- Must visit
The Higgins Bedford
Bedford's main museum covers local history, archaeology and communities. A strong first stop for understanding the town and wider county.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leicester to Bedford
Showing times and prices for 18 Aug
Cheapest price
£17
Average price
£22
Fastest journey
57 m
Average duration
57 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
72 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester to Bedford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Bedford will cost around £22 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £17.
Fast trains
To travel from Leicester to Bedford you need to make at least one change.
W70685 · C042299:430h57Leicester station (LEI)10:40Bedford station (BDM)£171One-way1 change- W70683 · C042249:120h57Leicester station (LEI)10:09Bedford station (BDM)£171One-way1 change
- W70697 · C0423911:430h57Leicester station (LEI)12:40Bedford station (BDM)£231One-way1 change
- W70691 · C0423510:430h57Leicester station (LEI)11:40Bedford station (BDM)£231One-way1 change
- W70680 · C042228:420h58Leicester station (LEI)9:40Bedford station (BDM)£231One-way1 change
- W70697 · C0423911:430h57Leicester station (LEI)12:40Bedford station (BDM)£231One-way1 change
- W70677 · C042208:130h57Leicester station (LEI)9:10Bedford station (BDM)£321One-way1 change
- W70685 · C042299:430h57Leicester station (LEI)10:40Bedford station (BDM)£171One-way1 change
- W70691 · C0423510:430h57Leicester station (LEI)11:40Bedford station (BDM)£231One-way1 change
- W70683 · C042249:120h57Leicester station (LEI)10:09Bedford station (BDM)£171One-way1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Leicester to Bedford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Bedford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 45m. 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 coach costs an average of £22, and a train costs an average of £14.
Distance: 72 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£26 Average Price | £24 Average Price Cheapest |
1h 15m Average total duration Fastest 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 16m Average total duration 1h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Leicester to Bedford train times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Bedford trains for today, Monday 17 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W70677 · C04220 | On time 8:13 Leicester station (LEI) | 0h57 | 9:10 Bedford station (BDM) | 1 change | |
| W70680 · C04222 | On time 8:42 Leicester station (LEI) | 0h58 | 9:40 Bedford station (BDM) | 1 change | |
| W70683 · C04224 | On time 9:12 Leicester station (LEI) | 0h57 | 10:09 Bedford station (BDM) | 1 change | |
| W70685 · C04229 | On time 9:43 Leicester station (LEI) | 0h57 | 10:40 Bedford station (BDM) | 1 change | |
| W70691 · C04235 | On time 10:43 Leicester station (LEI) | 0h57 | 11:40 Bedford station (BDM) | 1 change | |
| W70697 · C04239 | On time 11:43 Leicester station (LEI) | 0h57 | 12:40 Bedford station (BDM) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Bedford by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
Tue
18 Aug
18 Aug
Wed
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20 Aug
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Fri
21 Aug
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Sat
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Why should you book Leicester to Bedford trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Leicester to Bedford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Bedford.
Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Bedford.
- 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 East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester to Bedford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Bedford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester to Bedford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester to Bedford run on average 8 times per day, taking around 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £14 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:43, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 72 km distance in 40m.
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
Distance 72 km |
Average train duration 45m |
Cheapest ticket price £14 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 40m |
First train 4:43 |
Last train 23:49 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 6 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
Train companies: East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains from Leicester to Bedford trainsEast Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains trains will get you between Leicester and Bedford from £14. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
East Midlands Railway
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
40m
Cheapest Price
£14
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
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
40m
Cheapest Price
£22
east_midlands_trains frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Bedford
Things to do in Bedford
Discover the best of Bedford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bedford trip today.
- Recommended
John Bunyan Museum
Compact museum inside John Bunyan Meeting telling the story of the Bedford writer and preacher. Useful for literary and religious history.
The Eagle Gallery
Small independent gallery showcasing changing contemporary exhibitions. Worth a visit for local creative talent and a quieter art stop in the town centre.
