No booking fees on the app

No booking fees on the app

Best Price Promise

Best Price Promise

Delay Repay

Delay Repay

24/7 customer support

24/7 customer support

  1. Home
  2. Train Journey
  3. Leicester to Stansted Airport

Leicester to Stansted Airport train ticket prices

Travelling from Leicester to Stansted Airport by train? Find fares from as low as £7.15. 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

£7.15󰄽

On Sun 12 Jul

  • Sun12 Jul
  • £7.15󰄽
    Mon13 Jul
  • £7.15󰄽
    Tue14 Jul
  • £7.15󰄽
    Wed15 Jul
  • £7.15󰄽
    Thu16 Jul
  • £7.15󰄽
    Fri17 Jul
  • £7.15󰄽
    Sat18 Jul

Leicester to Stansted Airport train timetable

The journey from Leicester to Stansted Airport on the fastest train in 2h 37m, usually 2h 41m. Each day, 46 trains leave from Leicester, starting at 08:29 and ending at 21:41. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

08:29

Leicester
2h 40m, 1 change

11:09

Stansted Airport
East Midlands Railway
Find tickets

08:53

Leicester
2h 46m, 1 change

11:39

Stansted Airport
East Midlands Railway
Find tickets

09:27

Leicester
2h 42m, 1 change

12:09

Stansted Airport
East Midlands Railway
Find tickets

09:57

Leicester
2h 58m, 1 change

12:55

Stansted Airport
East Midlands Railway
Find tickets

10:27

Leicester
2h 42m, 1 change

13:09

Stansted Airport
East Midlands Railway
Find tickets
View More Trains

Leicester to Stansted Airport train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Leicester to Stansted Airport 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 £7.15
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
78 miles (125km)
Journey time
2h 37m
First train
08:29
Last train
21:41
Frequency
46

CrossCountry: Leicester to Stansted Airport trains

By Mark Wilshin | Updated May 29, 2026
Whether you’re heading away on holiday or travelling for business, start your journey off on the right track with a direct CrossCountry train from Leicester to Stansted Airport, getting you to the terminal in around two and a half hours.
Travel from Leicester to Stansted Airport by train and unwind as you pass Rutland Water, one of England’s largest reservoirs, the vast fenland plains around Peterborough, and the gentle rolling farmland of Cambridgeshire.
Stretching from Penzance in Cornwall to Aberdeen in Scotland, CrossCountry operates one of Britain’s most extensive long-distance networks, with direct services spanning the country. Centred around Birmingham, CrossCountry connects major cities across the UK, including Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Leeds.

Departing from Leicester station

Just a 10-minute walk from the city centre, Leicester station is the busiest railway station in Leicestershire and a key hub on the Midland Main Line.
From Leicester station, East Midlands Railway runs services south to London St Pancras up to four times an hour, and north to Nottingham, Sheffield and Lincoln, while CrossCountry connects Leicester directly to Birmingham, Cambridge and Stansted Airport.
Combining rich history with modern innovation, Leicester is famous for medieval landmarks such as Leicester Castle, as well as striking modern architecture like the National Space Centre. Known as the resting place of King Richard III, reburied in Leicester Cathedral in 2015, the city also boasts Roman remains at the Jewry Wall. Today, Leicester is also celebrated for its sporting success in football and rugby, as well as its cultural diversity, bustling shopping districts and green spaces along the River Soar.

Main stops

Aboard your scenic Leicester to Stansted Airport train you’ll skirt the edge of Rutland Water, one of England’s largest reservoirs, before passing through Melton Mowbray, Oakham, Stamford, Peterborough, Whittlesea, March and Manea, as well as historic Ely and Cambridge before arriving into Stansted Airport.

Arriving at Stansted Airport

Arriving into London Stansted Airport station, you’ll step straight into the terminal, just a short walk from check-in and departures.
Stansted Airport connects passengers to nearly 200 destinations across 39 countries – from European city breaks in Dublin, Milan and Lisbon, to sunny beach escapes like Ibiza and Bari, plus seasonal charter routes and long-haul flights to Dubai and Barbados. So, whether you’re travelling for business or heading off on holiday, this direct CrossCountry service from Leicester provides a fast and hassle-free link straight to the terminal.

CrossCountry train classes 

  • Standard Class: CrossCountry’s Standard Class offers comfortable travel with free Wi-Fi and accessible seating, plus onboard catering on many routes. So, whether you’re on a long-distance Voyager or a regional Turbostar, you can expect spacious carriages and welcoming service throughout your journey.
  • First Class: Travel from Leicester to Stansted Airport First Class and enjoy wider reclining seats, extra legroom and an at-seat table, ideal for working on the go or simply relaxing. Many services also include complimentary snacks and drinks.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Get ready for your Leicester to Stansted Airport train with these key travel tips, covering everything you need to know from luggage, bikes and children to pets and accessibility support.
  • Luggage: Space is limited on CrossCountry trains, so passengers are advised to travel with just one medium bag where possible. On Voyager services, larger items can be stored in the designated luggage racks in Coaches D and J.
  • Bicycles: Standard and electric bikes are welcome on board CrossCountry services with a free reservation, while folding bikes can travel without one. Please note that e-scooters are not permitted.
  • Children: Kids under five can travel for free, while children aged 5-15 are eligible for 50% off standard adult fares. Families can save even more with a Family & Friends railcard, which gives a third off adult fares and 60% off children’s tickets.
  • Pets: You can bring up to two pets on board CrossCountry trains at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead or in a secure carrier, and all pets must remain off the seats.
  • Passenger Assist: If you need help with boarding, luggage or reserving a wheelchair space, you can book assistance in advance through Passenger Assist or speak to staff at stations on the day of travel.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Leicester to Stansted Airport train travel guide

The train journey from Leicester to Stansted Airport combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can get to Stansted Airport in just 2h 37m, 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 Stansted Airport?

Ticket prices from Leicester to Stansted Airport average around £7.15, 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.

How do I find the best train route from Leicester to Stansted Airport?

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 Stansted Airport.

What is the fastest train from Leicester to Stansted Airport?

The fastest train journey time from Leicester to Stansted Airport is 2h 37m. 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 Stansted Airport?

No, there are no direct trains from Leicester to Stansted Airport. 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 Stansted Airport?

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?

To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find Leicester to Stansted Airport train timetables?

Leicester to Stansted Airport 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?

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 Stansted Airport trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Leicester to Stansted Airport 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?

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, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

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?

Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone

Which train companies operate the Leicester to Stansted Airport route?

The route from Leicester to Stansted Airport is operated by CrossCountry. 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

    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.

  • 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

    Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 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 Stansted Airport 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.
󰄶
󰄽

Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

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.