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Leicester to Derby train ticket prices
£2.70
On Wed 15 Apr
Leicester to Derby train timetable
From Leicester to Derby, take the fastest train in 20m, typically 31m. Daily, 37 trains depart from Leicester, with the first at 01:33 and the last at 23:37. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
21:37 Leicester | 33m, Direct | 22:10 Derby | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
22:06 Leicester | 22m, Direct | 22:28 Derby | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
22:38 Leicester | 31m, Direct | 23:09 Derby | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
23:37 Leicester | 31m, Direct | 00:08 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
Taking the train from Leicester to Derby is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can arrive at Derby in just 20m, 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 Derby?
The average fare from Leicester to Derby is approximately £2.70, 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 Derby?
What is the fastest train from Leicester to Derby?
The fastest train journey time from Leicester to Derby is 20m . 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 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 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?
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 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?
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 Leicester to Derby route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
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 Leicester to Derby route is operated by East Midlands Railway. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.
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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
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
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
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
* 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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