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Leicester to Nottingham train ticket prices
€5.91
On Thu 26 Feb
Leicester to Nottingham train timetable
The journey from Leicester to Nottingham on the fastest train in 21m, usually 32m. Each day, 52 trains leave from Leicester, starting at 01:34 and ending at 23:47. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
19:22 Leicester | 35m, Direct | 19:57 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
19:31 Leicester | 59m, Direct | 20:30 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
19:57 Leicester | 26m, Direct | 20:23 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
20:20 Leicester | 33m, Direct | 20:53 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
20:44 Leicester | 49m, Direct | 21:33 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
Travelling by train from Leicester to Nottingham is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can reach Nottingham in just 21m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Leicester to Nottingham?
Ticket prices from Leicester to Nottingham average around €5.91, 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 fastest train journey time from Leicester to Nottingham is 21m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
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, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.
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?
While Leicester to Nottingham trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Leicester to Nottingham is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
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 Leicester to Nottingham 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?
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 Nottingham route?
The train from Leicester to Nottingham is operated by East Midlands Railway. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.
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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
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 Nottingham train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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Your train was disrupted?
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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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