No booking fees on the app
Best Price Promise
Delay Repay
24/7 customer support
Leicester to Nottingham train ticket prices
€5.92
On Tue 17 Feb
Leicester to Nottingham train timetable
Travelling from Leicester to Nottingham, the fastest train takes 21m with an average travel time of 32m. 52 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 00:44 and the last at 23:47. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
21:19 Leicester | 31m, Direct | 21:50 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
21:47 Leicester | 25m, Direct | 22:12 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
22:56 Leicester | 30m, Direct | 23:26 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
23:12 Leicester | 49m, 1 change | 00:01 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
23:59 Leicester | 30m, Direct | 00:29 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
Leicester to Nottingham train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Leicester to Nottingham 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.
East Midlands Railway: Leicester to Nottingham trains
The Leicester to Nottingham train takes about 25–30 minutes on East Midlands Railway. It's a quick hop along the Midland Main Line and offers pleasant views of farmland and rural towns like Beeston. This is a popular route among commuters and students, with both cities home to leading universities.
East Midlands Railway is the train operator of the direct train between these 2 urban centres. The company connects London St Pancras with cities like Sheffield, Derby and Lincoln.
Departing from Leicester
Getting to Leicester station for your train to Nottingham is pretty straightforward – it's in the city centre on London Road, just a short walk from the Clock Tower and main high street. The station is just around the corner from De Montfort University and about a 20-minute walk from the University of Leicester campus.
East Midlands Railway runs most services here, with frequent departures to London St Pancras. There are also CrossCountry trains heading to Birmingham, Cambridge and beyond. If you're after a quick coffee before your journey, there are cafes and refreshments on the concourse.
Main stops
The main stops on this route include Loughborough and East Midlands Parkway. For services that continue to London St Pancras, there are no stops between Nottingham and Leicester.
Arriving at Nottingham
When you catch the train from Leicester to Nottingham, you'll be hopping off in the heart of town. You can catch trams to places like the University of Nottingham, Queens Medical Centre and Beeston – the stop is outside the station.
If you're staying in the city, Old Market Square is about a 10-minute walk away, while Nottingham Castle is roughly 15 minutes on foot. You'll find shops and cafes for refreshments along the way.
The station's a major hub with trains to London St Pancras, Manchester, Liverpool and many more cities. East Midlands Railway and CrossCountry are the main operators.
East Midlands Railway train classes
- First Class: This is worth it if you fancy a bit more space. You get roomier seats with tables, quieter carriages and plug sockets. Monday to Saturday, they'll serve you complimentary food and drinks at your seat.
- Standard Class: You’ll enjoy your comfy seats with tables or tray tables. Seat reservations and free Wi-Fi are also available on this route.
East Midlands Railway train travel advice
Here's what you need to know before you travel:
- Luggage: Keep bags where you can see them at all times; unattended items may be removed. Don't leave them where they may obstruct other passengers from moving around.
- Bikes: You'll need to book your bike space at least 1 day in advance. It's free but there's only space for 2 bikes per train, so book early to avoid disappointment.
- Children: Kids under 5 travel free and 5–15-year-olds get half price off. 16–17-year-olds also get 50% if they have a Saver Railcard.
- Pets: Your furry companions can travel for free – up to 2 per person. Keep them on a lead or in a carrier, and remember they need to stay on the floor, not the seats.
- Passenger Assistance: East Midlands Railway is part of the national assistance scheme. You can book at least 2 hours ahead for help with things like lifting bags and getting on and off the train.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Leicester to Nottingham train travel guide
The train journey from Leicester to Nottingham combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can get to Nottingham in just 21m, 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 Nottingham?
Ticket prices from Leicester to Nottingham average around €5.92, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
What is the best way to travel from Leicester to Nottingham by train?
What is the fastest train from Leicester to Nottingham?
The quickest train journey from Leicester to Nottingham takes 21m . 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 Nottingham?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Leicester to Nottingham. 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 Nottingham?
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?
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 Nottingham trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Leicester to Nottingham 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 Nottingham trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Leicester to Nottingham 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?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
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
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?
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 Nottingham route?
The route from Leicester to Nottingham 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
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
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 Nottingham train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
More train routes
* 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.
New user welcome pack