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The cheapest and fastest trains from Reading to Leicester
Showing times and prices for 31 May
Cheapest price
£51
Average price
£82
Fastest journey
2 h 23 m
Average duration
2 h 26 m
Trains per day
13
Distance
132 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Reading to Leicester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Leicester will cost around £82 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £51.
Fast trains
To travel from Reading to Leicester you need to make at least 2 changes.
W35211+
Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+
W7094710:452h26Reading station (RDG)13:11Leicester station (LEI)£511One-way2 changes- W70927+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+
C375358:233h03Reading station (RDG)11:26Leicester station (LEI)£511One-way2 changes - C21768+W35438+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International14:352h30Reading station (RDG)17:05Leicester station (LEI)£511One-way2 changes
- C00165+W70952+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International11:462h23Reading station (RDG)14:09Leicester station (LEI)£511One-way2 changes
- W70924+C50038+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International11:162h38Reading station (RDG)13:54Leicester station (LEI)£511One-way2 changes
- C00165+W70952+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International11:462h23Reading station (RDG)14:09Leicester station (LEI)£511One-way2 changes
- J86164+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+C0123313:112h25Reading station (RDG)15:36Leicester station (LEI)£1081One-way2 changes
- W35211+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+W7094710:452h26Reading station (RDG)13:11Leicester station (LEI)£511One-way2 changes
- C21764+C02507+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International13:412h28Reading station (RDG)16:09Leicester station (LEI)£601One-way2 changes
- W70963+C02510+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International14:112h29Reading station (RDG)16:40Leicester station (LEI)£1081One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Reading to Leicester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £42. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 56m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £42, and a train costs an average of £59.
Distance: 132 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£98 Average Price | £45 Average Price Cheapest |
2h 26m Average total duration Fastest 1h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 44m Average total duration 4h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Reading to Leicester train times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Leicester trains for tomorrow, Sunday 31 May. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+W70927+C37535 | 8:23 Reading station (RDG) | 3h03 | 11:26 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| C06050+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+C21138 | 9:11 Reading station (RDG) | 2h45 | 11:56 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| W35373+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+C21560 | 9:29 Reading station (RDG) | 2h56 | 12:25 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| W70921+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+C01231 | 10:10 Reading station (RDG) | 2h43 | 12:53 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| W35211+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+W70947 | 10:45 Reading station (RDG) | 2h26 | 13:11 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| W70924+C50038+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 11:16 Reading station (RDG) | 2h38 | 13:54 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| C00165+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+W70952 | 11:46 Reading station (RDG) | 2h23 | 14:09 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| W70930+C33106+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 12:20 Reading station (RDG) | 2h40 | 15:00 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| C00123+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+C21777 | 12:32 Reading station (RDG) | 2h37 | 15:09 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| C01233+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+J86164 | 13:11 Reading station (RDG) | 2h25 | 15:36 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| C21764+C02507+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 13:41 Reading station (RDG) | 2h28 | 16:09 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| W70963+C02510+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 14:11 Reading station (RDG) | 2h29 | 16:40 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
| C21768+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+W35438 | 14:35 Reading station (RDG) | 2h30 | 17:05 Leicester station (LEI) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Leicester 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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31 May
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Why should you book Reading to Leicester trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as CrossCountry or Cross Country offer trains services from Reading to Leicester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading to Leicester.
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 CrossCountry or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Leicester.
- 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 Reading to Leicester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Reading to Leicester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Leicester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Reading to Leicester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Reading to Leicester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £59 but you can travel from only £42 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 02:24, the last at 22:52. The fastest train covers the 132 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £42
Distance 132 km |
Average train duration 1h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £59 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 14m |
First train 2:24 |
Last train 22:52 |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £42
Train companies: East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country from Reading to Leicester trainsEast Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Reading and Leicester from £42. 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
2h 14m
Cheapest Price
£66
East Midlands Railway frequency
5 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
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
2h 36m
Cheapest Price
£59
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 20m
Cheapest Price
£153
Cross Country frequency
23 a day
FAQs: Reading to Leicester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Leicester 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 Leicester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Reading to Leicester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £59, while the average price tends to be around £98.
The train journey from Reading to Leicester covers a distance of 132 km and takes approximately 2h 14m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Reading to Leicester is 132 km.
The first train from Reading to Leicester leaves at 2:24.
The last train from Reading to Leicester departs at 22:52.
Trains from Reading to Leicester run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Reading to Leicester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Reading to Leicester.
To get from Reading to Leicester, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Reading to Leicester.
The train station in Reading that goes to Leicester is Reading station (RDG), and it arrives at Leicester station (LEI).
The cheapest way to get from Reading to Leicester is by coach, costing approximately £42.
Booking trains from Reading to Leicester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Reading to Leicester primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, offering views of the English countryside, fields, and towns, but it is not renowned for particularly scenic landscapes compared to more rural routes.
A day trip from Reading to Leicester is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 14m. Trains run 6 times per day for this 132 km journey.
Two to three days is typically enough to explore Leicester's key attractions, including the King Richard III Visitor Centre, Leicester Cathedral, and the National Space Centre, while also enjoying the local culture and dining.
Yes, you can take the train from Reading to Leicester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Reading and Leicester
Reading
Leicester
The major train station for departures in Reading is Reading. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading for your trip from Reading to Leicester.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 22:45 Saturday 05:30 - 22:45 Sunday 07:15 - 22:45 Please note: Reservations and tickets requiring reservations are sold at the following times only: Mon - Sat 08:00 - 20:00 and Sun 09:00 - 20:00
Parking
- Car Park: Multi Storey Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: platforms can be reached via lift and bridge, ticket office is step free.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Accessible low-level Pay Phone is available at the station main concourse. Please request staff assistance if you need to.
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxi are available at the station entrance. please request staff assistance if you need to.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office and at the car park.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets are located on Station Platforms and in The Brunel Arcade building
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front of station, underground short stay car park and long stay car park.
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for Reading
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the North side of the station
Amenities at train station
AccessibilityAmenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotel
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:25 - 12:55 Saturday 07:00 - 13:30 Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Step free Category C - This station does not have step free access to operational platforms
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please call our free help line for assistance.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: No
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Platforms 2/3
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Adjacent entrance to station
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Tilehurst
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses starting/terminate at Tilehurst: Station forecourt All other buses: A329 Oxford Road bus stops near the station
The major train station for arrivals in Leicester is Leicester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leicester for your journey to Leicester from Reading.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:20 - 22:30 Saturday 05:20 - 22:30 Sunday 07:15 - 22:30
Parking
- Car Park: Short stay car park
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
- 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
- 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 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
Most popular train connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Leicester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Leicester and Reading
Most popular train connections to Leicester
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