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Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly train ticket prices

Travelling from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly by train? Find fares from as low as €12.64. 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

€12.64󰄽

On Sat 29 Aug

  • Sat29 Aug
  • €12.64󰄽
    Sun30 Aug
  • €12.64󰄽
    Mon31 Aug
  • €36.20󰄽
    Tue01 Sep
  • €12.64󰄽
    Wed02 Sep
  • €12.64󰄽
    Thu03 Sep
  • €12.64󰄽
    Fri04 Sep

Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly train timetable

From Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly, take the fastest train in 1h 58m, typically 2h 22m. Daily, 36 trains depart from Leicester, with the first at 05:48 and the last at 23:43. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.

DepartsArrivesOperator

05:48

Leicester
2h 41m, 2 change

08:29

Manchester Piccadilly
LNR & WMR
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05:51

Leicester
2h 44m, 1 change

08:35

Manchester Piccadilly
East Midlands Railway
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06:38

Leicester
2h 27m, 1 change

09:05

Manchester Piccadilly
East Midlands Railway
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06:48

Leicester
2h 31m, 1 change

09:19

Manchester Piccadilly
CrossCountry
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07:34

Leicester
2h 25m, 2 change

09:59

Manchester Piccadilly
East Midlands Railway
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Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly 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 €12.64
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
74 miles (120km)
Journey time
1h 58m
First train
05:48
Last train
23:43
Frequency
36

CrossCountry: Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly trains

By Jay Harlow | Updated May 20, 2026
Travel from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly with trains operated by CrossCountry, and get there in about 2 hr 29 min. This approximately 120 km (74 mile) journey requires a change along the way, but with hourly departures, you have plenty of choice for your trip to Manchester.
Enjoy rural landscapes as you depart Leicester before arriving for your change in Birmingham, where you can admire the architecture of New Street station. From here, you will be accompanied by views of the rolling hills of the Pennines before arriving at your Manchester destination.
While on board, you can enjoy the service provided by CrossCountry, an operator providing long-distance inter-city routes across Great Britain. Their extensive network offers plenty of destinations, including Glasgow, York and Edinburgh.

Departing from Leicester

Leicester station is the sole train station serving Leicester, located in the southeast of the city centre. You can get to the station via one of the many bus lines, stopping at the nearby Prebend St, Station St or Charles St – all within a three-minute walk – by taxi, or on foot; the station is just around a 12-minute walk from Gallowtree Gate.

The station is a central stop on the Midlands Main Line operated by East Midlands Railway between London and Sheffield, with connections to these two destinations as well as stops like Derby, Chesterfield and Nottingham. CrossCountry operates from Leicester station on their Birmingham–Leicester and Birmingham–Stansted Airport routes, with further connections to stops like Nuneaton and Melton Mowbray.

Main stops 

The main stops on the Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly train with CrossCountry are Nuneaton, Coleshill Parkway, Birmingham New Street – where you will change trains – Wolverhampton, Stafford, Stoke-on-Trent, Macclesfield and Stockport. Stops may vary according to your route, departing time and operator.

Arriving at Manchester Piccadilly

Manchester Piccadilly is one of four train stations in the city, and it's the busiest. It is located in the southeast of Manchester city, and its location makes it a great jumping-off point for a trip here.

Getting around from Manchester Piccadilly is a breeze, with its interconnected Metrolink tram service and its extensive National Rail network, you can reach destinations like London, Birmingham, Glasgow and various locations across Wales and Northern England.

With many of Manchester’s most iconic spots located only a stone’s throw away, you won’t be stuck for things to do. Piccadilly Gardens offers the perfect opportunity for an easy stroll combined with some people-watching, while the Northern Quarter is ideal for some retail therapy in its many independent shops. And if you’re looking for nightlife, Manchester’s Gay Village is located on Canal Street for some lively LGBTQ+ atmosphere.

CrossCountry train classes

CrossCountry offers two service classes for you to choose from for your Leicester to Manchester train journey.

  • Standard Class: Standard tickets offer comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi and a catering service.
  • First Class: Travel First Class from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly and enjoy larger reclining seats, more table space and complimentary refreshments on some services.
Buy cheap train tickets from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly by booking in advance on TrainPal.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Take the guesswork out of train travel with our breakdown of everything you need to know about getting from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly by train with CrossCountry.

  • Luggage: One large suitcase per passenger, to be stored in the luggage racks by carriage doors. Smaller bags can be stored under the seat or in the overhead racks. 
  • Bicycles: Pre-booking your bike space may be necessary depending on your specific route. All trains have at least two bike spaces, with extra space on Voyager trains. Without a booking, space is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
  • Pets: Two pets per passenger travel free. Dogs must be on a lead or in a pet carrier. Other pets must be transported in a carrier, taking care not to occupy passenger space. 
  • Children: Prams must be folded and stowed in designated areas. Under 5s travel free, with discounts available for children up to 15. Railcards such as the 16–25 Railcard can reduce fares for older children.
  • Passenger Assist: Support is available for elderly passengers or passengers with reduced mobility on CrossCountry trains, from planning the journey to disembarking the train, and can be requested on the day or booked in advance.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Why book Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly 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 Manchester Piccadilly start from just €12.64 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., Lumo , Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry on the Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.

Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly train travel guide

Taking the train from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can arrive at Manchester Piccadilly in just 1h 58m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

The average ticket fare from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly is about €12.64, 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 Manchester Piccadilly?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly 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 Manchester Piccadilly?

The fastest train journey time from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly is 1h 58m . 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 Manchester Piccadilly?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly. 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 Manchester Piccadilly?

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 Manchester Piccadilly trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly 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 Manchester Piccadilly trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly 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?

Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.

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 can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

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 Manchester Piccadilly route?

The route from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly is operated by Lumo . 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

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar 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 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.

  • 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 Manchester Piccadilly 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?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* 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.