- Must visit
Ipswich Museum
Ipswich’s main museum with natural history, archaeology and local collections, including Egyptian objects and displays on Suffolk’s past.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leicester to Ipswich
Showing times and prices for 01 Aug
Cheapest price
£70
Average price
£101
Fastest journey
3 h 2 m
Average duration
3 h 20 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
168 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester to Ipswich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Ipswich will cost around £101 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £70.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Leicester for Ipswich every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 168 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 2 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 46 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.
7:033h02Leicester10:05Ipswich£701One-way0 changes
7:143h46Leicester11:00Ipswich£981One-way0 changes
5:543h11Leicester9:05Ipswich£1351One-way0 changes
- 7:033h02Leicester10:05Ipswich£701One-way0 changes
- 5:543h11Leicester9:05Ipswich£1351One-way0 changes
- 7:143h46Leicester11:00Ipswich£981One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Leicester to Ipswich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 40m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £38, and a train costs an average of £38.
Distance: 168 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£98 Average Price | £51 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 10m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 48m Average total duration 5h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg 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 Ipswich train times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Ipswich trains for today, Friday 31 July. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:15 Leicester | 3h13 | 12:28 Ipswich | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Ipswich by coach or train
Compare coach and 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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01 Aug
01 Aug
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02 Aug
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03 Aug
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04 Aug
04 Aug
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05 Aug
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07 Aug
07 Aug
Why should you book Leicester to Ipswich trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Greater Anglia or east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Leicester to Ipswich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Ipswich.
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 Greater Anglia or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Ipswich.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester to Ipswich.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greater Anglia or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Ipswich.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Ipswich.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester to Ipswich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester to Ipswich run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £38 but you can travel from only £38 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:47, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 168 km distance in 3h 2m.
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 £38
Distance 168 km |
Average train duration 2h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price £38 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 2m |
First train 4:47 |
Last train 21:23 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £38
Train companies: CrossCountry, Greater Anglia, east_midlands_trains from Leicester to Ipswich trainsCrossCountry, Greater Anglia, east_midlands_trains trains will get you between Leicester and Ipswich from £38. 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
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
£49
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
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 2m
Cheapest Price
£70
Greater Anglia frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
£78
east_midlands_trains frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Ipswich
Things to do in Ipswich
Discover the best of Ipswich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ipswich trip today.
- Must visit
Christchurch Mansion
Gallery in Christchurch Mansion showing works by Constable and Gainsborough, plus changing exhibitions in a historic setting.
- Recommended
The Hold: Ipswich Waterfront
Museum on the redeveloped docks telling the story of Ipswich’s maritime trade, industry and local life through interactive displays.
- Must visit
Ipswich Waterfront
Lively regenerated marina with quayside walks, historic warehouses and wide views; ideal for a relaxed stroll by the water.
- Must visit
Christchurch Park
Large public park with formal gardens, ponds and open lawns around Christchurch Mansion; a favourite green escape near the centre.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Historic square at the civic heart of Ipswich, framed by notable buildings and often used for markets, events and seasonal displays.
Suffolk Sausage
A hearty Suffolk pork sausage, traditionally seasoned with sage and pepper. It is a long-standing county speciality often served with mash or in a sandwich.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Ham
Cured ham from Suffolk, usually dry-cured and sliced thin. It reflects the county’s strong pork-curing tradition and is a popular local deli staple.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Herring
Smoked herring from the nearby Suffolk coast, especially linked with Lowestoft. Traditionally eaten for breakfast or in fish dishes with a deep smoky flavour.
Melekzade
Well-known Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and warm service in a lively yet comfortable dining room.
Indian Knight
Established Indian restaurant known for refined curries and attentive service in an elegant setting.
The Last Anchor
Stylish marina restaurant serving modern British food, steaks and seafood in a relaxed waterfront setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate by UK standards. Hotels and dining cost less than London, while buses and casual meals are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a basic lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; otherwise tip about 10% for good service. Taxi fares can be rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.
Ipswich Bus App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.30
- Day pass
- £4.40
To the city centre
Ipswich Railway Station -> Ipswich Town Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Ipswich Buses Town fares currently include a £2.30 single and £4.40 day ticket in the town zone. Buy in the official app for mobile tickets.
- Ipswich Railway Station is about a 10–15 minute walk from the town centre. Buses and taxis also leave from the station forecourt.
FAQs: Leicester to Ipswich train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Leicester to Ipswich can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £38, while the average price tends to be around £98.
The train journey from Leicester to Ipswich covers a distance of 168 km and takes approximately 3h 2m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Leicester to Ipswich is 168 km.
The first train from Leicester to Ipswich leaves at 4:47.
The last train from Leicester to Ipswich departs at 21:23.
Trains from Leicester to Ipswich run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Leicester to Ipswich.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Leicester to Ipswich.
To get from Leicester to Ipswich, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Leicester to Ipswich.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Ipswich is Leicester station (LEI), and it arrives at Ipswich station (IPS).
The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Ipswich is by coach, costing approximately £38.
Booking trains from Leicester to Ipswich 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 Ipswich offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the English countryside, including fields and small villages, providing a pleasant and moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Leicester to Ipswich is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 2m each way. However, there are 6 trains per day available for this route.
In Ipswich, you can enjoy a variety of activities such as catching a performance at the New Wolsey Theatre, exploring the scenic walking trails at Orwell Country Park, or learning about local transport history at the Ipswich Transport Museum. Dance enthusiasts can attend performances and workshops at DanceEast, while families might enjoy a visit to Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park. For sightseeing, visit the vibrant Ipswich Waterfront, the historic Christchurch Mansion, or the informative Ipswich Museum. Relax in the picturesque Holywells Park or savour local produce at the Suffolk Food Hall.
For a fulfilling visit to Ipswich, three to four days are typically recommended to explore its historic sites, enjoy the waterfront, and experience the local culture.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester to Ipswich.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Leicester and Ipswich
Most Leicester to Ipswich trains use the Leicester to Ipswich station pair, with some services arriving at Derby Road. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Ipswich 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 Ipswich
Which Leicester station do trains to Ipswich leave from?
Trains from Leicester to Ipswich 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 Ipswich station do trains from Leicester arrive at?
Trains from Leicester to Ipswich most often arrive at Ipswich. Some services arrive at Derby Road, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Ipswich arrival station.
IpswichIpswich station, Burrell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8AL+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Ipswich from Ipswich city centre
Ipswich is 1 km from Ipswich city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 12, 23, 3, 119, 3E · 7m · £2 · every ~27 min
12, 3, 13, 15, 119, 3E, 23 · 9m · £2 · every ~35 min
111 · 21m
Ipswich train station facilities and services
Ipswich has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Ipswich.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich. ATMs are available at Ipswich.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Ipswich.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ipswich: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Ipswich: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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.
Derby RoadDerby Road station, Derby Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 8DN
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby Road from Ipswich city centre
Derby Road is 2 km from Ipswich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainIpswich - Felixstowe · 11m · £4 · every ~2 min
Bus5, 5E · 12m · every ~13 min
Derby Road train station facilities and services
Derby Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Derby Road.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Derby Road: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Derby Road: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Derby Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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.
Most popular train connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ipswich and Leicester
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