passenger Assist: You can book a wheelchair space or request assistance with boarding, carrying luggage and navigating stations through Passenger Assist, either at the time of purchasing your tickets, or by asking staff at major stations on the day of travel.

Leicester to Cambridge train travel guide

The train journey from Leicester to Cambridge combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can get to Cambridge in just 2h 21m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Leicester to Cambridge?

Ticket prices from Leicester to Cambridge average around €17.43, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.

How do I find the best train route from Leicester to Cambridge?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Leicester to Cambridge.

What is the fastest train from Leicester to Cambridge?

The quickest train journey from Leicester to Cambridge takes 2h 21m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.

Are there direct trains from Leicester to Cambridge?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Leicester to Cambridge. 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 Cambridge?

Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Leicester to Cambridge train timetables?

Leicester to Cambridge trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.

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 Cambridge trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Leicester to Cambridge 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

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

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 Cambridge route?

The route from Leicester to Cambridge is operated by CrossCountry. 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

  • Luggage

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Pets

    You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • 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 Cambridge train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.