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Nottingham to Leicester train ticket prices

Travelling from Nottingham to Leicester by train? Find fares from as low as €4.78. 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

€4.78󰄽

On Tue 21 Jul

  • €5.19󰄽
    Sat18 Jul
  • €6.05󰄽
    Sun19 Jul
  • €9.88󰄽
    Mon20 Jul
  • Tue21 Jul
  • €9.88󰄽
    Wed22 Jul
  • €7.16󰄽
    Thu23 Jul
  • €7.16󰄽
    Fri24 Jul

Nottingham to Leicester train timetable

The journey from Nottingham to Leicester on the fastest train in 20m, usually 33m. Each day, 64 trains leave from Nottingham, starting at 05:19 and ending at 23:18. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

21:42

Nottingham
27m, Direct

22:09

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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21:46

Nottingham
49m, Direct

22:35

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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23:20

Nottingham
35m, Direct

23:55

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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23:50

Nottingham
5h 28m, 1 change

05:18

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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Nottingham to Leicester train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Nottingham 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 €4.78
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
22 miles (36km)
Journey time
20m
First train
05:19
Last train
23:18
Frequency
64
Train operators

Nottingham to Leicester with East Midlands Railway: What You Need to Know

By Daniel Clark | Updated June 4, 2026

When taking the train from Nottingham to Leicester, you’ll travel with East Midlands Railway (EMR), a reliable operator with an extensive network.

How is the onboard experience with East Midlands Railway?

In Standard Class, passengers can expect practicality and comfort. Find toilets on every train, plus a trolley service subject to availability. EMR is known for its wide and well-supported seats, and will have access to essential travel amenities.

Should I upgrade to First Class with EMR?

Upgrading to First Class guarantees you the best travel experience with EMR. First Class increases the comfort, and ensures you’ll have power sockets and free Wi-Fi throughout your journey.

How long is the journey from Nottingham to Leicester?

The route can take just 20 minutes at the quickest times, though slower services with more stops can take up to 50 minutes. Check ahead and book advance tickets to personalise your travel experience.

Train travel from Nottingham to Leicester

If you plan your trip to Leicester using our local station secrets, you’ll get more from your journey. The route from Nottingham to Leicester is only 22 miles.

Nottingham: Getting to the Platform

Frequent Nottingham City Transport (NCT) buses and Nottingham Express Transit trams offer excellent connectivity to the station. Passengers can reach Nottingham Station easily with a multi-operator ticketing system for the bus and tram available through the Robin Hood Network.
  • While you wait: Nottingham has accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities, and vending machines. Sheltered platform waiting areas with accessible seating can be found on all platforms. If you're thirsty, buy a drink from Costa in the main concourse area, or use free water refill points.
  • Platform: Most trains to Leicester leave Nottingham Station from platforms 4, 5, 6 or 7. Depending on the time of day and the exact route, you’ll need to go to a different platform, so be sure to check information boards before you travel.

Onboard trains from Nottingham to Leicester

Between these two iconic Midlands cities, you’ll see some scenic nature, small villages, as well as a notable town in Loughborough
  • Key Landmarks: Notable sights on your route include Attenborough Nature Reserve, an impressive 226-hectare reserve just past Beeston. Near the start of your journey, you’ll also track the River Trent as it winds southwards.
  • The View Alert: For the best natural views throughout your trip, choose a seat on the Left-Hand Side of the carriage (facing South).

Arriving at Leicester

Leicester Station is located on London Road in the heart of the city voted the best place to live and work in the East Midlands. Leicester is a compact city, so continuing your journey by foot is efficient. Find several independent cafes and bars minutes from Leicester Station, including Watson’s Bar, known for its cocktails and lively atmosphere.
  • Exit into Leicester: Leicester is a four-platform station, with one main exit, so it shouldn’t be difficult to find your way out. Climb the stairs, or take the lift, to the bridge, where you’ll be able to access Leicester city centre. Note: barriers are usually in operation, so be sure to have your tickets ready.
  • Buses from Leicester Station: The bus stop opposite the station is served by a free Hop! bus around the city centre. A larger bus station (St Margarets) offers more options for travel into nearby villages. Walk to St Margarets in just 10 minutes from Leicester train station. 

Nottingham to Leicester train travel guide

Taking the train from Nottingham to Leicester is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Nottingham, you can arrive at Leicester in just 20m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

The average ticket fare from Nottingham to Leicester is about €4.78, 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 Nottingham 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 Nottingham to Leicester.

What is the fastest train from Nottingham to Leicester?

The fastest train journey time from Nottingham to Leicester is 20m . 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 Nottingham to Leicester?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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?

Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

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

While Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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 Nottingham to Leicester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Nottingham 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?

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

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 Nottingham to Leicester route?

The route from Nottingham to Leicester is operated by East Midlands Railway. 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

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.

  • Bicycle

    You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.

  • 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

    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 Nottingham 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?

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?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* 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.