- Must visit
The Embankment
Tree-lined riverside promenade beside the Great Ouse. It is one of Bedford's classic walks, with bridges, memorials and broad views of the water.
- Recommended
Russell Park
Central urban park with lawns, play areas and riverside paths. A practical stop for relaxing between sights and enjoying the water's edge.
- Recommended
Priory Country Park
Spacious park with sports facilities, open grass and access to the river. Popular with locals and useful for a longer walk away from the busiest streets.
Bedford Clanger
A spiced puff pastry turnover filled with curried mutton or beef. Brought by Bedford’s Italian community, it is the town’s best-known speciality.
Sweet Bedford Clanger
The sweet version of the Bedford Clanger, usually filled with jam or apple. It reflects the town’s baking tradition and local lunchbox heritage.
Steak And Kidney Pudding
A rich steamed suet pudding with beef and kidney. A classic English comfort dish long associated with traditional pubs and family cooking in Bedfordshire.
Anatolia
Well-known Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and a lively but polished atmosphere in Bedford town centre.
The River Room
Stylish riverside restaurant and bar serving modern British and European dishes in a relaxed setting by the Great Ouse.
Prego
Established Spanish tapas restaurant known for small plates, sangria and a warm, bustling atmosphere near the centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: stays and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly manageable for most 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
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip around 10% for good service. Taxi tips are optional, often rounding up. Cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Bedford Railway Station -> Bedford Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Most local bus singles in England are capped at £3.00 where participating operators apply the national fare cap; check the operator before travel.
- Stagecoach sells Bedfordshire DayRider day tickets on its official app. Contactless payment is commonly available on buses, but check with the operator before boarding.
FAQs: Leicester to Bedford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester to Bedford 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 Bedford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Leicester to Bedford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £14, while the average price tends to be around £26.
The train journey from Leicester to Bedford covers a distance of 72 km and takes approximately 40m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Leicester to Bedford is 72 km.
The first train from Leicester to Bedford leaves at 4:43.
The last train from Leicester to Bedford departs at 23:49.
Trains from Leicester to Bedford run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Leicester to Bedford.
Yes, there is a direct train between Leicester and Bedford. The service operates 1 times per day, provided by east_midlands_trains.
To get from Leicester to Bedford, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Leicester to Bedford.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Bedford is Leicester station (LEI), and it arrives at Bedford station (BDM).
The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Bedford is by train, costing approximately £14.
Booking trains from Leicester to Bedford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Leicester to Bedford offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, showcasing the English countryside with its rolling fields and occasional small villages, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
Yes, a day trip from Leicester to Bedford is feasible with a travel time of 40m each way. Trains run 6 times per day, covering a distance of 72 km.
To fully explore Bedford's cultural sites, historical landmarks, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester to Bedford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Leicester and Bedford
Most Leicester to Bedford trains use the Leicester to Bedford station pair, with some services arriving at Bedford St Johns. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Bedford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Leicester
Arrival train stations in Bedford
Which Leicester station do trains to Bedford leave from?
Trains from Leicester to Bedford leave from Leicester. The station is 1 km from Leicester city centre at Leicester station, London Road, Leicester, Leicestershire, LE2 0QB.
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.
Which Bedford station do trains from Leicester arrive at?
Trains from Leicester to Bedford most often arrive at Bedford. Some services arrive at Bedford St Johns, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Bedford arrival station.
BedfordBedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS
Bedford train station facilities and services
Bedford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bedford. ATMs are available at Bedford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bedford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is adjacent to the taxi rank at the front of the station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Bedford St JohnsBedford St Johns station, Melbourne Street, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK42 9AN
City-centre transport
Getting to Bedford St Johns from Bedford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesIn the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from the Medbourne Road car park, by the path leading to the platform. Please check the direction of travel before boarding.
Bedford St Johns train station facilities and services
Bedford St Johns has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bedford St Johns.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bedford St Johns: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bedford St Johns: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford St Johns: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Bedford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bedford and Leicester
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