- Must visit
Folkestone Artworks
An outdoor public art collection spread across the town, featuring permanent works by contemporary artists in everyday settings.
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Travel Information
Compare train for Leicester to Folkestone
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Folkestone among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £94 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 32m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £94, while a train costs an average of £94.
Distance: 235 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£94 Average Price Cheapest | £48 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 32m Average total duration Fastest 2h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 17m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Leicester to Folkestone is a train with an average price of £94.
The fastest way to travel from Leicester to Folkestone is by train with an average journey time of 2h 2m.
Yes, you can take a train between Leicester and Folkestone.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1h 15m sooner (2h 2m by train vs 3h 17m by car). Tickets start at around £94 compared to roughly £48 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Folkestone by train
Compare train 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.
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Why should you book Leicester to Folkestone trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Leicester to Folkestone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Folkestone.
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 Folkestone.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester to Folkestone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester to Folkestone run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £94 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:44, the last at 22:01. The fastest train covers the 235 km distance in 2h 14m.
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 235 km |
Average train duration 2h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price £94 |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 2h 14m |
First train 4:44 |
Last train 22:01 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Folkestone trainsEast Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains trains will get you between Leicester and Folkestone from £94. 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 East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 29m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
£49
East Midlands Railway frequency
9 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
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average east_midlands_trains Duration
2h 14m
Cheapest east_midlands_trains Price
£94
east_midlands_trains frequency
12 a day
Complete guide to Folkestone
Things to do in Folkestone
Discover the best of Folkestone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Folkestone trip today.
- Recommended
Folkestone Museum
A local history museum in the old town covering Folkestone's past, from seaside life to wartime and archaeology.
- Recommended
Folkestone Arts
A contemporary art venue in a former church, showing changing exhibitions by British and international artists.
- Must visit
The Leas
A broad clifftop promenade with sea views, gardens and major public artworks, ideal for a classic Folkestone walk.
- Must visit
Folkestone Harbour Arm
A revitalised waterfront pier and promenade popular for strolling, sea air, events and views across the harbour.
- Recommended
Creative Quarter
A creative quarter of lanes and workshops with independent shops, murals and regular cultural events in the old centre.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Fresh Dover sole landed from the Channel, usually simply grilled or pan-fried. It is a Kent coast classic prized for its sweet, delicate flesh.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Whitstable or Kent oysters are widely eaten along this coast, served raw with lemon. They reflect the long shellfish tradition of the Kent shoreline.
Kent Fish Stew
A rich fish stew from Kentish fishing communities, made with mixed local fish and shellfish in a savoury broth. It showcases the catch from nearby waters.
Marleys
Well-known bistro and wine bar in the old high street area, offering seasonal small plates and a cosy, contemporary setting.
Hatch
Popular independent café and brunch spot on the Harbour Arm, serving coffee, breakfasts and casual plates in a lively seaside atmosphere.
The Smokehouse
Long-established seafood smokehouse and deli near the harbour, known for smoked fish, shellfish and simple coastal meals.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town: dining is manageable, but hotels in peak season can rise; local buses are reasonably priced.
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 cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares; cafés may use tip jars, but tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city centre
Folkestone Central -> Folkestone Town Centre
- Distance
- 850 m
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Stagecoach runs Folkestone's local buses. Buy tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app before boarding for quicker travel.
- Folkestone Central is outside the core shopping area; allow about 10 min on foot to Bouverie Place and the town centre.
FAQs: Leicester to Folkestone train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Leicester to Folkestone can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £94, while the average price tends to be around £94.
The train journey from Leicester to Folkestone covers a distance of 235 km and takes approximately 2h 14m. Trains run 10 per day.
The train distance from Leicester to Folkestone is 235 km.
The first train from Leicester to Folkestone leaves at 4:44.
The last train from Leicester to Folkestone departs at 22:01.
Trains from Leicester to Folkestone run approximately 10 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Leicester to Folkestone.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Leicester to Folkestone.
To travel from Leicester to Folkestone, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Leicester to Folkestone.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Folkestone is Leicester station (LEI), and it arrives at Folkestone West (FKW).
The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Folkestone is by train, costing approximately £94.
Booking trains from Leicester to Folkestone 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 Folkestone offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque countryside, charming towns, and historic sites, although it may not be considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK.
A day trip from Leicester to Folkestone is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 14m. Trains run 5 times per day, and the distance is 235 km.
A two to three-day visit to Folkestone is ideal to explore its coastal attractions, enjoy the Creative Quarter, and take leisurely walks along the Harbour Arm.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester to Folkestone.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Leicester and Folkestone
Most Leicester to Folkestone trains use the Leicester to Folkestone West station pair. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Folkestone 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 Folkestone
Which Leicester station do trains to Folkestone leave from?
Trains from Leicester to Folkestone 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 Folkestone station do trains from Leicester arrive at?
Trains from Leicester to Folkestone arrive at Folkestone West. Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre.
Folkestone WestFolkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone West from Folkestone city centre
Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRamsgate - St Pancras International, Faversham - St Pancras International, Margate - Ashford International, Ramsgate - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - London Charing Cross, Ramsgate - Ashford International, Dover Priory - Ashford International, Folkestone Central - London Victoria, Dover Priory - London Cannon Street, Faversham - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - St Pancras International, Sandwich - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - London Charing Cross, Folkestone Central - Ashford International, Dover Priory - London Bridge, Ramsgate - London Bridge, Faversham - London Bridge, Dover Priory - Tonbridge, Deal - St Pancras International, Deal - Ashford International · 2m · £0.90 · every ~5 min
Bus10, 17, 71, 71A · 4m · £3 · every ~21 min
Folkestone West train station facilities and services
Folkestone West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. This station has a degree of step-free access to the platform, which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check details - Step Free access to Platform 1 via main entrance off Shorncliffe Road. Step free access to platform 2 via side entrance off Station Road. Step access between platforms via station subway. Step free Interchange between platforms via steep roads is in excess of 500 metres, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: by entrance to platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Folkestone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Folkestone and Leicester
Most popular train connections to Folkestone
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