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Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train ticket prices

Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester by train? Find fares from as low as €20.92. 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

€20.92󰄽

On Fri 15 May

€32.60󰄽
Tue12 May
€37.58󰄽
Wed13 May
€28.71󰄽
Thu14 May
Fri15 May
€28.34󰄽
Sat16 May
€32.60󰄽
Sun17 May
€29.92󰄽
Mon18 May

Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train timetable

The journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester on the fastest train in 1h 36m, usually 2h 40m. Each day, 63 trains leave from Manchester Piccadilly, starting at 04:55 and ending at 23:20. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

Departs		Arrives	Operator
19:14 Manchester Piccadilly	2h, 1 change	21:14 Leicester	Avanti West Coast	Find tickets
19:25 Manchester Piccadilly	2h 26m, 2 change	21:51 Leicester	CrossCountry	Find tickets
19:43 Manchester Piccadilly	2h 20m, 1 change	22:03 Leicester	East Midlands Railway	Find tickets
20:25 Manchester Piccadilly	2h 53m, 1 change	23:18 Leicester	CrossCountry	Find tickets
20:43 Manchester Piccadilly	2h 8m, 1 change	22:51 Leicester	East Midlands Railway	Find tickets

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Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Manchester Piccadilly 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.

Price

From €20.92

Departure station

Manchester Piccadilly

Arrival station

Leicester

Distance

74 miles (120km)

Journey time

1h 36m

First train

04:55

Last train

23:20

Frequency

Train operators

Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Northern

Avanti West Coast and CrossCountry: Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester by train

Travelling from Manchester to Leicester by train is a convenient and affordable way to travel between these two major English cities.

With just one change, you can make the journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester in only 1 hour 35 minutes. Tickets start from £8.40 for efficient, frequent services that get you to the largest city in the East Midlands for less.

Whether it’s a work trip, a music or sports event, or something else, taking the train from Manchester to Leicester is the ideal way to start your day out in style. Along the route, you’ll skirt the Peak District National Park, as well as whizzing through miles of Midlands countryside.

Avanti West Coast is a premium provider of high-speed service on the West Coast Main Line. The operator’s trains include direct routes between some of the UK’s most popular cities, including London, Glasgow, Liverpool, Birmingham, and Manchester.

CrossCountry runs trains across England, Scotland, and Wales between major cities like Manchester, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Leeds, and Birmingham.

Departing from Manchester Piccadilly

Manchester Piccadilly is a significant regional rail terminus in the northwest of England. The station has all the amenities required for a comfortable pre-departure experience, from accessible toilets to refreshment counters.

Standard Class passengers can relax in well-provisioned waiting areas, while Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester First Class travellers can enjoy the luxury of waiting in the Avanti West Coast First Class Lounge. Opening hours for the First Class Lounge are 06:00–19:30 (Monday to Friday), with slightly later opening and earlier closing at the weekend.

Handily located to the south of the city, just a few minutes’ walk from Piccadilly Gardens, getting to the station is simple. Travel on reliable local bus routes that drop you off directly outside the station, or use the Manchester 'Metrolink' tram network for convenient city-centre connections.

Manchester Piccadilly takes passengers around the UK on high-speed services operated by TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern, and East Midlands Railway. From the station, passengers can easily get to London Euston, Sheffield, Norwich, and Liverpool Lime Street, among other major destinations.

Main stops

The fastest route from Manchester to Leicester is usually to take the Avanti West Coast service from Manchester Piccadilly to Nuneaton, followed by a short train to Leicester with CrossCountry.

Start on an Avanti service to Nuneaton, which will call at Stockport, and Stoke-On-Trent, before you disembark in Nuneaton. Then, switch to a CrossCountry train directly to Leicester with no stops until you reach your destination.

Arriving at Leicester Station

Leicester is the most populous city in the East Midlands and Leicester Station is one of the busiest in the Midlands.

Centrally located in the heart of the city, regular buses are available to board from outside the rail station to take you to the city centre. To go further afield, Leicester St Margaret's Bus Station has a greater range of bus options around Leicestershire and beyond. Bicycle and e-scooter hire can provide a convenient way to get around the city, while Leicester is also very walkable thanks to pedestrianised areas and scenic canal routes.

