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Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly train ticket prices
€16.65
On Tue 13
Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly train timetable
Travelling from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly, the fastest train takes 1h 55m with an average travel time of 2h 23m. 51 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 01:28 and the last at 19:50. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
06:17 Leicester | 2h 8m, 1 change | 08:25 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
06:37 Leicester | 2h 28m, 1 change | 09:05 Manchester Piccadilly | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
06:48 Leicester | 2h 41m, 1 change | 09:29 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
07:22 Leicester | 1h 57m, 1 change | 09:19 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
07:22 Leicester | 2h 37m, 1 change | 09:59 Manchester Piccadilly | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
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.
CrossCountry: Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly trains
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.
Main stops
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.
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.
Why book Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
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 €16.65 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., CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast 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 55m, 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 Manchester Piccadilly?
The average ticket fare from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly is about €16.65, 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?
What is the fastest train from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly?
The quickest train journey from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly takes 1h 55m . 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 Manchester Piccadilly?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly. 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 Manchester Piccadilly?
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 Manchester Piccadilly trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly 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 Manchester Piccadilly trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly 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?
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?
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?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly route?
The Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly route is operated by CrossCountry. 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
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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Bicycle
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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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
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
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
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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