- Must visit
King Richard III Visitor Centre
Modern museum telling the story of Richard III through archaeology, history and the king’s Leicester burial site.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Leicester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 09 Oct
Cheapest price on 09 Oct
£91
Average ticket price on 09 Oct
£139
Fastest journey on 09 Oct
4 h 28 m
Average journey duration on 09 Oct
4 h 36 m
Trains on 09 Oct
16
Distance
392 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Leicester will cost around £139 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £91.
Fast trains
To travel from Edinburgh to Leicester you need to make at least 2 changes.
G08180 · L01628+
G009648:004h49Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)12:49Leicester station (LEI)£911One-way2 changes- G80061+G01186+
C2166612:004h28Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)16:28Leicester station (LEI)£961One-way2 changes - C02006+G009699:305h19Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)14:49Leicester station (LEI)£1011One-way1 change
- G80049 · L01631+G0096910:004h49Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)14:49Leicester station (LEI)£1011One-way2 changes
- C01942+G0097310:305h19Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)15:49Leicester station (LEI)£1011One-way1 change
- G08186+G01184+W707999:004h28Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)13:28Leicester station (LEI)£1151One-way2 changes
- G80055+W29935+W7081011:004h28Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)15:28Leicester station (LEI)£1011One-way2 changes
- G80061+G01186+C2166612:004h28Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)16:28Leicester station (LEI)£961One-way2 changes
- G08180 · L01628+G009648:004h49Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)12:49Leicester station (LEI)£911One-way2 changes
- G80049 · L01631+G0096910:004h49Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)14:49Leicester station (LEI)£1011One-way2 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Leicester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Leicester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £43 but you can travel from only £19 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 00:25, the last at 23:28. The fastest train covers the 392 km distance in 3h 49m.
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
Coach from £19
Distance 392 km |
Average train duration 4h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price £43 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 49m |
First train 0:25 |
Last train 23:28 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
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
Coach from £19
Live departures
Edinburgh to Leicester train times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Leicester trains for today, Thursday 8 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G08180 · L01628+G00964 | 8:00 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4h49 | 12:49 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| W29873+W70796 | 8:08 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4h55 | 13:03 Leicester station (LEI) | 1 change | |
| C02015+G00966 | 8:30 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 5h19 | 13:49 Leicester station (LEI) | 1 change | |
C02015+ W84680+W70799 | 8:30 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4h58 | 13:28 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
 W33933+G00818 | 8:52 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 5h18 | 14:10 Leicester station (LEI) | 1 change | |
W33933+G00793+ C17806 | 8:52 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 5h00 | 13:52 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| G08186+G01184+W70799 | 9:00 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4h28 | 13:28 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| G01148+W70802 | 9:05 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 4h58 | 14:03 Leicester station (LEI) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Edinburgh to Leicester trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as London North Eastern Railway or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Edinburgh to Leicester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Leicester.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Leicester.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Leicester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Leicester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Leicester.
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast from Edinburgh to Leicester trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Edinburgh and Leicester from £19. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
3h 49m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£57
London North Eastern Railway frequency
3 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
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 pets per passenger
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 CrossCountry Duration
3h 59m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£45
CrossCountry frequency
2 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 Avanti West Coast Duration
4h 32m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£43
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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
Complete guide to Leicester
Things to do in Leicester
Discover the best of Leicester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Leicester trip today.
- Recommended
Leicester Museum & Art Gallery
Leicester’s main art and history museum, with dinosaur galleries, fine art and displays on the city’s people and past.
- Recommended
Jewry Wall Museum
Museum beside Roman remains, exploring local archaeology from Roman Leicester to later city history in a compact setting.
- Recommended
St Martin's Square
Lively regenerated waterside with bars, boats, public art and an easy walk linking the city centre to the canal heritage area.
- Recommended
Victoria Park
Large central park with formal gardens, broad lawns and space to relax near the university and city centre.
- Recommended
Abbey Park
Attractive green space around abbey ruins and the River Soar, good for walks, wildlife and traces of medieval Leicester.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Red Leicester Cheese
Red Leicester is a crumbly orange cow’s milk cheese from Leicestershire, long linked to the county and traditionally coloured with annatto for its rich hue.
Melton Mowbray Pork Pie
Melton Mowbray pork pie is a hand-raised pie from Leicestershire with seasoned chopped pork and a distinctive free-form crust, traditionally eaten cold.
- Gluten-free
Stilton
Stilton is a famous English blue cheese historically traded through Leicestershire, prized for its creamy texture and strong savoury flavour on local cheeseboards.
Laguna
Popular Indian restaurant on the Golden Mile known for rich curries, tandoori dishes and a lively, family-friendly atmosphere.