Managed by East Midlands Railway, Leicester Station has all the modern amenities and accessibility features of a major station. If you need to rest before leaving the station, there are sheltered waiting areas, plus refreshments and shops for every taste. To get from the train to the exit, Leicester Station has step-free access from all platforms.

From Leicester Station, board train services to London St Pancras, Sheffield, Nottingham, Birmingham, Manchester with East Midlands Railway or CrossCountry. and regional routes to Lincoln, Peterborough, and Derby. CrossCountry also operates services linking Leicester to cities across its national network.

Avanti West Coast train classes

Standard Class: Choose Standard Class tickets for the cheapest tickets from Manchester to Leicester by train with Avanti West Coast. Enjoy comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, plug sockets at some seats, and access to an onboard shop where you can buy snacks and drinks.
Standard Premium: For a little more style on your journey, upgrade to Avanti West Coast Standard Premium tickets, which offer a more spacious travel experience. As well as extra legroom, you get a guaranteed table at every seat.
First Class: If you want the highest-quality onboard experience, a First Class Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester ticket is for you. At a premium price, sit back and relax in more comfortable seats. Benefit from exclusive access to the First Class Lounge in Manchester Piccadilly before you depart, and complimentary food and drinks during your journey.

CrossCountry train classes

Standard Class: Affordable train travel from Manchester to Leicester comes with a modern travel experience on CrossCountry trains. You’ll find plug sockets for charging at your seat, optional tables, and free onboard Wi-Fi.
First Class: To make your trip extra special, Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester First Class tickets give you reclining seats, and individual tables on the CrossCountry leg of your journey.

Avanti West Coast train travel advice

Avanti West Coast offers generous luggage allowances, as well as options for passengers wanting to travel with pets or bikes. If you are changing to a different operator for the second leg of your journey, be sure to check their requirements too.

Children: Under 5s travel free, while children aged 5 to 15 get half-price standard fare tickets. Family days out are cheaper with a Family & Friends Railcard, which offers ⅓ off group rail travel for a whole year.
Passenger Assist: Travellers with additional needs for their journey can arrange assistance from Avanti West Coast before boarding. Ask for support boarding the train, reserving wheelchair spaces, or anything else.
Luggage: Bring up to three pieces of luggage on Avanti services for free, up to a maximum bag size of 30 x 70 x 90 cm.
Pets: Travel with up to two domestic animals on Avanti West Coast trains at no extra cost. Remember to keep pets on a lead or in a carrier throughout the journey.
Bicycles: Spaces for bikes must be booked in advance (only for standard bikes, tandems and e-bikes). Folding bikes count as luggage.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Children: Bring the little ones from Manchester to Leicester without spending more on your day out! Under 5s go free on all National Rail trains when accompanied by a fare-paying adult, and children aged 5 to 15 can travel with a 50% discount.
Passenger Assist: For help with your journey, book support at least two hours in advance. If you’ll need support for the CrossCountry part of your journey, use that provider’s website, Passenger Assistance App, or phone to arrange assistance.
Luggage: No tight luggage restrictions with CrossCountry! Carry up to three items of luggage onto the train at no extra cost (one small bag, one cabin-size case, and one large suitcase).
Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals are welcome onboard CrossCountry trains to Leicester. Remember: only two pets per passenger, and they must be held on a lead or in a secure carrier.
Bicycles: To bring a bike from Manchester to Leicester, reserve a space online before travel.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train travel guide

Taking the train from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Manchester Piccadilly, you can arrive at Leicester in just 1h 36m, 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester?

Ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester average around €20.92, 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester.

What is the fastest train from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester?

The quickest train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester takes 1h 36m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.

Are there direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Manchester Piccadilly 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 Manchester Piccadilly 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

How do I find Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train timetables?

While Manchester Piccadilly 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 Manchester Piccadilly 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?

It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.

Do Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Manchester Piccadilly 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?

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?

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?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester route?

The train from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester is operated by Avanti West Coast. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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
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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

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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.

More train routes

Trains from Manchester Piccadilly	Trains from Leicester
Manchester Piccadilly to London	Leicester to London
Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street	Leicester to Nottingham
Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street	Leicester to Kettering
Manchester Piccadilly to Stoke-on-Trent	Leicester to Birmingham
Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool	Leicester to London St. Pancras International

* 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.

Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester Trains From €20.92*

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