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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 €18.16. 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 Sat 29 Aug

  • Sat29 Aug
  • €18.16󰄽
    Sun30 Aug
  • €18.16󰄽
    Mon31 Aug
  • €18.16󰄽
    Tue01 Sep
  • €18.16󰄽
    Wed02 Sep
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    Thu03 Sep
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    Fri04 Sep

Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train timetable

From Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester, take the fastest train in 1h 57m, typically 2h 20m. Daily, 40 trains depart from Manchester Piccadilly, with the first at 01:02 and the last at 23:13. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.

DepartsArrivesOperator

06:30

Manchester Piccadilly
2h 41m, 1 change

09:11

Leicester
CrossCountry
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07:12

Manchester Piccadilly
2h 16m, 1 change

09:28

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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07:43

Manchester Piccadilly
2h 20m, 1 change

10:03

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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08:13

Manchester Piccadilly
2h 15m, 1 change

10:28

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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08:43

Manchester Piccadilly
2h 20m, 1 change

11:03

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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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 €18.16
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
74 miles (120km)
Journey time
1h 57m
First train
01:02
Last train
23:13
Frequency
40

EMR vs CrossCountry: Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester

By Daniel Clark | Updated June 9, 2026
There are no direct trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester, but you still have a choice of operators that can get you to the Midlands with only one change. Here’s a comparison to help you choose between the two most popular train operators from Manchester to Leicester.

Train operators

Avg. duration

Departure station

Best for

Feature services

2h 27m

Manchester Piccadilly

Leisure Seekers

Frequent departures, best natural views

CrossCountry

3h 45m

Manchester Piccadilly

First Class Experience

Free onboard Wi-Fi

  • East Midlands Railway is a major operator of popular routes throughout the East Midlands region, with connections to South Yorkshire and London.
  • CrossCountry offers a practical onboard experience across its comprehensive UK network, and provides free Wi-Fi, and comfortable seats as standard.

Train travel from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester

Leicester is a popular destination in the Midlands, whether for a day out by train or for a big night at a music or sports event. To make the most of your trip without the stress of navigating motorways, take the train from Manchester Piccadilly. The distance between the two stations is about 75 miles. Whatever your plans, our local station secrets can help you arrive in style.

Manchester Piccadilly: Getting to the Platform

Conveniently close to Piccadilly Gardens in the south east of Manchester, you’ll likely arrive on foot via Piccadilly Plaza. If you’re approaching from the Northern Quarter, you’ll use the London Road entrance, while the Station Approach entrance is convenient for passengers arriving via tram or bus.
  • Manchester’s free bus: This northern powerhouse city has excellent public transit. To get to Piccadilly Station, make use of the Manchester Metrolink tram system, or hop on a free bus service from the city centre.
  • Station bar: There’s something special about a station bar, and The Mill is definitely one a venue worth visiting. Situated on the upper level of Manchester Piccadilly, this characterful pub offers a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Onboard trains from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester

With one change and various different routes available, your journey from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester can offer different perspectives depending which services you take. Here’s what to look out for on the most popular routes to Leicester.

  • Key Landmarks: On the EMR route that involves a change in Sheffield, you’ll cruise through the Peak District National Park, with stunning natural views of Blacka Moor Nature Reserve, and characterful villages like Edale. If you take the Avanti train west, you’ll change at Nuneaton, while the CrossCountry route will take you to Birmingham.
  • The View Alert: Sit on the Left-Hand Side of the carriage (facing East) for the best Peak District views with EMR, including the iconic Ladybower Reservoir.

Arriving at Leicester

Located on London Road in the heart of the East Midlands’ largest city, Leicester railway station is an ideal starting point to launch your day out. Within a few minutes of the station, you’ll find an inspiring array of independent cafes and bars.

  • Easy exit: A four-platform station, with one main exit, it’s to find your way out of Leicester Station. The platforms are a floor below the main entrance, so you’ll need to climb the stairs, or take the lift to the main concourse.
  • Hop on it: If you prefer to board a bus for onward connections around Leicester, you’ll find a number of travel options directly opposite the railway station. Or for even more choice, Leicester St Margarets is a larger bus station only 10 minutes from the train station. Just like Manchester, Leicester has a free bus service (Hop!) around the city centre too!

Why book Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester trains with TrainPal?

  • Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?

    Unlike Trainline, TrainPal charges no booking fees on any route. On top of that, 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester start from just €18.16 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., Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Northern on the Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.

Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train travel guide

Travelling by train from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Manchester Piccadilly, you can reach Leicester in just 1h 57m, 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester?

Ticket prices from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester average around €18.16, 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester by train?

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 fastest train journey time from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester is 1h 57m. 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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Manchester Piccadilly 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 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?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

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

Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester 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 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

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?

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 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

    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 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 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.

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?

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.

* 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.