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Nottingham to Leicester train ticket prices
£4.20
On Sat 14 Feb
Nottingham to Leicester train timetable
Travelling from Nottingham to Leicester, the fastest train takes 20m with an average travel time of 42m. 68 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:14 and the last at 23:42. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
13:12 Nottingham | 30m, Direct | 13:42 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
13:17 Nottingham | 46m, 1 change | 14:03 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
13:33 Nottingham | 50m, Direct | 14:23 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
13:50 Nottingham | 21m, Direct | 14:11 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
14:12 Nottingham | 30m, Direct | 14:42 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.
East Midlands Railway: Nottingham to Leicester trains
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.
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
How much does it cost for a train from Nottingham to Leicester?
The average fare from Nottingham to Leicester is approximately £4.20, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific 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, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Nottingham 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 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
How do I find Nottingham to Leicester train timetables?
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?
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?
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?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific 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?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
Which train companies operate the Nottingham to Leicester route?
The Nottingham to Leicester route is operated by East Midlands Railway. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.
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
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.
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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
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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