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Nottingham to Leicester train ticket prices
£3.89
On Sat 11 Jul
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 23:50. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
19:06 Nottingham | 31m, Direct | 19:37 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
19:59 Nottingham | 31m, Direct | 20:30 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
20:23 Nottingham | 1h 11m, 1 change | 21:34 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
21:09 Nottingham | 31m, Direct | 21:40 Leicester | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
21:51 Nottingham | 31m, Direct | 22:22 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.
Nottingham to Leicester train travel guide
The train journey from Nottingham to Leicester combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Nottingham, you can get to Leicester in just 20m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Nottingham to Leicester?
The average fare from Nottingham to Leicester is approximately £3.89, 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.
What is the best way to travel from Nottingham to Leicester by train?
What is the fastest train from Nottingham to Leicester?
The quickest train journey from Nottingham to Leicester takes 20m . 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 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, 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
How do I find Nottingham to Leicester train timetables?
Nottingham to Leicester trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed 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?
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 train from Nottingham to Leicester is operated by East Midlands Railway. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.
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
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.
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Children
Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 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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