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Leicester to Derby train ticket prices
€3.25
On Thu 01 Jan
Leicester to Derby train timetable
Travelling from Leicester to Derby, the fastest train takes 20m with an average travel time of 31m. 37 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 01:03 and the last at 23:37. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
07:43 Leicester | 31m, Direct | 08:14 Derby | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
08:09 Leicester | 23m, Direct | 08:32 Derby | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
08:38 Leicester | 32m, Direct | 09:10 Derby | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
09:09 Leicester | 21m, Direct | 09:30 Derby | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
09:40 Leicester | 31m, Direct | 10:11 Derby | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
Leicester to Derby train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Leicester to Derby 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.
East Midlands Railway: Leicester to Derby trains
Beat all routes to Derby by car and get to the post-industrial city in just around 26 minutes on an East Midlands Railway train. Even better, it’s easy to buy cheap train tickets. Two services run every hour, offering views of the charming countryside and industrial landscape.
Also known as EMR, East Midlands Railway provides intercity and suburban services to/from London and long-distance trains across the East Midlands. Destinations include Long Eaton, Sheffield and Bedford.
Departing from Leicester
Your Leicester to Derby train departs from a convenient location. Leicester train station is on London Road, about a ten-minute walk from the city centre. A number of bus routes can take you directly in front of the station building.
CrossCountry and East Midlands Railway (EMR) operate services connecting passengers to towns and cities across the UK as well as Stansted Airport. Choose from direct trains to Peterborough, Birmingham, Nottingham and more.
Main stops
Some services from Leicester to Derby are direct with no intermediate stops. Other trains may stop at Loughborough, East Midlands Parkway or Long Eaton. Calling points can differ depending on the operator, time and route.
Arriving at Derby
You’re only a short walk from the city centre, plus fun attractions, tasty eateries and hidden gems after leaving Derby railway station. If you have loads of luggage or would rather get a lift, the station has a taxi rank as well as many local buses.
Derby has a chain of 18th-century mills, including the world’s first factory. This rich history is showcased in the Museum of Making, housing a treasure trove of important items and collections. The city also contains England’s first public park, the Derby Arboretum. Did you know that this picturesque oasis provided the blueprint for Central Park in New York? With an intriguing past, Derby is a must-see destination.
Travelling to another destination? East Midlands Railway and CrossCountry offer a number of direct train options. Choose from journeys to Matlock, Edinburgh, London and other towns and cities in England, Scotland and Wales.
East Midlands Railway train classes
- Standard Class: Power sockets and free Wi-Fi are available in certain East Midlands Railway (EMR) Standard Class carriages. All seats either have a table or a tray table.
- First Class: Leicester to Derby First Class perks include wider seating in quieter carriages with individual tables and power sockets. During weekday services, light food and refreshments are served at your table. Selected stations are also eligible for a “First plus parking” ticket, which provides return travel and three days’ parking.
East Midlands Railway train travel advice
- Luggage: Three pieces (two larger items and a smaller bag) are permitted on East Midlands Railway (EMR) services.
- Bicycles: Bikes should be kept in the vestibule area, and passengers must stay with them during the journey. EMR recommends reserving a space, as you can’t book on the day of travel. During weekdays, non-folding bikes aren’t allowed on trains arriving in London before 10:00 or departing from 16:00 to 19:00. E-scooters are banned.
- Children: Under-5s get free travel. Tickets are half price for 5–15-year-olds and 16–17 Saver Railcard holders. The Family and Friends Railcard provides a third off for up to four adults and 60% off for four children.
- Pets: Two pets can travel with you. They should be in a secure carrier or on a lead and off seats.
- Passenger Assist: Help for your journey, from navigating stations to alighting trains, can be booked up to two hours before travel.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Leicester to Derby train travel guide
The train journey from Leicester to Derby combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can get to Derby in just 20m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Leicester to Derby?
Ticket prices from Leicester to Derby average around €3.25, 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 Derby?
What is the fastest train from Leicester to Derby?
The fastest train journey time from Leicester to Derby is 20m. 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 Derby?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Leicester to Derby. 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 Derby?
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 Derby trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Leicester to Derby 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?
Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.
Do Leicester to Derby trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Leicester to Derby 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?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific 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 Derby route?
The route from Leicester to Derby is operated by East Midlands Railway. 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
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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Bicycle
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules 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
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.
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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 Derby 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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