Knight & Garter
Stylish modern British restaurant and bar in St Martins Square, known for seasonal plates, cocktails and a polished but relaxed dining room.
Shivalli
Long-running vegetarian Gujarati restaurant serving thalis, snacks and sweets in a simple, busy setting loved by local families.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK city. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional, often just small change.
Leicester Buses
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city centre
Leicester Railway Station -> Clock Tower, Leicester
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless tap-on and tap-off with fare capping is being introduced across Leicester buses; check the operator or Leicester Buses site for current rollout details.
- Leicester Buses Flexi tickets are valid across participating operators in the Flexi area and can be bought in participating operators’ ticketing apps.
Best day trips from Leicester by train
The most popular day trips by train from Leicester are London, Birmingham, Nottingham, Sheffield and Derby. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Leicester on Omio.
Day trip from Leicester to London by train
Why visit London for the day?
London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.
How to get from Leicester to London by train?
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 143 km distance in 1h 3m.
Day trip from Leicester to Birmingham by train
Why visit Birmingham for the day?
Birmingham is known for its industrial past, canal network and diverse food scene. It combines major shopping and cultural landmarks with lively neighbourhoods shaped by manufacturing, music and modern city life.
How to get from Leicester to Birmingham by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 55 km distance in 48m.
Day trip from Leicester to Nottingham by train
Why visit Nottingham for the day?
Nottingham is known for the Robin Hood legend, its lace-making past and a lively student atmosphere. The compact city blends Nottingham Castle and the Lace Market with independent shops, music and strong sporting traditions.
How to get from Leicester to Nottingham by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 35 km distance in 20m.
Day trip from Leicester to Sheffield by train
Why visit Sheffield for the day?
Sheffield is known for its steelmaking heritage, modern music culture and easy access to green space. It feels both urban and outdoorsy, with Victorian buildings, independent venues and the Peak District nearby.
How to get from Leicester to Sheffield by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:11, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 86 km distance in 52m.
Day trip from Leicester to Derby by train
Why visit Derby for the day?
Derby is an East Midlands city known for rail heritage, advanced engineering and a centre with Georgian and Victorian character. The Silk Mill and Cathedral Quarter connect its Industrial Revolution past with a practical, easy-going atmosphere.
How to get from Leicester to Derby by train?
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 39 km distance in 20m.
FAQs: Edinburgh to Leicester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Edinburgh to Leicester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £43, while the average price tends to be around £115.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Leicester covers a distance of 392 km and takes approximately 3h 49m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Edinburgh to Leicester is 392 km.
The first train from Edinburgh to Leicester leaves at 0:25.
The last train from Edinburgh to Leicester departs at 23:28.
Trains from Edinburgh to Leicester run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Edinburgh to Leicester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Leicester.
There is no night train service from Edinburgh to Leicester.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Leicester is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), and it arrives at Leicester station (LEI).
Booking trains from Edinburgh to Leicester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Leicester offers some scenic views, particularly as it travels through the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the Scottish Borders and Northumberland.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Leicester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Edinburgh and Leicester
Most Edinburgh to Leicester trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Leicester station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Leicester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Edinburgh
Arrival train stations in Leicester
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre
BusUk090 · 12m · £0.89 · every ~32 min
Edinburgh Waverley train station facilities and services
Edinburgh Waverley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
HaymarketHaymarket station, Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH12 5EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Haymarket from Edinburgh city centre
Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Train3m · £0.89
BusN44, N25, 26, 31, 33, 44, 25, 3, 4 · 6m · £0.89 · every ~114 min
N107, N113 · 7m · £0.89
TramT50 · 6m · £4 · every ~30 min
Haymarket train station facilities and services
Haymarket has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Haymarket.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Haymarket: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Leicester station do trains from Edinburgh arrive at?
Trains from Edinburgh to Leicester most often arrive at Leicester. Some services arrive at South Wigston, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Leicester arrival station.
LeicesterLeicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB+44 8457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Leicester from Leicester city centre
BusX7 · 4m · £2 · every ~3 min
16 · 7m · every ~6 min
Hop · 11m · £2 · every ~14 min
Leicester train station facilities and services
Leicester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Leicester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Leicester. ATMs are available at Leicester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Leicester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Leicester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Leicester: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Leicester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A access station. There is step free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. Customers with wheelchairs who require assistance on graduated slopes should press the ticket gate 'assistance' button located at the bottom of the stairs near the self service ticket machines. To ensure availability of staff to assist, it is imperative that customers book assistance in advance. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms and at the bottom of all staircases, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Leicester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leicester and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Leicester
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