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London to Leicester train ticket prices
€23.26
On Fri 25
London to Leicester train timetable
Journey from London to Leicester on the fastest train in 1h 3m, usually 1h 10m. Every day, 65 trains leave from London, starting at 05:15 and ending at 23:55. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
14:02 London St. Pancras International | 1h 3m, Direct | 15:05 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
14:05 London St. Pancras International | 1h 11m, Direct | 15:16 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
14:32 London St. Pancras International | 1h 4m, Direct | 15:36 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
14:35 London St. Pancras International | 1h 11m, Direct | 15:46 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
15:02 London St. Pancras International | 1h 3m, Direct | 16:05 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
London to Leicester train tickets and times
Plan your journey from London to Leicester 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.
London to Leicester with East Midlands Railway: What You Need to Know
When taking the train from London to Leicester, you’ll travel with East Midlands Railway (EMR), a friendly operator with an extensive network throughout the East Midlands and beyond.
How is the onboard experience with East Midlands Railway?
Should I upgrade to First Class with EMR?
Although all EMR seats are comfortable, upgrading to First Class guarantees you the best travel experience. For maximum luxury, First Class increases the comfort, and ensures you’ll have power sockets and free Wi-Fi throughout your journey to the East Midlands. If travelling Monday to Saturday, enjoy complimentary food in First Class.
From which station do direct trains from London to Leicester depart?
From London to Leicester, you’ll be starting out at St Pancras International, one of the capital’s most iconic stations. Your EMR train will get you to Leicester in just over one hour.
Train travel from London to Leicester
If you’re travelling to the best place to live and work in the East Midlands, you want the best transport experience! If you plan ahead with our local station secrets, you’ll be sure to enjoy a stress-free trip. Let’s go!
London St Pancras International: Getting to the Platform
With its world-class facilities and gateway to continental Europe, London St Pancras is a popular station for good reason. Here’s everything you need to know to start your journey in style, from buying a coffee to finding your train.
- Going Underground: Getting to St Pancras is simple thanks to the capital’s fast and efficient Underground network. Arrive at Kings Cross Underground Station on the Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly, or Victoria line. From there, follow signs to St Pancras – no need to leave the station!
- Food and drink: St Pancras is one of the UK’s best provisioned stations, from its grand pianos to its boutique coffee shops. If you have time to spare, browse books in Hatchards, or book an afternoon tea at The Hansom.
- Don’t miss your train!: Trains from London St Pancras to Leicester typically depart from platforms 2, 3 or 4, up the escalators. It’s a few minutes’ walk from the main concourse, so don’t leave it too late to head to the platform if you are enjoying your shopping a bit too much.
Onboard trains from London to Leicester
A journey with no shortage of inspiring sights, the train ride from London to Leicester will pass in the blink of an eye.
- Key Landmarks: Rolling fields abound after you escape London’s expanse of concrete. Look out for the charming riverside town of Bedford, then as you approach your destination, the Leicestershire countryside will turn to Leicester’s own urban sprawl.
- The View Alert: Choose a seat on the Right-Hand Side (facing North) for the best views of Bedford, and other scenic towns and villages.
Arriving at Leicester
A four-platform station, with one main exit, it’s to find your way out of Leicester Station and start your day in the East Midlands’ largest city.
- Easy exit: You’ll likely arrive from London at platform 2. Climb the stairs, or take the lift, to the bridge, where you’ll be able to head straight out into Leicester city centre. Barriers are usually in operation, so be sure to have your tickets ready.
- Where next?: Leicester Station is located on London Road. As a very walkable city, continuing your journey by foot is a great choice. Find several independent cafes and bars minutes from Leicester Station, including Watson’s Bar, known for its great cocktails and live music.
- Free bus: If you prefer to board a bus, head to the bus stop opposite the station. Leicester has a free Hop! service around the city centre, perfect for budget-conscious travellers. A larger bus station (St Margarets) offers more options for travel around Leicestershire, and is only 10 minutes from the train station.
Related travel guides
Why book London to Leicester trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from London to Leicester start from just €23.26 on TrainPal.
Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?
TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., East Midlands Railway on the London to Leicester route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
London to Leicester train travel guide
Travelling by train from London to Leicester is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from London, you can reach Leicester in just 1h 3m, 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 London to Leicester?
The average fare from London to Leicester is approximately €23.26, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.
How do I find the best train route from London to Leicester?
What is the fastest train from London to Leicester?
The fastest train journey time from London to Leicester is 1h 3m. 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 London to Leicester?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from London to Leicester. 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 London to Leicester?
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 London to Leicester trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
London to Leicester trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
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 London to Leicester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from London to Leicester 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?
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?
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
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?
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 London to Leicester route?
The London to Leicester 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
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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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 London to Leicester 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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