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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 €14.12. 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

€14.12󰄽

On Sat 06 Jun

  • €49.70󰄽
    Sun31 May
  • €36.48󰄽
    Mon01 Jun
  • €31.39󰄽
    Tue02 Jun
  • €28.36󰄽
    Wed03 Jun
  • €41.58󰄽
    Thu04 Jun
  • €28.36󰄽
    Fri05 Jun
  • Sat06 Jun

Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly train timetable

The journey from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly on the fastest train in 1h 59m, usually 2h 39m. Each day, 33 trains leave from Leicester, starting at 10:20 and ending at 23:56. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

18:18

Leicester
2h 1m, 1 change

20:19

Manchester Piccadilly
CrossCountry
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18:50

Leicester
2h 39m, 1 change

21:29

Manchester Piccadilly
CrossCountry
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19:06

Leicester
1h 59m, 1 change

21:05

Manchester Piccadilly
East Midlands Railway
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19:18

Leicester
2h 1m, 1 change

21:19

Manchester Piccadilly
CrossCountry
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19:50

Leicester
2h 39m, 1 change

22:29

Manchester Piccadilly
CrossCountry
Find tickets
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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 €14.12
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
74 miles (120km)
Journey time
1h 59m
First train
10:20
Last train
23:56
Frequency
33

CrossCountry: Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly trains

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.

Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly train travel guide

The train journey from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can get to Manchester Piccadilly in just 1h 59m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

The average fare from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly is approximately €14.12, 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.

What is the best way to travel from Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly by train?

Utilise the TrainPal app or website to its fullest potential. Our Train Journey Planner is a top-notch online tool for planning your trips. Just enter your departure and arrival cities or stations. Then, review timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and check for food supplies or other amenities. 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 59m . 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, 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, 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?

Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

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?

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, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

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 Avanti West Coast. 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

  • Luggage

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar 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 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

    Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted 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 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?

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our ticket refunds and changes page.

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.