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Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train ticket prices
€17.18
On Sat 3
Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester train timetable
From Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester, take the fastest train in 1h 36m, typically 2h 45m. Daily, 40 trains depart from Manchester Piccadilly, with the first at 00:54 and the last at 22:30. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
13:03 Manchester Piccadilly | 2h 48m, 1 change | 15:51 Leicester | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
13:25 Manchester Piccadilly | 2h 45m, 1 change | 16:10 Leicester | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
13:34 Manchester Piccadilly | 1h 36m, 1 change | 15:10 Leicester | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
13:43 Manchester Piccadilly | 2h 20m, 1 change | 16:03 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
14:03 Manchester Piccadilly | 2h 48m, 1 change | 16:51 Leicester | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
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.
EMR vs CrossCountry: Travelling from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
East Midlands Railway (EMR) | 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
- 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?
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 €17.18 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., CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast 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
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 1h 36m, 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 €17.18, 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 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, 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, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.
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?
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 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?
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 Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester route?
The route from Manchester Piccadilly to Leicester is operated by CrossCountry. 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
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.
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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
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.
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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
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.
How to buy cheap Manchester Piccadilly 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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