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Leicester to Stansted Airport train ticket prices

Travelling from Leicester to Stansted Airport by train? Find fares from as low as €8.82. 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

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On Sun 12 Jul

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Leicester to Stansted Airport train timetable

Travelling from Leicester to Stansted Airport, the fastest train takes 2h 37m with an average travel time of 2h 41m. 46 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 08:29 and the last at 21:41. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

08:29

Leicester
2h 40m, 1 change

11:09

Stansted Airport
East Midlands Railway
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08:53

Leicester
2h 46m, 1 change

11:39

Stansted Airport
East Midlands Railway
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09:27

Leicester
2h 42m, 1 change

12:09

Stansted Airport
East Midlands Railway
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09:57

Leicester
2h 58m, 1 change

12:55

Stansted Airport
East Midlands Railway
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10:27

Leicester
2h 42m, 1 change

13:09

Stansted Airport
East Midlands Railway
Find tickets
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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 €8.82
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

Travelling by train from Leicester to Stansted Airport is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Leicester, you can reach Stansted Airport in just 2h 37m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

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 €8.82, 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 Stansted Airport by train?

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, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Leicester to Stansted Airport. 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 Stansted Airport?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

Are Leicester to Stansted Airport trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

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 route from Leicester to Stansted Airport 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

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?

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 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

    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 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

    You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • 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 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.
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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.