Nottingham to Leicester Trains From £4.20*

Take the direct train from Nottingham to Leicester and travel in comfort with trains from East Midlands Railway. The short route takes about 33 min on average, with some services as fast as 20 min.

The train between these two East Midlands cities crosses the River Trent as you set out, before passing through open farmland and ending with views of Leicester’s industrial suburbs.

East Midlands Railway’s network covers the East Midlands region, offering both long-distance and regional train services. Their routes connect major destinations such as London St Pancras International, Derby and Sheffield.

Departing from Nottingham

Nottingham train station is the second-busiest station in the Midlands, conveniently located in the heart of Nottingham city, making it perfect for arriving on foot if you’re starting your journey in the city centre. If you’re coming from further afield, you can make use of the tram and bus services that stop right outside the station.

The station is primarily part of the Midland Mainline, and is served by East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry and Northern trains. These operators provide links to a variety of destinations, including Derby, Leeds, Worksop and Birmingham New Street.

Main stops

The fastest direct trains from Nottingham to Leicester do not call at any stops along the way. Slower services may stop at Beeston, Attenborough, East Midlands Parkway, Loughborough, Barrow upon Soar, Sileby and Syston. Different services will stop at varying stations, so please check the train details for the actual stops.

Arriving at Leicester

Leicester’s historic Victorian train station is the second-busiest in the East Midlands and is ideally located in the city centre, just south-east of the heart of the action. You’ll find routes all across the Midlands from this station, as well as to more major destinations such as Sheffield, Birmingham and London.

Leicester train station’s central location makes it easy to access the many shops and eateries in the vicinity: Highcross Leicester shopping centre is just a stone’s throw away for some light retail therapy.

You’ll also not be far from Leicester’s main attractions, such as the nearby King Richard II Visitor Centre, where you can learn about the King whose body was discovered underneath a car park in 2012.

East Midlands Railway train classes

Nottingham to Leicester trains with East Midlands Railway offer you a choice of two train classes to enjoy.

• Standard Class: EMR’s Standard Class offers comfy seats, with either tables or tray tables and free Wi-Fi. Some trains also provide refreshments.
• First Class: Nottingham to Leicester First Class tickets include more spacious seating with a table, quieter carriages and a catering service from Monday to Saturday.

East Midlands Railway train travel advice

Travel without a hitch from Nottingham to Leicester thanks to our handy guide to EMR trains.

• Luggage: One large luggage item and one small bag are permitted onboard. Luggage racks are reserved for larger suitcases.
• Bicycles: Pre-booking a bike space is advised. Unreserved bikes operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Two bikes only per train. Folding bikes can be stored in luggage compartments. No e-scooters.
• Children: Kids under 5 travel free, and 5–15s travel for half-price. Use Railcards to save on fares with older children, such as the 16–17 Saver Railcard or the 16–25 Student Railcard.
• Pets: Up to two pets travel free. Must be transported in a carrier or on a lead for dogs. Pet(s) must not take up passenger space. Pets are permitted in First Class carriages.
• Passenger Assist: Passengers with additional needs can request help planning and booking their travel, navigating the station and train, and carrying luggage. Can be booked up to two hours before travel.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.