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Leicester to London train ticket prices
€32.24
On Wed 18 Mar
Leicester to London train timetable
Travelling from Leicester to London, the fastest train takes 1h 7m with an average travel time of 1h 12m. With 37 daily trains, the first departs at 08:29 and the last at 21:41. Off-Peak hours begin at 09:30 on weekdays, and all-day Off-Peak on weekends and bank holidays. Keep informed of live train status, times, delays, and cancellations with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
12:42 Leicester | 1h 11m, Direct | 13:53 London St. Pancras International | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
12:59 Leicester | 1h 8m, Direct | 14:07 London St. Pancras International | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
13:43 Leicester | 1h 11m, Direct | 14:54 London St. Pancras International | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
13:59 Leicester | 1h 8m, Direct | 15:07 London St. Pancras International | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
14:32 Leicester | 1h 7m, Direct | 15:39 London St. Pancras International | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
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.
Travelling with East Midlands Railway: Onboard Experience
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.
Leicester to London train travel guide
The train journey from Leicester to London combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can get to London in just 1h 7m, 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 London?
The average ticket fare from Leicester to London is about €32.24, 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.
What is the best way to travel from Leicester to London by train?
What is the fastest train from Leicester to London?
The quickest train journey from Leicester to London takes 1h 7m . 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, 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 London trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Leicester to London 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 London trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Leicester to London 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?
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
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 London route?
The Leicester to London 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
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 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 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 London 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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