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Nottingham to Leicester train ticket prices
€4.75
On Fri 4
Nottingham to Leicester train timetable
The journey from Nottingham to Leicester on the fastest train in 20m, usually 42m. Each day, 67 trains leave from Nottingham, starting at 05:14 and ending at 23:50. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
16:50 Nottingham | 20m, Direct | 17:10 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
17:12 Nottingham | 31m, Direct | 17:43 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
17:17 Nottingham | 47m, 1 change | 18:04 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
17:33 Nottingham | 50m, Direct | 18:23 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
17:50 Nottingham | 20m, Direct | 18:10 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
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.
Nottingham to Leicester with East Midlands Railway: What You Need to Know
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
Nottingham: Getting to the Platform
- 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
- 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
- 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.
Why book Nottingham 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 Nottingham to Leicester start from just €4.75 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., East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry on the Nottingham to Leicester route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
Nottingham to Leicester train travel guide
Travelling by train from Nottingham to Leicester is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Nottingham, you can reach Leicester in just 20m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

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 €4.75, 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 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?
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
Are Nottingham to Leicester trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Nottingham 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?
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 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?
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?
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?
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 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
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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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
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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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 Nottingham 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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