- Must visit
The Harris
Major city museum and library in a landmark building, known for art, history and regular exhibitions in the Harris Quarter.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Leicester to Preston
Showing times and prices for 22 Aug
Cheapest price
£93
Average price
£93
Fastest journey
3 h 9 m
Average duration
3 h 9 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Preston will cost around £93 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £93.
Fast trains
To travel from Leicester to Preston you need to make at least 2 changes.
G01047+
W33782+
G895778:163h09Leicester station (LEI)11:25Preston station (PRE)£931One-way2 changes
- G01047+W33782+G895778:163h09Leicester station (LEI)11:25Preston station (PRE)£931One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Leicester to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 11m. 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 £23, and a train costs an average of £66.
Distance: 164 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£79 Average Price | £32 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 41m Average total duration Fastest 2h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 44m Average total duration 5h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg 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 Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Preston trains for today, Friday 21 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W33967 · W34043+G00988 | Delayed 20:30 20:50Leicester station (LEI) | 2h11 | 23:01 Preston station (PRE) | 2 changes | |
| W34091+G00992 | Delayed 21:16 21:50Leicester station (LEI) | 1h56 | 23:46 Preston station (PRE) | 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 Preston 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.
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22 Aug
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23 Aug
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24 Aug
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25 Aug
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Why should you book Leicester to Preston trains with Omio?
West Midlands Trains as well as Avanti West Coast, Lumo, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Leicester to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs West Midlands Trains?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for West Midlands Trains, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Lumo, east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Preston.
- 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 West Midlands Trains with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Lumo, east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Leicester to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £66 but you can travel from only £23 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:23, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 164 km distance in 3h 7m.
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 £23
Distance 164 km |
Average train duration 2h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price £66 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 7m |
First train 5:23 |
Last train 23:56 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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 £23
Train companies: West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, Lumo, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country from Leicester to Preston trainsWest Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, Lumo, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Leicester and Preston from £23. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 29m
Cheapest Price
£44
West Midlands Trains frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
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 Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Price
£66
Avanti West Coast 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
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
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 12m
Cheapest Price
£74
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 47m
Cheapest Price
£53
east_midlands_trains frequency
9 a day
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 56m
Cheapest Price
£144
Cross Country frequency
7 a day
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
The Egypt Centre
Museum on the University of Central Lancashire campus with Egyptology, archaeology and world cultures collections in a compact gallery.
- Recommended
Ribble Steam Railway and Museum
Volunteer-run transport museum at Ribble Steam Railway, featuring Preston’s industrial and rail heritage with locomotives and exhibits.
- Must visit
Avenham Park
Historic city park with terraces, paths and river views. A favourite for walks, photography and access to nearby Miller Park.
- Recommended
Miller Park
Landscaped Victorian park beside the River Ribble, appreciated for open lawns, flower displays and peaceful links to city-centre walks.
- Recommended
Preston Docklands
Regenerated docklands area with marina views, public art and waterside paths, popular for an easy modern contrast to the historic centre.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
A buttery shortcrust pie filled with potatoes and onions. It is Preston and Lancashire’s best-known savoury bake, tied to local mill and farming traditions.
- Vegetarian
Simnel Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and topped with almond paste. It is a classic Lancashire celebration cake still eaten across Preston.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
A crumbly, mild white cheese from Lancashire often made in creamy, tasty and crumbly layers. It reflects the county’s long dairy heritage.
263 Restaurant
Stylish modern restaurant serving British and European plates with cocktails. Good for a polished dinner in central Preston.
Angelo's
Established local spot for Neapolitan-style pizza and Italian comfort food in a friendly, informal setting.
The Continental
Traditional city-centre pub known for cask ales and hearty British dishes in a historic, relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Preston is moderate by UK standards, with cheaper stays and dining than Manchester or London, while local buses, rail and casual meals remain manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- 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
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Preston Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.50
To the city centre
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- Most local buses in Preston support contactless Tap and Go; fares are capped at the Day Ticket price on participating Preston Bus services.
- Check the operator before boarding. Preston fares and app tickets may differ from other bus operators in the city.
FAQs: Leicester to Preston train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Leicester to Preston can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £66, while the average price tends to be around £79.
The train journey from Leicester to Preston covers a distance of 164 km and takes approximately 3h 7m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Leicester to Preston is 164 km.
The first train from Leicester to Preston leaves at 5:23.
The last train from Leicester to Preston departs at 23:56.
Trains from Leicester to Preston run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Leicester to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Leicester to Preston.
To get from Leicester to Preston, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Leicester to Preston.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Preston is Leicester station (LEI), and it arrives at Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Preston is by coach, costing approximately £23.
Booking trains from Leicester to Preston 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 Preston offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, including views of the rolling countryside and charming towns, making it a pleasant and occasionally scenic route.
A day trip from Leicester to Preston is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 7m. However, trains run 6 times per day, covering the 164 km.
To fully explore Preston's key attractions, such as the Harris Museum, Avenham and Miller Parks, and the Ribble Steam Railway, a stay of two to three days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Leicester to Preston.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Leicester and Preston
Most Leicester to Preston trains use the Leicester to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Preston 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 Preston
Which Leicester station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Leicester to Preston 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 Preston station do trains from Leicester arrive at?
Trains from Leicester to Preston most often arrive at Preston. Some services arrive at Lostock Hall, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Preston arrival station.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · £8 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Leicester
Most popular train connections to Preston
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