Students! Get 15% off your first app booking and 5% off all future trips.

Southampton to Leicester train with South Western Railway

Sat 24 Jan
+ Add return
South Western Railway
CrossCountry
East Midlands Trains
Cross Country
Great Western Rail
1,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
CrossCountry
East Midlands Trains
Cross Country
Great Western Rail
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Leicester

Showing times and prices for 25 Jan

Cheapest price

£53

Average price

£74

Fastest journey

3 h 59 m

Average duration

4 h 25 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

194 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southampton to Leicester will cost around £74 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £53.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Southampton for Leicester 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 194 km distance in an average of 4 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 59 m .

The slowest trains will take 5 h 12 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.

East Midlands Trains
09:154h17
Southampton
13:32Leicester
£531One-way
0 changes
East Midlands Trains
08:254h31
Southampton
12:56Leicester
£631One-way
0 changes
South Western Railway
07:263h59
Southampton
11:25Leicester
£721One-way
0 changes
East Midlands Trains
05:555h12
Southampton
11:07Leicester
£851One-way
0 changes
CrossCountry
14:154h07
Southampton
18:22Leicester
£981One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Southampton to Leicester

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Leicester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 58m. 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 £13, and a train costs an average of £52.

Distance: 194 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach

£90

Average Price

£18

Average Price

Cheapest

3h 28m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 30m

Average total duration

5h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

South Western Railway

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

Southampton to Leicester train times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Leicester trains for tomorrow, Sunday 25 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 16:04
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
east_midlands_railway05:55 Southampton
5h12
11:07 Leicester0 changesdirect
south_west_trains07:26 Southampton
3h59
11:25 Leicester0 changesdirect
east_midlands_railway08:25 Southampton
4h31
12:56 Leicester0 changesdirect
east_midlands_railway09:15 Southampton
4h17
13:32 Leicester0 changesdirect
cross_country14:15 Southampton
4h07
18:22 Leicester0 changesdirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Southampton 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.

Sun
25 Jan
Mon
26 Jan
Tue
27 Jan
Wed
28 Jan
Thu
29 Jan
Fri
30 Jan
Sat
31 Jan

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southampton to Leicester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southampton to Leicester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £52 but you can travel from only £13 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:41, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 194 km distance in 3h 35m.

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 £13
Distance
194 km
Average train duration
2h 58m
Cheapest ticket price
£52
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 35m
First train
04:41
Last train
22:15
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 £13

Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry, East Midlands Trains, Cross Country from Southampton to Leicester trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry, East Midlands Trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Southampton and Leicester from £13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

South Western Railway

About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
£53
South Western Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
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
3h 36m
Cheapest Price
£54
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

East Midlands Trains

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
3h 49m
Cheapest Price
£39
East Midlands Trains frequency
2 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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
£191
Cross Country frequency
26 a day

FAQs: Southampton to Leicester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Southampton to Leicester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £52, while the average price tends to be around £90.
The train journey from Southampton to Leicester covers a distance of 194 km and takes approximately 3h 35m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Southampton to Leicester is 194 km.
The first train from Southampton to Leicester leaves at 4:41.
The last train from Southampton to Leicester departs at 22:15.
Trains from Southampton to Leicester run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Southampton to Leicester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Leicester.
To get from Southampton to Leicester, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Southampton to Leicester.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Leicester is Southampton Central (SOU), and it arrives at Leicester station (LEI).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Leicester is by coach, costing approximately £13.
Booking trains from Southampton 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 Southampton to Leicester offers varied scenery, including glimpses of the countryside, small towns, and urban landscapes. While not considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK, it provides a pleasant view of England's diverse environments.
A day trip from Southampton to Leicester is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 35m. Trains run 6 times per day over a distance of 194 km.
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 Southampton to Leicester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Southampton and Leicester

Southampton
Leicester
The major train station for departures in Southampton is Southampton Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Southampton Central for your trip from Southampton to Leicester.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 20:45 Saturday 06:00 - 20:45 Sunday 06:30 - 20:45
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Premium-downside
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Yes outside Platform 4 exit
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details
  • 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 in the Waiting Rooms on Platforms 1 and 4. The National key toilets are located on Platforms 1 and 4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: All platforms. Waiting rooms are heated and seating complies with Code of Practice.
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Platform 1 - 200 spaces Platform 4 - 44 spaces Outside Platform 4 entrance - 4 spaces Outside Platform 1 entrance - A new bike hut with 140 two tier spaces
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Southampton Central
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement bus service goes from the north side (Blechynden Terrace) during engineering works. Overnight onward transport goes from the South side (West Quay side)
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 20:00 Saturday 05:45 - 20:00 Sunday 07:45 - 20:10
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
5 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Upside and Multi-Storey
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Yes
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Waiting Area on Platform 1. The National key toilets are located in the Waiting Area on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Inside booking hall.
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Car park and platform 2
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Southampton Airport Parkway
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Through Journeys: Station Forecourt Bus Stop off Wide Lane (A335) Terminating Journeys: Car Park at Eastleigh end, off Wide Lane (A335)
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
4 km
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for Redbridge
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: To Totton / Romsey: Redbridge Roundabout Bus Stop (Southampton side of Roundabout on A33 slip road) To Southampton: Redbridge School Bus Stop (Southampton side of Roundabout on A33 slip road)
HomeTrainsTrain Times to Leicester Southampton to Leicester train

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone