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London Waterloo East to Leicester train timetable
Travelling from London Waterloo East to Leicester, the fastest train takes 1h 51m with an average travel time of 1h 57m. With 122 daily trains, the first departs at 00:53 and the last at 21:42. Off-Peak hours begin at 09:30 on weekdays, and all-day Off-Peak on weekends and bank holidays. Keep informed of live train status, times, delays, and cancellations with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
00:53 London Waterloo East | 5h 44m, 1 change | 06:37 Leicester | Southeastern | Find tickets |
05:34 London Waterloo East | 1h 59m, 2 change | 07:33 Leicester | Southeastern | Find tickets |
06:04 London Waterloo East | 2h 2m, 2 change | 08:06 Leicester | Southeastern | Find tickets |
06:18 London Waterloo East | 2h 2m, 2 change | 08:20 Leicester | Southeastern | Find tickets |
06:35 London Waterloo East | 2h 1m, Direct | 08:36 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
London Waterloo East to Leicester train tickets and times
London Waterloo East to Leicester train travel guide
Travelling by train from London Waterloo East to Leicester is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from London Waterloo East, you can reach Leicester in just 1h 51m, 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 Waterloo East to Leicester?
The average ticket fare from London Waterloo East to Leicester is about €22.99, 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 London Waterloo East to Leicester?
What is the fastest train from London Waterloo East to Leicester?
The fastest train journey time from London Waterloo East to Leicester is 1h 51m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from London Waterloo East to Leicester?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from London Waterloo East to Leicester. 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 London Waterloo East 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?
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
Are London Waterloo East to Leicester trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While London Waterloo East to Leicester 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 London Waterloo East to Leicester 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?
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 London Waterloo East to Leicester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the London Waterloo East to Leicester 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?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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 London Waterloo East to Leicester route?
The route from London Waterloo East to Leicester is operated by Southeastern. 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
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
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website 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
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.
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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 London Waterloo East 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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More train routes
| Trains from London Waterloo East | Trains from Leicester |
|---|---|
| Leicester to London | |
| Leicester to Nottingham | |
| Leicester to Birmingham | |
| Leicester to London St. Pancras International | |
| Leicester to Manchester Piccadilly |
* 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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