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Leicester to London train ticket prices

Travelling from Leicester to London by train? Find fares from as low as €20.95. 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

€20.95󰄽

On Sat 19

  • €30.38󰄽
    Sun13Sep
  • €32.47󰄽
    Mon14Sep
  • €21.56󰄽
    Tue15Sep
  • €32.47󰄽
    Wed16Sep
  • €32.47󰄽
    Thu17Sep
  • €35.28󰄽
    Fri18Sep
  • Sat19Sep

Leicester to London train timetable

Journey from Leicester to London on the fastest train in 1h 12m, usually 1h 16m. Every day, 28 trains leave from Leicester, starting at 08:29 and ending at 21:41. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.

DepartsArrivesOperator

21:14

Leicester
1h 15m, Direct

22:29

London St. Pancras International
East Midlands Railway
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21:56

Leicester
1h 18m, Direct

23:14

London St. Pancras International
East Midlands Railway
Find tickets
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Leicester to London train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Leicester to London 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 €20.95
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
89 miles (143km)
Journey time
1h 12m
First train
08:29
Last train
21:41
Frequency
28
Train operators

Travelling with East Midlands Railway: Onboard Experience

By Daniel Clark | Updated May 20, 2026
From the largest city in the East Midlands to England’s largest city, your journey from Leicester to London will be smooth and direct with East Midlands Railway (EMR). Sit back and enjoy the onboard experience – your only decision is whether to upgrade to First Class.

What are Standard Class seats like with East Midlands Railway?

East Midlands Railway runs a varied network throughout the East Midlands and beyond. In Standard Class, passengers have access to essential amenities, including toilets and a trolley service. Seats are wide and well supported, with winged headrests helping to ensure a comfortable onboard experience.

Are Leicester to London First Class tickets worth it?

If you’re looking for luxury, First Class tickets with EMR are definitely the way to get more out of your journey. Power sockets and free WiFi make the journey more productive, while spacious seats increase the comfort. For an extra dose of indulgence, complimentary food is available (Monday to Saturday only). Remember: Railcard discounts can be used when booking First Class seats.

Does EMR have enough luggage space?

East Midlands Railway offers a more compact luggage space than some other operators. The limit on bags is two per passenger, with a maximum size of 90 x 70 x 30 cm. Since space on end-of-aisle luggage racks can be limited, smaller bags must be placed under seats or in overhead compartments. Leicester to London travellers should be able to find space to store their bags, except on the busiest services.

Train travel from Leicester to London 

Want to hear a secret? Making your journey from Leicester to London is easier if you plan ahead using our local station secrets. From finding your platform to buying your coffee, here’s everything you need to know.

Leicester: Getting to the Platform

A heritage station open since 1840, Leicester has four platforms and a whole lot of history. Fittingly for your journey, Leicester Station is located on London Road.
  • London calling: Although Leicester isn’t the largest station in the Midlands, you should aim to arrive with plenty of time for your train. When boarding EMR trains to London, you’ll likely depart from platform 3, across the bridge from the entrance. For passengers with accessibility needs, step-free access to all platforms is available.
  • Wake-up call: Whether you’re commuting to the capital on the first train of the day at 05:03, or simply need a pick-me-up, Leicester has a Costa Coffee within the station. If you arrive with plenty of time, there are several independent cafes and bars on the approach to Leicester Station, including Watson’s Bar, a lively cocktail bar with live music and great tapas-style food.

Onboard trains from Leicester to London 

Staring out a train window is a time-honoured tradition for dreamers and beauty seekers. From rolling fields to quaint villages, here’s what to look out for on your route to the capital.
  • Key Landmarks: Start your jaunt southwards through miles of Leicestershire countryside. Count several churches, as well as the Glen Aqueduct near Wistow, before you catch a glimpse of the charming riverside town of Bedford. As you head past Luton and Borehamwood, greenery makes way for urban housing, marking the imminent arrival of London.
  • The View Alert: Choose a seat on the Left-Hand Side (facing South) for the best views of Bedford, or the Right-Hand Side to see more of St Albans.

Arriving at London St Pancras International

From European connections to world-class facilities, St Pancras is a delightful arrival point in London. Whether you’re rushing to a restaurant or landmark, or have time to spare, here’s what you need to know.
  • World-class facilities: After your short direct train from Leicester, you may be ready to head straight out to the capital. However, if you do need anything, St Pancras will surely be able to help. If you’re looking for food, try afternoon tea at The Hansom, or grab a coffee to go from PAUL.
  • Integrated transport network: One of the best things about London has to be its Underground system! From your train to Kings Cross Underground Station, you don’t need to step outside: hop onto the Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly, or Victoria line tube for a quick connection around the capital.
  • Pick an exit: Exits to Pancras Road and Euston Road are available to those who want to explore the city by foot. Cross Euston Road and follow Judd Street, then Bernard Street, and finally Montague Place to get to the British Museum in 20 minutes. Or, if the sun is shining, Regent’s Park to the west of St Pancras is reachable in only 45 minutes.

Why book Leicester to London 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 London start from just €20.95 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., East Midlands Railway on the Leicester to London route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.

Leicester to London train travel guide

Travelling by train from Leicester to London is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can reach London in just 1h 12m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

The average ticket fare from Leicester to London is about €20.95, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.

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

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Leicester to London train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

What is the fastest train from Leicester to London?

The quickest train journey from Leicester to London takes 1h 12m . 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 London?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Leicester to London. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Leicester to London?

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

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

Are Leicester to London trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Leicester to London 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 London trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Leicester to London 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?

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

Other things you might be interested

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

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.

Which train companies operate the Leicester to London route?

The route from Leicester to London 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

  • Luggage

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

  • 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.

  • 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

    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 London 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?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

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.