Manchester to Leicester train with East Midlands Trains

Tue, Dec 09
+ Add return
East Midlands Trains
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
TransPennine Express
Northern Rail (3)
1,000+ travel companies
East Midlands Trains
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
TransPennine Express
Northern Rail (3)
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Leicester

Showing times and prices for Dec 09

Cheapest price

€38

Average price

€45

Fastest journey

1 h 35 m

Average duration

2 h 2 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

119 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Manchester to Leicester will cost around €45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €38.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Manchester for Leicester on Tue, Dec 09, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Dec 09 the direct trains cover the 119 km distance in an average of 2 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 35 m .

On Tue, Dec 09 the slowest trains will take 2 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

CrossCountry
08:03AM2h48
Manchester
10:51AMLeicester
381One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
11:03AM2h48
Manchester
01:51PMLeicester
381One-way
0 transfers
East Midlands Trains
07:43AM2h20
Manchester
10:03AMLeicester
411One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
04:03PM2h47
Manchester
06:50PMLeicester
551One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
07:03AM2h48
Manchester
09:51AMLeicester
551One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Manchester to Leicester

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 3m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €8, and a train costs an average of €19.

Distance: 119 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus

€47

Average price

€18

Average price

Cheapest

2h 33m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 55m

Average total duration

3h 25m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

East Midlands Trains

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Manchester to Leicester train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Leicester trains for today, Monday, December 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 11:20 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
cross_country12:03 PM Manchester
2h48
2:51 PM Leicester0 transfersDirect
cross_country2:25 PM Manchester
2h40
5:05 PM Leicester0 transfersDirect
Tuesday, December 9
transpennine_express6:12 AM Manchester
2h17
8:29 AM Leicester0 transfersDirect
avanti_west_coast8:35 AM Manchester
1h37
10:12 AM Leicester0 transfersDirect
cross_country11:03 AM Manchester
2h48
1:51 PM Leicester0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Leicester by train or bus

Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Mon
Dec 08
Wed
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11
Fri
Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13
Mon
Dec 15
Tue
Dec 16
Thu
Dec 18
Fri
Dec 19
Sat
Dec 20
Mon
Dec 22
Fri
Dec 26
Sat
Dec 27
Sun
Dec 28

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Manchester to Leicester?

The best time to book your train from Manchester to Leicester is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Manchester to Leicester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Manchester to Leicester per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Manchester to Leicester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Leicester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to Leicester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €19 but you can travel from only €8 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:49, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 119 km distance in 2h 3m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €8
Distance
119 km
Average train duration
2h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
€19
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
2h 3m
First train
01:49
Last train
23:56
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €8

Train companies: East Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Rail (3), West Midlands Trains, first_transpennine_express, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country from Manchester to Leicester trainsEast Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Rail (3), West Midlands Trains, first_transpennine_express, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Manchester and Leicester from €8. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

East Midlands Trains

About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 8m
Cheapest Price
€13
East Midlands Trains frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
€26
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
€79
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

TransPennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest Price
€19
TransPennine Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Northern Rail (3)

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
€29
Northern Rail (3) frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
€79
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

first_transpennine_express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 15m
Cheapest Price
€62
first_transpennine_express frequency
4 a day

east_midlands_trains

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
€56
east_midlands_trains frequency
6 a day

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest Price
€152
Cross Country frequency
7 a day

FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Leicester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Leicester by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Leicester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap train tickets from Manchester to Leicester can start from as little as €18 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Manchester to Leicester is €50; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by train from Manchester to Leicester is 1 h 35 min   to travel the 119 km long route, with around there are 7 trains per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Manchester to Leicester leaves at 04: 04. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last train from Manchester to Leicester leaves at 23: 52.
There are 7 trains a day from Manchester to Leicester which require at least one change with East Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Rail (3), West Midlands Trains, east_midlands_trains or first_transpennine_express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
Yes, there's a high-speed train to Leicester. Take the fast train with East Midlands Trains from Manchester to Leicester.
When taking a train from Manchester to Leicester, you can count on East Midlands Trains, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Rail (3), West Midlands Trains, east_midlands_trains or first_transpennine_express for the best way to get you to Leicester. You can also check all possible train providers who offer a service from Manchester to Leicester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a train ticket.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 23: 52.
A day trip to Leicester from Manchester is worth doing with a journey time of 1 h 35 min each way. Check with Omio app   the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Manchester to Leicester is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Manchester to Leicester including taking a train or coach.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Manchester to Leicester

Manchester
Leicester
The major train station for departures in Manchester is Ardwick. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Ardwick for your trip from Manchester to Leicester.
ArdwickParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: No
  • Step free access note: Category C station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station Through a gate on Blind Lane, along a path (68 paces, 1:10 slope), up 23 steps and along the path (61 paces), up 32 steps across the footbridge (17 paces) and down 31 steps onto the platform.
  • Accessible taxis: contact Customer Relations 08002006060
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: Station Entrance
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Ardwick
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Junction of Devonshire Street North and Blind Lane
  • Metro: GMPTE 0161 228 7811
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:20 - 23:40 Sunday 08:10 - 23:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category A station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station From Whitworth Street, up a ramp (43 paces, 1:25 slope) and level access through the entrance into the foyer. Or from the junction of Chester Road, Whitworth Street and Deansgate, level access through the entrance, along the corridor and up 21 steps into the foyer. Then, to Manchester: Past the ticket office, via the lift in the foyer. Or up a ramp (34 paces), up 17 steps onto the platform. To Bolton, Warrington and Wigan : Via the lift in the foyer or along the subway (26 paces), up a ramp (32 paces) and up 18 steps onto the platform. Level access to Manchester platform also via overbridge from Metrolink G-Mex Metrolink stop. Lift available first to last train, currently 06:20 - 23:40 Monday to Saturday. 08:10 - 23:30 Sunday.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Deansgate
  • Onward travel information: Free Metro shuttle bus link from station front serving Manchester City centre including Victoria Station On both sides of Whitworth Street, Deansgate and Chester Road for buses to Piccadilly Gardens, Altrincham or Sale. Contact Busline 0871 200 2233
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at bus stops on Whitworth St.
  • Metro: Metrolink G-Mex tram stop linked by footbridge from Manchester platform. 0161 228 7811
East DidsburyWifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
  • 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
  • 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
8 km
platformCount
Number of platforms
2
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7, accessible via Wilmslow Road.
Dining
Dining
  • The Didsbury
  • The Gateway
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Ramps.
WC
WC
  • £0.30
Hotel
Hotel
  • Travelodge Manchester Didsbury
  • Premier Inn Manchester Didsbury
  • Eleven Didsbury Park Hotel
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located near the ticket office
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: entrance and ticket office
  • Hall 2: access to platforms
Public transit options for East Didsbury
  • Tram: Metrolink East Didsbury Line
  • Bus: Several lines available including 42, 142, 50
HomeTrainsTrain Times to LeicesterManchester to Leicester train

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