No booking fees on the app

Best Price Promise

Delay Repay

24/7 customer support

Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train ticket prices

Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester by train? Find fares from as low as €16.77. 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

€16.77󰄽

On Tue 09 Jun

€23.34󰄽
Sat06 Jun
€35.85󰄽
Sun07 Jun
€27.95󰄽
Mon08 Jun
Tue09 Jun
€37.56󰄽
Wed10 Jun
€26.37󰄽
Thu11 Jun
€27.35󰄽
Fri12 Jun

Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train timetable

The journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester on the fastest train in 2h 8m, usually 3h 33m. Each day, 62 trains leave from Manchester Piccadilly, starting at 05:04 and ending at 23:13. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

Departs		Arrives	Operator
22:03 Manchester Piccadilly	8h 49m, 1 change	06:52 Leicester	CrossCountry	Find tickets
22:30 Manchester Piccadilly	6h 35m, 1 change	05:05 Leicester	East Midlands Railway	Find tickets
23:52 Manchester Piccadilly	6h 19m, 1 change	06:11 Leicester	TransPennine Express	Find tickets

View More Trains

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 €16.77

Departure station

Manchester Piccadilly

Arrival station

Leicester

Distance

74 miles (120km)

Journey time

2h 8m

First train

05:04

Last train

23:13

Frequency

Train operators

Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Northern

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

By Daniel Clark | Updated June 4, 2026

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

The train journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Manchester Piccadilly, you can get to Leicester in just 2h 8m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester?

The average ticket fare from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester is about €16.77, 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.

What is the best way to travel from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester.

What is the fastest train from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester?

The fastest train journey time from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester is 2h 8m . 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester?

No, there are no direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester. 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester?

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?

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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

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 route from Manchester Piccadilly 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?

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

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 route from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester is operated by Avanti West Coast. 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
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
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 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.

󰄽

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?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

More train routes

Trains from Manchester Piccadilly	Trains from Leicester
Manchester Piccadilly to Preston	Leicester to London
Manchester Piccadilly to London	Leicester to Nottingham
Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool Lime Street	Leicester to Kettering
Manchester Piccadilly to Birmingham New Street	Leicester to Birmingham
Manchester Piccadilly to Stoke-on-Trent	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 €16.77*

Save more on your travel: Book Advance tickets and use a Railcard