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Leicester to Nottingham train ticket prices

Travelling from Leicester to Nottingham by train? Find fares from as low as €5.09. 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

€5.09󰄽

On Sat 30 May

  • Sat30 May
  • €5.94󰄽
    Sun31 May
  • €9.69󰄽
    Mon01 Jun
  • €9.69󰄽
    Tue02 Jun
  • €9.69󰄽
    Wed03 Jun
  • €5.94󰄽
    Thu04 Jun
  • €9.69󰄽
    Fri05 Jun

Leicester to Nottingham train timetable

From Leicester to Nottingham, take the fastest train in 21m, typically 32m. Daily, 53 trains depart from Leicester, with the first at 01:52 and the last at 23:43. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.

DepartsArrivesOperator

18:24

Leicester
31m, Direct

18:55

Nottingham
East Midlands Railway
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18:43

Leicester
53m, Direct

19:36

Nottingham
East Midlands Railway
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18:49

Leicester
28m, Direct

19:17

Nottingham
East Midlands Railway
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19:22

Leicester
35m, Direct

19:57

Nottingham
East Midlands Railway
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19:31

Leicester
59m, Direct

20:30

Nottingham
East Midlands Railway
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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.

Price
From €5.09
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
22 miles (36km)
Journey time
21m
First train
01:52
Last train
23:43
Frequency
53
Train operators

East Midlands Railway trains from Leicester to Nottingham

The route between Leicester and Nottingham is a short but busy intercity connection in the East Midlands. Direct services operated by East Midlands Railway (EMR) run frequently throughout the day, with journey times of 30-40 minutes depending on stopping patterns. Despite the short distance, passengers can still choose between Standard and First Class, each offering a slightly different onboard experience depending on the train fleet in service.

What is Standard Class like on East Midlands Railway?

Standard Class on EMR trains between Leicester and Nottingham is designed for reliability and practicality. Seating is comfortable with a mix of airline-style seats and tables, making it suitable for commuters or short leisure trips.
Free onboard Wi-Fi is available across intercity services, allowing passengers to browse or check emails during the journey. On Meridian trains, plug sockets are usually available for charging devices, making it easy to work or stay connected even during the brief trip.

Is First Class worth it on this short route?

Whether First Class is worth it for a 20-minute journey depends largely on when you travel. During busy commuter periods, it can provide a noticeably quieter environment and more space.
Seats are wider and arranged in a 2+1 configuration, giving more legroom and personal space than Standard Class. On many weekday services, passengers also receive complimentary drinks or light snacks, which adds a small but pleasant upgrade for those wanting a more relaxed journey.

How much luggage can you take on EMR trains?

East Midlands Railway allows passengers to bring up to three items of luggage on board. This usually means two larger suitcases and one smaller personal item such as a backpack or briefcase.
Storage areas are located throughout each carriage, including overhead racks, under-seat spaces, and dedicated luggage stacks near the doors.

Train travels from Leicester to Nottingham

Direct trains from Leicester to Nottingham run throughout the day, connecting the two cities in half an hour. Understanding how to navigate departure, enjoy the ride, and exit efficiently in Nottingham helps make the journey even smoother.

Departure from Leicester

Leicester Railway Station sits on London Road, just south-east of the main shopping district.

Specific transport links

  • Local bus services: Multiple Arriva and First Leicester routes, including the 48 and 80, stop directly outside the station on London Road
  • Hospital Hopper service: Connects Leicester Royal Infirmary, Glenfield Hospital, and the railway station with regular daily services
  • Hop! free city bus: Electric circular bus linking the station with Highcross Shopping Centre and Jubilee Square,e roughly every ten minutes
  • Taxi rank: Located immediately outside the main entrance, providing quick access to hotels, universities and business districts

Station layout

  • Platform 1: Used for southbound and eastbound trains heading toward Birmingham New Street and Stansted Airport.
  • Platform 2: Most northbound services to Nottingham, Derby and Sheffield depart from these platforms
  • Main concourse area: The Victorian booking hall contains ticket machines, the staffed ticket office and travel information screens

Pre-departure essentials

WHSmith on the concourse is the easiest place to pick up a traditional UK meal deal, bottled drinks or travel snacks. For coffee, the Pumpkin Cafe on the platforms and Starbucks near the entrance are popular choices.

Onboard trains from Leicester to Nottingham

Although the journey lasts only around 30 minutes, the route still offers a pleasant snapshot of the East Midlands landscape.

The scenic side

Sit on the right-hand side to enjoy clear views of the rolling Soar Valley farmland, the Grand Union Canal, riverside landscapes, and wetlands approaching Nottingham.

Key landmarks

  • River Soar: Historic river running through Leicestershire that parallels the railway shortly after departure
  • Barrow Boating area: Well-known local rowing and kayaking spot near the village of Barrow-upon-Soar
  • Ratcliffe-on-Soar Power Station: Massive cooling towers visible for miles, a well-known landmark of the region
  • Attenborough Nature Reserve: Expansive lakes and wetlands formed from former gravel pits near Nottingham

Arriving at Nottingham

Nottingham Station is a historic Victorian station that has been extensively renovated, blending classic architecture with modern transport connections. After stepping off the train, choosing the correct exit will help you reach the city centre or onward transport quickly.

The correct exit

  • North exit via the main concourse: The most direct route toward Nottingham’s city centre and major shopping areas
  • Carrington Street access: Leads straight onto the main road connecting the station with central Nottingham
  • South exit toward Queen’s Road: Best option for taxis, car pick-ups and access to the station car park
  • Rear station entrance: Convenient for passengers meeting drivers or heading toward nearby hotels
  • Tram bridge access: The Central bridge provides a direct connection to the tram platforms above

Onward travel

  • Nottingham Express Transit tram stop: Located above the station platforms for quick city connections
  • NET tram routes: Provide easy travel to Nottingham Trent University and the Royal Centre
  • Broad Marsh Bus Station: Major bus interchange roughly five minutes’ walk from the north exit
  • City bus stops: Multiple local bus routes depart from Carrington Street and nearby Collin Street
  • Robin Hood Line trains: Regional rail services connecting Nottingham with Mansfield and Worksop

Walkability

From the North Exit, walking along Carrington Street takes around 10 to 15 minutes to reach Old Market Square, the city’s central hub. Along the route, you’ll pass the historic Canalhouse area and the redeveloped Broad Marsh district. For most travellers staying in the centre, walking is usually quicker than waiting for a bus or taxi.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Leicester to Nottingham train travel guide

Taking the train from Leicester to Nottingham is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can arrive at Nottingham in just 21m, 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 Nottingham?

The average ticket fare from Leicester to Nottingham is about €5.09, 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 Nottingham by train?

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

The fastest train journey time from Leicester to Nottingham is 21m . 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 Nottingham?

No, there are no direct trains from Leicester to Nottingham. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip

Is it worth taking a train from Leicester to Nottingham?

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

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 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?

It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.

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?

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. 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?

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 Leicester to Nottingham 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

  • Luggage

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

  • 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.

  • 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

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.

How to buy cheap Leicester to Nottingham 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?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* 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.