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Sheffield to Leicester train ticket prices

Travelling from Sheffield to Leicester by train? Find fares from as low as £3.50. 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

£3.50󰄽

On Tue 16 Jun

  • £16.50󰄽
    Fri12 Jun
  • £9.10󰄽
    Sat13 Jun
  • £6.80󰄽
    Sun14 Jun
  • £13.90󰄽
    Mon15 Jun
  • Tue16 Jun
  • £3.50󰄽
    Wed17 Jun
  • £9.40󰄽
    Thu18 Jun

Sheffield to Leicester train timetable

Travelling from Sheffield to Leicester, the fastest train takes 53m with an average travel time of 1h 3m. 37 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 04:58 and the last at 23:38. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

18:00

Sheffield
1h 3m, Direct

19:03

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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18:35

Sheffield
54m, Direct

19:29

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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19:00

Sheffield
1h 3m, Direct

20:03

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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19:35

Sheffield
56m, Direct

20:31

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
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20:00

Sheffield
1h 3m, Direct

21:03

Leicester
East Midlands Railway
Find tickets
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Sheffield to Leicester train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Sheffield 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 £3.50
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
53 miles (86km)
Journey time
53m
First train
04:58
Last train
23:38
Frequency
37

East Midlands Railway: Sheffield to Leicester trains

By Mark Wilshin | Updated May 29, 2026
Travel from the city of steel to the city of textiles on a direct East Midlands Railway train from Sheffield to Leicester, arriving in just about one hour. Settle in on board your Sheffield to Leicester train, as you roll past Chesterfield’s crooked spire and through Derbyshire and Leicestershire’s rolling countryside, before arriving into Leicester.
East Midlands Railway (EMR) runs intercity and regional services throughout the East Midlands, connecting London St Pancras International with key cities, including Leicester, Nottingham, Derby, Sheffield and Lincoln, as well as local routes all across the region.

Departing from Sheffield

Just a ten-minute walk from the city centre, Sheffield station is one of the North’s major rail hubs and easy to reach from all across the city by Supertram, bus, taxi, bike or on foot.
Managed by East Midlands Railway, Sheffield station offers direct East Midlands Railway services to London St Pancras, while CrossCountry links the city with destinations including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Plymouth, Reading, York and Newcastle. TransPennine Express connects Sheffield to Liverpool and Cleethorpes, and Northern provides local routes to Manchester, Leeds, Doncaster, Lincolnshire and Scarborough.

Main stops

Sit back and relax as your Sheffield to Leicester train takes you through the historic towns of Chesterfield and Derby before arriving into Leicester.

Arriving at Leicester

Just a ten-minute stroll from the heart of the city, Leicester station puts you within easy reach of historic landmarks, lively shopping streets and the city’s vibrant cultural mix.
Managed by East Midlands Railway, Leicester station makes it easy to continue your journey with buses right outside, a taxi rank by the main entrance and car pick-up points nearby. With East Midlands Railway services running up to four times an hour to London St Pancras, as well as direct trains north to Nottingham, Sheffield and Lincoln, and CrossCountry routes to Birmingham, Cambridge and Stansted Airport, Leicester station is well-connected all across the region.
Venture beyond the station and you’ll discover a city rich in contrasts, where Leicester’s medieval castle and Roman ruins at the Jewry Wall sit alongside cutting-edge architecture, such as the National Space Centre. Famous as the final resting place of King Richard III, Leicester today thrives as a diverse city with championship sport, bustling shopping streets and leafy walks along the River Soar.

East Midland Railway train classes 

  • Standard Class: Relax on your Sheffield to Leicester journey with East Midlands Railway with free Wi-Fi on intercity services, comfortable seating, and at-seat plug sockets. Meridian trains also feature tray tables or shared tables, with a trolley service offering drinks and light snacks on some services.
  • First Class: Please note, there is no first class service available on East Midland Railway’s Sheffield to Leicester route.

East Midland Railway travel advice

Before you set off on your train journey from Sheffield to Leicester, here’s a handy guide covering everything you need to know before you travel – from luggage and bikes to children, pets and accessibility support.
  • Luggage: Passengers may bring up to three items onboard free of charge, including suitcases, backpacks or carry-ons. Bags should be stowed in overhead racks, under your seat, or in luggage areas, keeping aisles and doorways clear.
  • Bicycles: Bikes are welcome onboard all East Midlands Railway services without a reservation, subject to available space. Please use designated bike or luggage areas and make sure access routes, especially to wheelchair spaces, remain clear.
  • Children: Kids under five travel free of charge, while children aged 5-15 get 50% off standard fares when travelling with an adult. Teenagers can also access half-price fares nationwide with a 16-17 Saver railcard.
  • Pets: Passengers can bring up to two pets onboard East Midlands Railway services at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead, and smaller animals should travel in secure carriers. Pets are not allowed on seats.
  • Passenger Assist: If you need help with boarding, carrying your luggage or navigating the station, Passenger Assist can be booked in advance when buying your tickets, through the app, or by asking staff on the day at larger stations.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Sheffield to Leicester train travel guide

Taking the train from Sheffield to Leicester is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Sheffield, you can arrive at Leicester in just 53m, 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 Sheffield to Leicester?

Ticket prices from Sheffield to Leicester average around £3.50, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.

How do I find the best train route from Sheffield to Leicester?

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 Sheffield to Leicester.

What is the fastest train from Sheffield to Leicester?

The fastest train journey time from Sheffield to Leicester is 53m . 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 Sheffield to Leicester?

No, there are no direct trains from Sheffield to Leicester. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip

Is it worth taking a train from Sheffield to Leicester?

Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.

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

Check timetables and during the journey

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

Sheffield 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?

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 Sheffield to Leicester trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Sheffield 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

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone

Which train companies operate the Sheffield to Leicester route?

The train from Sheffield to Leicester is operated by Northern. 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

  • Luggage

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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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 Sheffield 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?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* 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.