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Leicester to Nottingham train ticket prices
€3.74
On Sat 18 Apr
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 01:51 and the last at 23:46. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
06:16 Leicester | 50m, Direct | 07:06 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
06:41 Leicester | 35m, Direct | 07:16 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
07:18 Leicester | 35m, Direct | 07:53 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
07:39 Leicester | 50m, Direct | 08:29 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
07:52 Leicester | 29m, Direct | 08:21 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 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
How much does it cost for a train from Leicester to Nottingham?
The average ticket fare from Leicester to Nottingham is about €3.74, 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 Nottingham?
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, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Leicester to Nottingham. 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 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?
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
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?
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 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?
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 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
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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
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.
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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
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.
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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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* 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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