Leicester to Birmingham train with CrossCountry

Sat 14 Feb
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CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
1,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Cross Country
Great Western Rail
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leicester to Birmingham

Showing times and prices for 15 Feb

Cheapest price

£13

Average price

£16

Fastest journey

49 m

Average duration

52 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

55 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Leicester to Birmingham will cost around £16 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £13.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Leicester for Birmingham every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 55 km distance in an average of 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 49 m .

The slowest trains will take 55 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
12:200h55
Leicester
13:15Birmingham
£131One-way
0 changes
CrossCountry
10:202h00
Leicester
12:20Birmingham
£141One-way
0 changes
CrossCountry
16:502h00
Leicester
18:50Birmingham
£141One-way
0 changes
CrossCountry
13:500h49
Leicester
14:39Birmingham
£141One-way
0 changes
CrossCountry
11:502h00
Leicester
13:50Birmingham
£211One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Leicester to Birmingham

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Birmingham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £3. For those with little time consider booking a coach which can get you there in 1h 17m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £3, and a train costs an average of £4.

Distance: 55 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£11

Average Price

£8

Average Price

Cheapest

1h 50m

Average total duration

1h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 47m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

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

Leicester to Birmingham train times

The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Birmingham trains for tomorrow, Sunday 15 February. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 13:48
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
cross_country10:20 Leicester
0h55
11:15 Birmingham0 changesdirect
cross_country12:20 Leicester
1h25
13:45 Birmingham0 changesdirect
cross_country12:50 Leicester
0h50
13:40 Birmingham0 changesdirect
cross_country13:20 Leicester
0h55
14:15 Birmingham0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Birmingham 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.

Sun
15 Feb
Mon
16 Feb
Tue
17 Feb
Wed
18 Feb
Thu
19 Feb
Fri
20 Feb
Sat
21 Feb
Sun
22 Feb
Mon
23 Feb
Tue
24 Feb
Wed
25 Feb
Thu
26 Feb
Fri
27 Feb
Sat
28 Feb
Sun
01 Mar
Mon
02 Mar
Tue
03 Mar
Wed
04 Mar
Thu
05 Mar
Fri
06 Mar
Sat
07 Mar

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

The best time to book your train from Leicester to Birmingham is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Leicester to Birmingham route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Leicester to Birmingham 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 Leicester to Birmingham.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Leicester to Birmingham

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Leicester to Birmingham run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £4 but you can travel from only £3 by coach.

There are 7 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.

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 £3
Distance
55 km
Average train duration
1h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
£4
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
48m
First train
04:55
Last train
23:05
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 £3

Train companies: CrossCountry, National Express, Cross Country from Leicester to Birmingham trainsCrossCountry, National Express, Cross Country trains will get you between Leicester and Birmingham from £3. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
48m
Cheapest Price
£3
CrossCountry frequency
7 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

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 10m
Cheapest Price
£5
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
48m
Cheapest Price
£45
Cross Country frequency
25 a day

Trains from Leicester to Birmingham: Journey Details

Getting from Leicester to Birmingham by train is easy with around 35 daily direct services plying the route from around 6:00 a.m. till late at night. The travel time from Leicester London Road to Birmingham New Street stations is around an hour with the fastest service covering the route in 48 minutes.

Taking the Train from Leicester

Trains from Leicester to Birmingham depart from Leicester Railway Station which is managed by East Midlands Trains and just a five minutes walk from the city's main shopping area. The station is well served with buses including the 48 and 80 which run to the university. Another alternative are taxis which can be easily booked to the station.

Getting into Birmingham by Train

As England's second largest city, Birmingham has much to offer the visitor. Once a major manufacturing hub for the East Midlands, today's Birmingham is a cultural centre. It's home to modern museums, galleries, theatre, outstanding shopping, and boasts a world-class symphony orchestra and ballet troupe. Services from Leicester arrive at Birmingham New Street Station, located right in the centre of the city by the Bullring Shopping Centre. Many bus routes pass the station with stops on nearby Smallbrook Queensway and Hill Street. Taxis are plentiful with a rank on Navigation Street outside the Stephenson Street/Victoria Square exit.

FAQs: Leicester to Birmingham train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester to Birmingham 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 Birmingham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Leicester to Birmingham can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £3, while the average price tends to be around £10.
The train journey from Leicester to Birmingham covers a distance of 55 km and takes approximately 48m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Leicester to Birmingham is 55 km.
The first train from Leicester to Birmingham leaves at 4:55.
The last train from Leicester to Birmingham departs at 23:05.
Trains from Leicester to Birmingham run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Leicester to Birmingham.
Yes, there is a direct train between Leicester and Birmingham. The service operates 7 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
To get from Leicester to Birmingham, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Leicester to Birmingham.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Birmingham is Leicester station (LEI), and it arrives at Birmingham New Street (BHM).
The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Birmingham is by coach, costing approximately £3.
Booking trains from Leicester to Birmingham 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 Birmingham offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the English countryside, small towns, and industrial areas. While not renowned for its scenic beauty, it provides a pleasant glimpse of the Midlands region.
Yes, a day trip from Leicester to Birmingham is feasible. The journey takes 48m and covers a distance of 55 km. With a frequency of 7 trains per day, it's convenient for a day visit.
In Birmingham, you can explore the historic Jewellery Quarter, take a canal boat tour, visit the National SEA LIFE Centre, and enjoy a performance at the Birmingham Hippodrome. Discover the city's history at the Birmingham Back to Backs. Don't miss the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, Cadbury World, the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Symphony Hall, and The Bullring for shopping and dining.
To explore Birmingham's key attractions like the Bullring, Cadbury World, and the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, 2-3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester to Birmingham.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Leicester and Birmingham

Leicester
Birmingham
The major train station for departures in Leicester is Leicester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leicester for your trip from Leicester to Birmingham.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:20 - 22:30 Saturday 05:20 - 22:30 Sunday 07:15 - 22:30
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Short stay car park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Main Concourse, Platform 1/2 and Platform 3/4. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1/2 and Platform 3/4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. The radar key is available from the Duty Manager located on the end of Platform 3/4.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Cycle hub situated on the lower floor (old Red Star parcels area) which can be accessed via the lift located to the left of the Customer Information desk. Stands also available in main car park and station front near short stay car park.
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • 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
Public transport options for Leicester
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Coaches leave from the Station front

More options for your journey from Leicester to Birmingham

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Birmingham Leicester to Birmingham train

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