Train travel to Leicester guide

Updated May 9, 2026

Leicester Station, originally opened in 1840, is a historic railway station in the heart of Leicester’s city center. The station has been rebuilt twice, now showcasing a late Victorian frontage complete with a statue of Thomas Cook, commemorating the pioneer of modern tourism. A pedestrian bridge at the station’s north end connects passengers to long-term parking and Campbell Street.

As a major transport hub, Leicester Station provides direct services via East Midlands railway to London St Pancras International and CrossCountry trains to Birmingham New Street and Stansted Airport. These direct routes make travel convenient for both commuters and visitors.

Nearby Leicester Station, visitors can easily access attractions such as Leicester Cathedral, just a short walk away, known for its stunning architecture and its connection to King Richard III. Another nearby highlight is the King Richard III Visitor Centre, which tells the story of the king's life and his rediscovery in a Leicester car park.

Which train companies run trains to Leicester?

Providers that offer services to and from Leicester include: CrossCountry, Thameslink and East Midlands Railway. Please note that journey duration and price can vary depending on who you travel with.

What are Leicester's opening hours?

Typically 0:03 to 23:58, which are when the first and last train depart, though we recommend double checking this on the day.

Pick up & drop off at Leicester

Leicester provides parking and pick-up/drop-off services for convenient travel.

Connectivity of the Leicester?

London, Birmingham, Nottingham, Birmingham New Street and London St Pancras International are just a few popular locations that run services to and from Leicester. Frequent buses and taxi services are also available from the station, though we recommend researching prior to your journey to be sure.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Leicester live timetable

Our live timetable provides real-time information on train schedules and services for passengers travelling to and from Leicester, check now to plan your next journey.

  • Departures

  • Arrivals

TrainTimeDurationTrain OperatorStatus
Leicester to Birmingham New Street22:5645mCrossCountryOn time
Leicester to Derby23:3731mEast Midlands RailwayOn time
Leicester to Nottingham23:4740mEast Midlands RailwayOn time
Leicester to Derby01:0342mEast Midlands RailwayOn time
Leicester to Nottingham01:2831mEast Midlands RailwayOn time
TrainTimeDurationTrain OperatorStatus
Stansted Airport to Leicester22:552h 35mCrossCountryOn time
Birmingham New Street to Leicester23:181hCrossCountryOn time
London St. Pancras International to Leicester23:361h 4mEast Midlands RailwayOn time
London St. Pancras International to Leicester23:461h 12mEast Midlands RailwayOn time
Nottingham to Leicester23:5535mEast Midlands RailwayOn time

Station Details

Address:

Leicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB

Ticket Office opening hours::

Monday to Friday open from 05:20:00 until 22:30:00

Saturday open from 05:20:00 until 22:30:00

Sunday open from 07:15:00 until 22:30:00

Ticket Machine:

Available

Facilities

Toilets

Toilets

WiFi

WiFi

Shops

Shops

Station Buffet

Station Buffet

ATM

ATM

Bicycle Facilities

Cycle storage

Cycle storage CCTV

Cycle storage notes

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