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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Leicester

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London Waterloo East to Leicester by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Leicester? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 27 mins, covering approximately 89 miles (143 kilometres). With roughly 48 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £15.20, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Leicester Key Stats

Arrival Station

Leicester

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

48trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 7 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:09 / 00:42

Distance

89miles
(143 km)

5 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£15.20

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Leicester by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Leicester – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Leicester? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 27 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 7 mins. With approximately 48 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 89-mile (143 km) route usually requires just one change, with Southeastern, CrossCountry, Thameslink, East Midlands Railway providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £15.20, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Leicester!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Leicester

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East to Leicester? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between London Waterloo East and Leicester by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Leicester by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 27 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 7 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Leicester by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Leicester is 3hrs 7 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Leicester cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Leicester can start from as little as £15.20 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Leicester?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Leicester vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 48 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:09, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:42.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Leicester?

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo East and Leicester typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Leicester?

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo East and Leicester can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Leicester by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between London Waterloo East and Leicester. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Leicester, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from London Waterloo East to Leicester?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Leicester. However, there are 48 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Leicester?

Southeastern, CrossCountry, Thameslink and East Midlands Railway are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Leicester.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Leicester?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Leicester, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are London Waterloo East to Leicester Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Leicester on Saturday 3rd May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Saturday 3rd May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
07:28 London Waterloo East10:36 Leicester2 changesDartford
London St Pancras International
3 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
07:42 London Waterloo East10:49 Leicester2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
3 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
07:58 London Waterloo East11:05 Leicester2 changesDartford
London St Pancras International
3 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
08:28 London Waterloo East11:36 Leicester2 changesDartford
London St Pancras International
3 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
08:42 London Waterloo East11:49 Leicester2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
3 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
08:58 London Waterloo East12:06 Leicester2 changesDartford
London St Pancras International
3 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
09:28 London Waterloo East12:36 Leicester2 changesDartford
London St Pancras International
3 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
09:42 London Waterloo East12:49 Leicester2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
3 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
09:58 London Waterloo East13:05 Leicester2 changesDartford
London St Pancras International
3 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
10:28 London Waterloo East13:36 Leicester2 changesDartford
London St Pancras International
3 hrs 8 mins Get Tickets
10:42 London Waterloo East13:49 Leicester2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
3 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
10:58 London Waterloo East14:05 Leicester2 changesDartford
London St Pancras International
3 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Leicester journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from London Waterloo East to Leicester start from as little as £15.20

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from London Waterloo East to Leicester start from £75.00 one way, or £77.70 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from London Waterloo East to Leicester are available for £108.50 one way, or £202.50 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

Everything you need to know about Leicester Station

Welcome to Leicester Train Station

Leicester Train Station is more than just a stop on your journey—it's a gateway to historical charm and modern delights of the city. Situated right in the heart of Leicester, this station is a bustling hub of activity, offering a seamless connection for travelers heading in and out. Whether you're a seasoned commuter or a first-time visitor, Leicester Station ensures a smooth travel experience with all the facilities you might need. Before diving into the grandeur of Leicester itself, the station offers a taste of the city's hospitality and infrastructure.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Leicester Train Station takes pride in its comprehensive facilities designed to make passengers feel at ease. For those purchasing tickets, the station offers a well-staffed ticket office open Monday to Saturday from 5:20 am to 10:30 pm, and on Sundays from 7:15 am to 10:30 pm. Additionally, there are accessible ticket machines available to ensure everyone's convenience. Smartcard holders can validate their cards at this station, making it a tech-friendly place for your travels.

The station prioritizes accessibility, providing step-free access across all platforms and key facilities, which is of tremendous help for wheelchair users and those needing extra assistance. Heated waiting rooms, seated areas, and a first-class lounge offer a cozy place to relax while waiting for your train. Despite this, the station lacks accessible toilets, which is something to bear in mind when planning your visit.

For those who enjoy a bit of shopping or grabbing a quick bite, there are refreshment facilities, ATMs, and shopping options within the station. Although there isn't a currency exchange, free Wi-Fi and payphones are available to keep you connected. Regarding security, both the station and its parking facilities are under CCTV surveillance, providing peace of mind while you're on the move.

Getting Around: Transport Links

Navigating through and beyond Leicester is made easy thanks to the station's integrated transport connections. Local buses and taxis are readily available right outside the station front, ensuring onward travel is straightforward. For those flying out, there's a regular Skylink service linking St Margaret's Bus Station to East Midlands Airport. Even when disruptions arise, a Rail Replacement Service is in place, ensuring your journey continues without a hitch.

Where Can You Travel From Leicester?

Leicester boasts connections to a myriad of destinations. Whether you're heading to the capital with trains to London St Pancras International or delving into the vibrant city of Nottingham, your journey starts here. Explore nearby hubs like Birmingham New Street or enjoy the charm of Market Harborough and Loughborough. Feeling adventurous? Venture further on to Sheffield, Manchester Piccadilly, or even Coventry.

This station is a key point on the East Midlands Railway, making it highly accessible for those looking to explore different corners of the UK. Its strategic location means you can embark on journeys to both northern gems and southern spectacles with ease.

In Closing

Leicester Train Station is not just a means to get from point A to B. It's a starting point for adventures, a rendezvous spot for business trips, and a site for discovering new places. With its modern amenities catering to the needs of diverse travelers, it makes the station experience as enjoyable and efficient as possible. Whether you're planning a visit to the dynamic Leicester or further afield, traveling by train ensures that leisurely exploration and punctual commutes are part of your journey. Making your travel arrangements from Leicester Station guarantees a gratifying start. Ready to travel? Leicester awaits.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East